One of the most common eye problems among animals is injury to
the cornea (KOHR-nee-uh), the eye's transparent outer layer.
This may occur if the eye is scratched, when bits of grass
become lodged in the eye, or foreign matter blows into the eye.
Signs of corneal irritation include a red, watery eye; swelling;
and pawing at the eye. Minor irritation can often be treated by
flushing the eye with a solution of one teaspoon salt dissolved
in a cup of purified, room- temperature water. Use a cotton ball
to squeeze a stream into the eye until the solution flows out.
If the eye doesn't improve within a day, have a veterinarian
take a look. When damage is severe, the animal will probably
keep the injured eye closed. In such cases, see a veterinarian
right away. Prompt treatment can prevent permanent harm. Other
eye injuries may involve trauma with a sharp object, with
surgery needed to retain vision. In small, flat-faced dog breeds
like the pug, a blunt trauma to the head can actually cause the
eyeball to dislodge f