What are the common signs of eye issues in dogs?
Most of the common signs owners see at home would be redness or bloodshot eyes, squinting, or pain. Definitely a lot of discharge, such as yellow or green discharge, or watering eyes. Sometimes if they're pawing at the eye, that can indicate it bothers them. Cloudiness or a change in the color of the eye, too. This time of year especially, we see a lot of allergies that cause some eye issues in dogs. Sometimes they just have too much fun and can injure their eyes, either themselves or from vegetation. And then sometimes there are factors affecting the eyes themselves, either that they're prone to genetically or if they grow eyelashes in the wrong spots, making them prone to secondary eye issues.
What are some common eye diseases in dogs?
We see a lot of conjunctivitis, whether it's from allergies or trauma. We definitely see cataracts. Sometimes we see eyelid tumors in dogs. Dry eye is a common disease. I would say those are probably some of the most common.
What are considered eye emergencies in dogs?
Any known or visualized injury to the eye, like a penetrating eye injury, or if we're worried they have a scratch or an ulcer on the eye. Certainly, glaucoma can also be considered an emergency, or if there's sudden vision loss that starts out of nowhere. That would be an emergency too, definitely.
Are there genetic components to eye issues in dogs?
There are definitely some genetic components to eye issues in dogs. For example, glaucoma. There are certain breeds prone, such as beagles, Boston terriers, huskies, and cocker spaniels, just to name a few. An interesting disease called pannus affects German shepherds, who are like the poster children for that disease. You also have things like dry eye, which affects a lot of our short-nosed breeds, like shih tzus, bulldogs, pugs, and cocker spaniels.
How do you test for vision in dogs?
We have rudimentary tests for vision in dogs. Sometimes we shine lights on their eyes to make sure they can detect light, and then we do movements around their face to make sure they can detect movement near their eye to pick up on vision. There are highly specialized function tests with an ophthalmologist that can be done to double-check their vision and the back of the eye.
What is the treatment for dog eye injuries?
It depends on what kind of eye injury and to what extent. Oftentimes, if it's minor or if there's a scratch or abrasion, it will involve topical eye medications to treat that, along with systemic pain medications. It's really important that we keep them from getting at the eye, so I hate to say it, but a cone is necessary to keep them from rubbing at it. If it's really bad, you might deem it necessary to send them to a specialist, like a doggy ophthalmologist, for further treatment.
How much routine eye care do dogs need?
It's dog-to-dog with how much routine care at home they need, if any. Some dogs don't really need much basic eye care at home. Some breeds do, especially our really short-nosed breeds or dogs that have a lot of thick, long hair near their eyes. Usually, I recommend using a really soft cloth and warm water if you're seeing a little bit of discharge or just want to keep that area clean. Your veterinarian might prescribe specific topical wipes or medications that are safe in or around the eye, but I wouldn't reach for non-veterinarian recommended products around the eyes because they can be super sensitive.
At City By The Sea Veterinary Hospital, your pet is our priority. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call our team at (848) 217-5000, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!