Eye Drops

[MyDogBitz]

I never thought to desensitize my dog to an eye dropper. He needs these drops to fix the scratch on his eye. He absolutely, positively hates the eye dropper and loses his shit the second he sees it. I've never actually seen him this pissed off at something.

I'm hesitant to push the issue because of how adamant he is in his protest. I asked the vet for an alternative treatment like an eye wash or a gel, (something I can apply quickly) but his only idea was a sedative. I'm not giving my dog a sedative three times a day - plus I don't really think it would help without being over-the-top strong - the dogs motor is other worldly.

I don't have the time to teach him to accept the eye dropper because he needs his treatment now, but obviously this is something I need to work on.

I'm open to any and all ideas.

 

[Andre]

I've had success putting the dog into a sit, I go behind and put my knees on either side of their back on the ground (so I am either sitting on my knees or sitting on my toes with knees on either side). It basically looks like I am hugging my dog from behind. I use my knees and squeeze a bit to keep their lower body in place to avoid frantic movement. I put my arm along their chest and hold their muzzle up. I comfort the dog and give some treats (maybe even a spoon of peanut butter to keep them a little distracted while licking), then pull the drops out and go as quick as possible. Don't let him see the drops until the last moment, don't even let him see you go near wherever they are stored.

I found this picture online of basically the exact position.


This has worked for me, probably not the best way to do it but it's worked in a pinch.

 

[MyDogBitz]

I've had success putting the dog into a sit, I go behind and put my knees on either side of their back on the ground (so I am either sitting on my knees or sitting on my toes with knees on either side). It basically looks like I am hugging my dog from behind. I use my knees and squeeze a bit to keep their lower body in place to avoid frantic movement. I put my arm along their chest and hold their muzzle up. I comfort the dog and give some treats (maybe even a spoon of peanut butter to keep them a little distracted while licking), then pull the drops out and go as quick as possible. Don't let him see the drops until the last moment, don't even let him see you go near wherever they are stored.

I found this picture online of basically the exact position.
View attachment 289

This has worked for me, probably not the best way to do it but it's worked in a pinch.

Thanks. Gives me something to think about.