What causes the white of the eye (conjunctiva) to become bloodshot?

The conjunctive of one of Butter's eyes has been bloodshot for 1-2 weeks. It doesn't seem to bother him...he does have a bit of crust that forms. The other eye is a bit bloodshot. Over the past 2 days I have noticed that sometimes his eyes are whiter and look almost fine and then at another time in the day they may be bloodshot again.

Any ideas of what it may be, anyone? Thanks

0 members like this

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Sarah ♥'s Sadie on February 18, 2009 at 3:27pm

It could just be conjuctivitis like humans get. He might have some allergies that are acting up. Since it has been going on that long without him "complaining" I doubt it is a virus or pink eye.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Butter on February 18, 2009 at 5:51pm

Thanks Sarah.

I talked to the vet and he thinks it is must likely an irritant, where it comes and goes. We have had tons of snowstorms; apparently dogs love to burrow their heads in snowbanks and the ice crystals can cause irritation to their eyes. We haven't seen Butter do this but tonight I caught him putting his head (and eyes) to the ground on top of the snow and then he switched sides. Sure enough after he was inside for awhile, both eyes were red. So maybe it is the snow...