Eyes: squinting, discharge, and sudden changes
Squinting is how pets show eye pain. Most causes are small if they are seen within a day.
What squinting means
Squinting is how dogs and cats show eye pain. It can mean a scratch on the surface, something caught under the lid, or pressure inside the eye. Those look alike from outside and are treated differently, so a squint is worth a visit within a day, not a week.
Discharge colors
Clear and watery is often irritation, dust, or a blocked tear duct. Thick, yellow, or green is often infection. Rust-colored staining under the eyes of a light-coated dog is usually tears and is not a problem on its own.
Older pets and sudden blindness
A blue-gray haze in an older dog's eyes is often normal aging of the lens, and those dogs still see. A sudden change in sight is different and worth a visit the same day.
A guide, not a diagnosis. If you are not sure, call. We would rather you ask.
Keep reading
Ears: head shaking, smells, and when a tilt is urgent
Most ear trouble is yeast, bacteria, or mites. A swab tells us which, in ten minutes.
Mouth and teeth: what bad breath usually means
Bad breath usually means sore gums, and most of the problem sits below the gumline.
Skin and coat: itch, hot spots, and overgrooming
Itch always has a cause. We rule out fleas and mites first, because they are quick to find.