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Dog's eye injured in fight, seems better. When should I take him to vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 6 months and 16 days old | 16 lbs

Maps got into a skuffle with a larger dog and his left eye for injured. At first it was squinty and was draining a little liquid (more brown than blood red). It started to improve rather quickly (his eye opens almost completely, no more liquid, and just a little redness and irritation). His behavior has not changed, still playful and moving around as usual). I can’t see any visible abrasions in his eye. Should I bring him to the 24 hour vet immediately? Any signs to look out for? Clean his eye?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 26th, 2018

Hello. If there is no squinting or discharge, then he is probably OK to just observe the eye tonight. You do not want to put anything in the eye. If the redness is worse in the morning, or there is any change to the cornea, then please see your vet in the morning. Of course, if Maps seems at all uncomfortable with the eye, or anything else concerns you tonight, please do not wait & have Maps looked at tonight. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 14th, 2017

    It can be very difficult to evaluate an eye based on a photo but it appears that there is a puncture or ulceration of the cornea in the corner of Rocky's eye. I would recommend taking him in to the vet as soon as possible. The vet will examine the eye, may want to put a special stain on the eye to check the rest of the cornea, may want to test the eye pressure, and can prescribe antibiotics and pain medication if needed. I would not delay taking him in because the eye can worsen quite quickly.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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