TIPS FOR MEDICATING THE EYE

1. Always apply medication to a clean eye:
Ophthalmic solutions (eye drops) and ointments should always be applied to a clean eye. Mucus and discharge that is adherent to the eyelid, eyeball, or dried on the hair around the eye, should be rinsed away using an over-the-counter eyewash solution before medications are applied. Debris that is dried or adhered to the hair or skin aournd the eye should be moistened with an eyewash and allowed to soak for several minutes before it is removed. A soft material (wet cotton ball) should be used-avoid using of an abrasive cloth (washcloth) to remove debris from the eyelids or surrounding area.

2. Order to apply different eye medications:
If more than one eye medication is being administered, the order of applying eye medications is from the most liquid (solutions/eye drops) to the least liquid (ointments). If more than one solution (eye drop) is being administered to the eye at any given time, allow at least five minutes between each medication. If solutions (eye drops) and ointments are scheduled at the same time, solutions should be administered at least five minutes before ointments are applied. When more than one ointment is being applied, they can be administered at the same time.

3. Treatment schedule:
Often times, long-term success is directly dependent upon a strict medication schedule. A treatment schedule is based on a 24-hour period of time. It may be necessary to medicate your pet's eye(s) every four or every six hours. Try to adhere to the scheduled treatment schedule as much as possible.

4. On the day of your next appointment:
Be certain to apply eye medications to your pet's eye(s) on the day of your next appointment unless otherwise instructed. The ophthalmologist will be evaluating how the eye is responding to the medication(s). Some medications effect the eye for only a short period of time after they are applied. It is much more important that the ophthalmologist evaluate your pet's eye after it has been medicated, rather than how it appears when not medicated.

5. Important points to remember:
· Do not use medication prescribed for one pet on another pet
· Remember which is the right eye and which is the left eye (see photos below)
· Animals (and humans) often rub at the eye immediately after it is medicated-this is normal
· If your pet is squinting, appears uncomfortable, or if excessive redness is noted, call immediately
· If you have any questions concerning medications or instructions please contact us