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Behavior: How to Apply Eye Drops to a Dog

The thought of administering eye drops to your furry friend might raise your stress levels but fear not – with the right approach, it can be a breeze for both you and your pet. Whether you're at home or in a clinic setting, low-stress handling techniques can make this task much smoother. Here's a step-by-step guide based on expert advice to help you master the art of applying eye drops with ease.

Preparation is Key

Before you begin, gather everything you need:

  1. Find a comfortable spot for both you and your pet. This could be a table, a chair, your lap (if your pet is comfortable there), or simply the floor for larger dogs.
  2. Gather positive reinforcement items like treats or a toy to keep your pet engaged.
  3. Have the eye drops or medication at the ready.

Getting Set Up

Ensure your posture is upright to avoid any discomfort and stress signals. Your pet will pick up on your mood, so staying calm is crucial. Position your pet seated or standing, looking at you or at a right angle. For large dogs, they can rest their chin on your leg, the couch, or a chair to minimize downward motion. You can teach them these behaviors or lure them with treats.

Administering the Eye Drops

Now, let's break down the process step by step:

  1. Uncap the eye drop bottle or ointment tube.
  2. Position the bottle near your pet's eye, as shown in the example.
  3. Hold the bottle or tube horizontally or tilted up to prevent dripping.
  4. Approach your pet's head from underneath and behind the ear, mimicking a petting motion.
  5. Rest the pinky edge of your hand on the dog's head, just behind their eyebrow. This should be slightly outside their peripheral vision.
  6. If your dog seems uneasy with this position, counter-condition by moving your hand closer while offering treats to create a positive association.
  7. For stability, place the target eye away from you.
  8. As you're slightly above your dog, use a cheerful, high-pitched tone or make a smooching noise to get them to look up. This widens their eyes for the drops.
  9. Gently drop in the eye drops without touching the lid or eye – gravity does the work.
  10. Follow with treats from your other hand or use treats throughout the process if needed.
  11. If you need to apply drops to both eyes, some dogs allow you to shift immediately, while others may need a short break before repeating the process.

With practice, patience, and positive reinforcement, you'll be a pro at administering eye drops without causing stress for you or your beloved pet. By creating a comfortable environment and using gentle techniques, you'll make this routine task a walk in the park. Your pup's bright eyes will thank you!

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