What are some of the signs that my dog might have an eye infection or disease?
If your dog is squinting or if there's a lot of drainage from the inside corners of the eye or if the eyes look red or cloudy, those are all indications that something's going on. Sometimes, your dogs will frankly just rub against things or scratch them with their paws. They're trying to tell you, "Hey, something's irritating my eyes and I need some help."
What are some of the causes for eye infections and diseases in dogs?
Sometimes it's just trauma because dogs like to investigate. They like to stick their heads into things that they shouldn't, like when chasing a rabbit. Other times, it can be typical things like viruses, bacteria, or occasionally even fungi. Sometimes we'll see fungal infections of the eye. The most common issue, though, is dogs putting their head somewhere they shouldn't, resulting in what's called a corneal ulcer.
What are the most common dog eye care issues you address in the clinic?
The number one issue for dogs is a corneal ulcer, which occurs when they scrape the cornea. It's very uncomfortable, causing squinting and watering of the eyes. They can also have issues like cataracts, conjunctivitis, or a prolapsed tear gland called a cherry eye. Sometimes, dogs have entropion, where the eyelids have too much skin and roll in, or ectropion, where the skin is too saggy. Both of these require surgical correction.
What eye problems in dogs are considered emergencies and need immediate medical attention?
Obvious squinting, a cloudy cornea, and a lot of discharge are signs of a serious issue. Sometimes, it might look like the eye is melting, similar to an ice cream cone. These conditions require immediate attention.
Are certain dog breeds at a higher risk for eye issues?
It varies. Generally, smaller dog breeds tend to have more issues with cherry eye. Breeds like Shar-Peis and St. Bernards have more issues with entropion and ectropion, which can be corrected surgically. Hunting dogs are more prone to corneal ulcers due to their activities.
Is there a dog eyesight test that can be done to assess my dog's vision?
We can't ask dogs to read a chart, but we can shine a light in their eyes to see if the optic nerve responds correctly. We can also examine the retina and its vessels. At home, you can observe if your dog can track things like a Frisbee or a ball. There's no direct test like a vision chart, but we assess vision indirectly.
Will my dog need to see a specialist for an eye injury?
It depends on the severity of the issue. Severe melting corneal ulcers require a specialist, but typical corneal ulcers can be handled in the clinic. Surgeries for entropion, ectropion, and cherry eye are done in-house. However, cataract surgeries are referred to a veterinary ophthalmologist.
What can I do to care for my dog's eyes at home?
You can buy wipes similar to those used for toddlers to clean the eyes. Eye irrigation solutions are also available over the counter. These are helpful for immediate care, especially for hunting dogs in the field, until you can visit a vet.
Is there anything that I can use to protect my dog's eyes?
Yes, there are goggles available that look like swim goggles for dogs. They are used for therapy laser treatments and can also be used for hunting activities. These can be found at hunting stores like Dick's Sporting Goods, Cabela's, or Bass Pro Shops. They provide a protective layer for the eyes, but the dog needs to tolerate wearing them.
How can I clean my dog's eyes at home?
There are specific wipes available for cleaning, similar to cleaning towelettes. You can also use contact lens or eye irrigation solutions to clean the eyes. These measures are temporary until you can have the issue evaluated by a vet.
If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (402) 489-0501, or you can email us at staff@vhvet.com. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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