Background <p><i>Thelazia callipaeda</i> is a zoonotic vector-borne nematode primarily affecting carnivores, lagomorphs, and humans. Over the past decades, the parasite has expanded across Europe. This report presents the first molecularly confirmed case of canine thelaziosis in Estonia. The findings highlight the urgent need for increased awareness of <i>T. callipaeda</i> among veterinarians, human medical professionals, and pet owners, as this parasite poses an important public health concern.</p> Case presentation <p>A 6-year-old spayed female Swiss White Shepherd, with a recent travel history to several European countries, including the Baltic countries, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, and Sweden, was presented to the Small Animal Clinic of Estonian University of Life Sciences with unilateral ocular discharge and hyperaemia. Ophthalmic examination revealed the presence of motile, threadlike nematodes in the left eye. The treatment involved manual removal of nematodes and oral administration of milbemycin oxime/praziquantel twice with 1 week interval in combination with topical lubrication. Follow-up examinations revealed significant improvement in ocular health, with no further signs of infection. The nematodes were identified as <i>T. callipaeda</i> based on molecular analysis.</p> Conclusions <p>This case highlights the importance of obtaining a comprehensive travel history in veterinary ophthalmology and emphasizes the emerging risk of <i>T. callipaeda</i> in non-endemic regions, especially with increased pet travel. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for successful management. Preventive measures, such as antiparasitic treatment before and during travel, are essential to reduce the risk of transmission. The growing concern of <i>T. callipaeda</i> spread is further supported by previous ecological niche model predictions, suggesting the potential for the vector’s geographic expansion across Europe.</p>