Dog Eye Problems
Cataracts are not the only type of dog eye problem that your pet can develop. Although dog cataracts are considered common in all ages and breeds, other dog eye problems resulting from everything from debris to genetics are common as well. The list of canine eye problems includes diseases and conditions such as: • Cherry Eye • Detached Retina in Dog • Distichiasis • Dog Corneal Ulcer • Dog Entropion • Dog Eye Prosthetic • Dog Glaucoma • Dog Herpes • Goniodysgenesis • Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (Dry Eye) • Pannus in Dogs • Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Dogs • Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Poodles • Progressive Retinal Degeneration in Dogs • Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration (SARD’s) • Uveitis Some canine eye problems are more severe than others, and some may even require removal of the eye. For example, cherry eye or “canine cherry eye” is easily treated through a simple surgical procedure in which a pocket is created for the tear gland and it is put back in position. Cherry eye occurs when the tear gland behind the dog’s third eyelid moves out of position. This gland provides 50% of the dogs tear production, so the condition can cause the dog’s tear production to stop. Fortunately, canine eye problems like cherry eye are not painful to the dog. Surgery for this canine eye problem has a very high success rate. One of the most severe conditions on the list of dog eye problems is dog glaucoma. Canine eye problems such as this can result in vision loss. Dog glaucoma occurs when fluid in the eye does not drain properly causing an increase in pressure. If left untreated, this condition begins to cause the cells in the retina to erode. The end result is vision loss. Initial treatment involves medication and ointments to control the condition. If topical treatments are unsuccessful, surgery is required. It is important to note that this condition can be painful. Symptoms to look out for include lethargy, loss of appetite and redness. To avoid dog eye problems such as dog eye infections, dog swollen eye, and common puppy eye problems including conditions resulting from outdoor debris, it’s important to avoid areas filled with excessive amounts of dirt, pollen and unclean bodies of water such as small ponds, rivers, and creeks. To avoid debris-related dog eye infection indoors, keep the home free from dust and debris if at all possible. Keep your dog’s head inside of the window when driving, and when shampooing your dog, use the gentlest tear-free shampoos you can find. In addition, keep the fur around the dog’s eyes trim to avoid dog eye problems resulting from trapped dirt or debris in the dog’s coat. Dog eye care such as using protective ointments when bathing your dog or using sprays can also help prevent canine eye problems as well.