Keeping your dogs eyes healthy and clean looking is important for pet owners. While there are many ways to do this, one way is the appropriate use of boric acid.
Warning
The first thing to consider is what kind of eye problem you are looking at. If your dog has a severe eye infection or swelling, consult your veterinarian. You don't want to blind your dog with an inappropriate treatment.
Benefits
A mild boric acid solution can be a great home remedy for many minor eye problems with dogs. It keeps well or can be made up quickly if needed. It is also inexpensive as a bottle of boric acid will last a very long time as only small amounts are used.
Function
Boric acid has cleaning and healing properties due to the mild acid in it. It occurs naturally in most plants and almost every fruit. When mixed properly it is no different than putting a tea bag or cucumber slice on the eye for soothing relief.
Features
Boric acid comes in powder form. Be certain you ask for medicinal quality boric acid at your pharmacy as it does come in another form used as a poison. When using it always measure with measuring spoons, never kitchen spoons. Also measure your water carefully and be sure it is stirred until it all is dissolved. You do not want to chance a crystal scratching the eye.
Effects
The effects of a properly mixed boric acid eyewash should be fairly quick. Your dogs eyes should start feeling better, and looking better within a couple of days at most. The treatments may be repeated as often as necessary.
Usage
Boil 1 quart of water and add 1 level tbsp. of boric acid. Stir until completely dissolved. When cool, place in a sealable glass container. For use, pour a small amount into a dish, then saturate a cotton ball with the mixture. Wipe the affected eye gently. Do not reuse the cotton ball, always use a fresh one. When finished, dispose of the used solution and store the remainder at room temperature until needed again.
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