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Updated on September 23, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 9 years and 5 months old | 75 lbs
Lake County, northern CA: Our senior black Labrador was nosing in our iris when she suddenly backed out and started rubbing her left eye with her paws. There were no bees, spiders, scorpions, or snakes where she was. There are dried wild oats and small rice grain size burrs. 5 hours later her left upper eyelid was swollen out ½” in a 1” by 2”area. It is tender to the touch. There is no discharge. What is the likely cause and what can we do? All vets are closed and we live in a rural area.
3 Answers

Answered By Juliana, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 24, 2017
Answered By Lauren Barry, BVSc, MRCVS, DVM
Veterinarian
Poor Rio - It could be that the plant material poked under he eyelid and caused the eyelid injury and swelling. carefully lift her eyelid and check if you can see any wound or possible plant material under there (leaf or grass seed) it could also be an allergic reaction to the plant? It may be beneficial to give her some Benadryl at the standard dose.
A compress made by soaking a Teabag in warm water and applied to the swelling will not harm her and may provide a gentle antiseptic to her eye. Take her in to the vet tomorrow if she still has a swelling. If you have an e collar or cone to use overnight, that will help prevent her rubbing her eye.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on October 19, 2017
It looks like Roxy has had some sort of trauma to the cornea of her eye. Maybe a small scratch or puncture. She should see a veterinarian as soon as possible for an exam. She should be prescribed a topical antibiotic for the eye. She may need other treatment but your veterinarian can determine that.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful