5 Common Eye Problems in Dogs

5 Common Eye Problems in Dogs 

Aside from their nose, a dog's eyes are very important. It helps them form images of the world around them and support what they smell. However, there are a lot of diseases that can affect a dog's eyes and prevent them from seeing well.

Here are some of the most common eye diseases in dogs and how they can be remedied.

Cherry Eyes

Every dog has three eyelids, two are visible and an extra one which is usually hidden. This third eyelid is below the inner corner of the eye and where one can find a dog's tear gland.

Like other eyes, this gland should be invisible. However, congenital problems in the ligaments in the eye causes it to pop out and look like a cherry. Usually, both eyes are affected because of this problem.

Surgery is the best way to treat dogs with cherry eye. During the operation, the glands will be reattached to the eyelid and put it back in place. Your dog will take about two weeks to fully recover depending on its age.

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS)

For dogs who have KCS or dry eyes, their tear glands are unable to produce a lot of tears. Tears are very important because it helps clean the eyes from dangerous materials. It also supports corneal tissues. If dogs cannot produce tears, it may lead to eye complications like corneal ulcers.

If the veterinarian sees that the issue is mild, they may recommend artificial tear solutions - like iMed I-Drop vet Gel that is available on our sister e-dispensary website My Animal Dispensary . There are some prescription eye drops that can induce tears available. 

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye suddenly becomes cloudy in color. They prevent light from passing through the eye, affecting your dog's vision dramatically.

Some often mistaken cataracts for lenticular sclerosis, which usually happens when a dog is older. This problem also causes the pupils to become white. However, a veterinarian can differentiate what is affecting your dog through an eye exam.

Surgery is the best way to get rid of cataracts. If it is not possible for your dog, eye drops like Jean-Paul Nutraceutical ColloRX Lanosterol Eye Drop helps to prevent or improve poor vision. 

Glaucoma

Glaucoma occurs when the balance between fluid production and drainage is disrupted within the eye. As a result, your dog's eyes would often look red, their third eyelid visible, have dilated pupils and sometimes, enlarged eyes.

If you suspect that your dog has glaucoma, bring them to your veterinarian. Topical and oral medications will be given as first-aid to reduce inflammation. It will also help absorb fluids and lower its production. Eye supplements  like Jean-Paul Nutraceuticals Vision Regen for Cats & Dogs maybe an alternative treatment

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an eye problem that is caused by the inflammation of a dog's conjunctiva. This often leads to swollen conjunctiva and discomfort.

Treatment for this eye problem varies depending on the cause of the problem. Usually, a sterile saline eye solution is given to remove any material in the eye that causes irritation.

In other cases, antibiotic eye drops are given to dogs. If your pet's condition does not improve within a few days, speak to your vet about it.

Always Ask Your Veterinarian for Help

The eye conditions we cited above are just some of the most common eye problems a dog may have. If you spot a problem with your dog's eyes, bring them to their veterinarian as quickly as possible. The more you delay, the more chances your dog's vision will worsen.