IMPORTANT TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR DOG’S EYES CLEAN & HEALTHY

 

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR DOG’S EYES CLEAN & HEALTHY

There is a myth that dogs have poor vision. While they see the world differently than we do, dog vision is optimized for what their wild ancestors did: hunt. Dogs can detect tiny movements of potential prey from distances that humans would require binoculars to notice. They aren’t as good at seeing fine detail up close, but they use their other senses to fill in any missing information. Dogs have very acute senses of smell and hearing, as any pet parent knows when their dog howls at the ambulance long before any human hears it. These senses more than make up for any lack of visual acuity.

The Anatomy of a Dog’s Eye

Dogs have excellent vision in low-light due to their high number of rod cells. This is aided by a tapetum lucidum, a layer of reflective cells that directs light toward the retina. The tapetum lucidum is what makes animals’ eyes glow in flashlights and headlights. Dogs are red-green color blind but can use cues of brightness to detect differences in shades they can’t see. Cones are the type of cells that provide color vision. Dogs have fewer cone cells than humans do.

Beyond these differences, the eyes of dogs are largely identical to eyes of humans and they develop similar diseases.
The rod cells, cone cells, and tapetum lucidum are part of the retina. The retina is the part of the eye that turns light cues into signals for the brain to interpret as objects. Other important parts of the eye to know are the lens which is responsible for focusing and the cornea which is the clear protective outer surface. The iris is the colored portion of the eye. There are no differences in vision based on the color of the iris.

The eye is a very complicated and sensitive structure, which means that there are many opportunities for things to go wrong. Some are due to breed conformation and other issues are due to age, but very few are truly preventable.

Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs such as Pugs may have eyelids that don’t stay fully closed during sleep. The area that is exposed to air can become dry; known as exposure keratitis,this can lead to ulceration of the cornea. A corneal ulcer is a break in the clear protective coating of the eye. Due to their short noses offering less protection, brachycephalic breeds are also at higher risk from a traumatic corneal ulcer.

Trauma – for example, when your cat tells your dog who’s boss with a swat across the face – can cause a break in the cornea. Traumatic ulcers usually heal well because the eye is healthy before the ulcer develops. For most dogs, once the ulcer heals (usually in about a week), it’s hard to tell it was even there. However, during healing, the ulcer will cause your dog to squint and have a puffy, painful eye. I recommend visiting your veterinarian for medicated ointment; medication will help the healing process and reduce the likelihood of complications such as infection. Some breeds, like Boxers, are more likely to develop complicated ulcers that require veterinary intervention and minor surgery to heal.

Ulcers can also be caused by insufficient tear production, known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). KCS is due to inflammation of the tear-producing structures. Dogs with KCS have thick discharge from their eyes. It looks similar to the material that may build up overnight and be easily wiped away in the morning. In dogs with KCS, there is more material and it can even build up on the eye itself. It can be treated with medicated daily eye drops or ointments.

Age-Related Changes

Some of the diseases of dogs’ eyes are more common in older dogs. For example, lenticular sclerosis is a haziness of the lens that is a normal part of aging. It’s a side note on my physical exam of most of my senior patients. Lenticular sclerosis makes vision more fuzzy.

Cataracts, on the other hand, are a type of crystallization of the lens that prevents light from reaching the retina, causing blindness. Cataracts are more common in dogs with diabetes or in breeds with genetic predispositions (in which case they can develop at any age). Cataracts can be removed and replaced with an artificial lens by a veterinary ophthalmologist.

Diabetes causes other problems in the eye too. Glaucoma, high pressure inside the eye, is most common in diabetic dogs. Glaucoma can be very painful and should be monitored closely and treated by your veterinarian. Uncontrolled or severe glaucoma is a common reason for having to remove a dog’s eye.

Enucleation, or removal of the eye, is a common surgery performed by veterinarians for both dogs and cats (and cows). It seems drastic because we, as humans, rely on our vision for so many everyday activities. In humans, you may not even know if someone you meet has a prosthetic eye – but a dog with only one eye has the other side sewn closed, making it more noticeable.Enucleation can really be the best option for your dog, especially if the eye is blind, painful, or has cancer.

What happens when dogs go blind?

When dogs go blind, you may not notice seemingly obvious signs like bumping into furniture – instead, you might notice a change in behavior. Your dog has a mental map of the places she frequents and can avoid objects with only small visual cues, like outlines and shade. As your dog loses her vision, she may be more anxious in new places or when left alone. Some dogs experience night blindness where they can no longer see in low light. Placing night lights throughout the house is a great way to reduce the anxiety associated with diminishing vision by making night more bright. If you think your dog is blind, talk to your veterinarian. The blindness may be due to other underlying conditions that are treatable, like high blood pressure or tick diseases. Treating these conditions won’t restore your dog’s sight, but they may improve his quality of life.

Treating dog eye conditions with eyedrops

Getting eye drops into your dog’s eye can be a challenge, but it’s important to find a way to get them in as frequently as recommended by your veterinarian. One technique I tried with my parents’ dog was to let her lick from a can of spray cheese while I approached her eyes slowly from the side with the bottle of eye drops. You might find that this positive reinforcement works well for your dog – or you may need another tactic. Dogs with itchy or painful eyes may feel enough relief from the drops that they don’t mind having their eyes medicated. If you need to put multiple drops or ointments into each eye, you might need to bring your dog into the bathroom for a few minutes so that you can more easily hold his head still. For conditions requiring long-term treatment, it’s very important to find a method that works for both you and your dog. I find the “less is more” perspective often does the job; less restraint can be more effective. By the time the dog notices that something happened, it’s over and she can go back to playing.

Your dog’s eyes are worth protecting

Luckily, serious eye problems are rare. But, since any problem is easiest to treat at the first sign, I recommend having your veterinarian look at your dog’s eyes if you have any concerns. Your dog’s eyes are worth protecting. They are an important part of how we communicate with our dogs and how dogs communicate with each other.

Some breeds or dogs are more prone to experiencing eye issues than others, but whether your dog’s issues are frequent or occasional, eye care should always be a part of your at-home care routine.

How to Identify Dog Eye Problems:

It’s important to keep an eye out for occasional or recurrent eye issues, as either can quickly develop into a more serious health concern.

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF EYE ISSUES INCLUDE:

• IRRITATION

If your dog is holding one eye partially or complete shut, or is pawing at his eye, he is experiencing pain and irritation.

• TEAR STAINS

It’s common for light-colored dogs to develop brown tearstains in the lower corners of their eyes. Tearstains are most often caused by the anatomy of their eyes, which makes it difficult for tears to drain normally. Breeds like Chihuahuas and Pekingese with rounded eyes are particularly prone to this problem, as well as breeds with a lot of hair surrounding the eyes.

• EYE BOOGERS

“Eye gunk” can form in the corner of a dog’s eye, making him prone to bacterial infections.

• DIFFICULTY SEEING

If you notice your dog is running into objects or is hesitant or fearful in the dark, he may be having an issue with his sight. Most dogs go blind gradually and learn to cope with their inability to see, but a more sudden loss of sight can create anxiety in your dog. If you suspect a problem with his vision, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Watery Eyes in Dogs

Complications of an ocular nature can vary greatly in a cause. Excessive tearing can result from abnormalities with the eyelids, infection, or diseases of the eye. Resolution of epiphora can involve simple or complex interventions. While epiphora is not breed specific, certain breeds are more predisposed to some ocular conditions. For example, dogs with the anatomical “flattened or squished” face can often have problems related to tear duct drainage.

Epiphora is the medical term for an excessive watery, ocular discharge. Often secondary to a variety of conditions, watery eyes become a problem when accompanied by other symptoms that indicate irritation. Eye conditions can be painful for your pet and should be investigated by a veterinarian without delay.

Symptoms of Watery Eyes in Dogs

Veterinarian treatment is essential when dealing with eye conditions. Disorders of the eye can be extremely uncomfortable for your dog. If you notice or come across any of the symptoms below, contact the veterinary caregiver for an appointment:

• Puffiness around the eye
• Redness of the eye
• Squinting, which can mean pain
• Discharge
• Reddish brown staining of the fur
• Dampness or wetness under the eye
• Sneezing
• Eye or skin infection
• Holding the eye shut
• Odor
• Rubbing of eyes with the paw, or against other objects
• Periorbital alopecia

Types

There are several types of ocular conditions that can cause watery eyes, some of which are listed below.

• Distichiasis
  • An entire row of eyelashes can be affected
  • The eyelashes may grow in an abnormal direction or in an abnormal location on the eyelid
  • Genetics play a factor
  • Many breeds can be affected: Chesapeake Retriever, Golden Retriever, Shetland Sheepdog, Pekingese, Pug, Boxer, Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Dachshund, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso
• Entropion
  • With this condition, the eyelid rolls inward
  • The lashes on the surface of the eyelid rubs against the cornea
  • Some of the many breeds that may be affected by this congenital disorder are Akita, Shar Pei, Great Pyrenees, American Staffordshire Terrier, Pekingese, Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, Bulldog, Pomeranian, Mastiff, Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Dane, Labrador Retriever, Japanese Chin, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Dalmatian, Rottweiler, Siberian Husky, Weimaraner, Poodle, Basset Hound and Irish Setter
• Conjunctivitis
  • This is an inflammation of the lining tissue that covers the eye
  • Often both eyes will be involved
  • Can be bacterial, viral, secondary to allergies etc.
  • May be secondary to another disease
  • Breed associated conditions may predispose German Shepherds and Collies
• Dacryocystitis
  • An inflammation of the tear duct which can be genetic (such as abnormal development) or acquired (tumor or bacteria)
  • Brachycephalic breeds are susceptible due to the shallow eye socket and the tight eyelid
  • Examples of this breed, which have a flat and wide skull, are the Pug, Pekingese, Bulldog and Boston Terrier
• Corneal Ulcer
  • This is the erosion through the epithelium (outer layer of eye) into the stroma (main support tissue for the cornea)
  • The most common cause is trauma
  • Can be secondary to other diseases like Dry Eye or Epithelial Dystrophy, which can be inherited by Boxers

Causes of Watery Eyes in Dogs

There can be many causes for watery eyes which lead to various degrees of seriousness. Several of the causes are listed here.

• Breeds with excessive hair on the face can have the hair growing into the eye
• Eyelashes growing at an abnormal angle
• Allergy to pollen, dust, mold etc.
• Trauma, punctures, scratches
• Tumor
• Irritants such as smoke, sprays, dust or perfumes
• Bacteria
• Virus
• Fungi
• Glaucoma
• Facial anatomy that causes inadequate tear drainage
• Blocked tear duct
• Congenital issues like folds on the skin that become infected from constant wetness
• Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

Diagnosis of Watery Eyes in Dogs

Because watery eyes can be the indication of a serious problem, do not delay in taking your dog to the veterinarian for an eye examination. The veterinary caregiver will want to know how long the eyes have been watering, and whether there has been the presence of an illness of late.

If your dog is showing signs of pain, a topical anesthetic may be applied directly to the eye before the examination begins, in order to make the surface numb. A fluorescein stain may be applied on the eye. This is a painless procedure to verify if there are scratches, to check for foreign objects and to assess tear drainage. Once the stain has been applied and your dog’s head is tilted slightly downward, the veterinary caregiver will assess the drainage capabilities of the nose. Normal function will allow the stain to become evident in the nose within minutes.

The veterinarian will also examine your pet’s eyes to evaluate tear production (using a Schirmer Tear Test), corneal damage, and nasolacrimal duct function. Radiographs may be included to look for possible obstructions.

Depending on the cause for the epiphora, the veterinarian may suggest further investigation with an ophthalmologist.

Treatment of Watery Eyes in Dogs

The treatment of watery eyes in dogs will vary depending on the cause.

• Distichiasis and entropion
  • In the case of distichiasis and entropion, surgery is the most viable option.
  • Because the eyelashes and the hair on the eyelid can rub against the eyeball, ulcers can result.
  • If the ulcers are left untreated, vision loss can occur
• Conjunctivitis
  • If not taken care of, conjunctivitis can lead to impaired vision
  • Treatment involves flushing the eye, and a course of local antibiotic therapy
  • Eye drops and eye ointments are usually given
• Dacryocystitis
  • Treatment will mean flushing out the eye with sterile water or saline solution
  • Antibiotics will be prescribed
  • If the damage is too severe, surgery might be needed to create a new drainage pathway
  • The new drainage route will empty tears into the nasal cavity, mouth or sinus
• Corneal Ulcer
  • It is important to care for an ulcer without delay because the eye can be damaged beyond repair
  • Antibiotic eyedrops and ointments are required
  • Atropine may be used locally for pain relief
  • There’s a decent likelihood that your dog may be required to wear an Elizabethan collar so as to not rub the eye.

Conjunctivitis in Dogs

Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye or red eye, is as common in dogs as it is in humans. It’s an itchy inflammation of the tissue that coats the eye and the lining of the eyelids, called the conjunctiva.

Conjunctivitis can happen at any age, by itself or because of another eye problem.

While just one eye is typically affected, conjunctivitis can spread to both.

Symptoms

• Redness
• Puffy eyelids
• Stringy discharge
• Watery eyes
• Pawing at their eyes
• Squinting
• Eyelids that stick together

At the first sign of these symptoms, it’s best to take your dog to the vet. They can tell what type of conjunctivitis you’re dealing with and how to treat it. Plus, your dog may have a more serious condition that could cause blindness if left untreated. It’s important that you don’t try to treat an undiagnosed eye condition yourself, as medication for one condition may aggravate another.

Common Types

Allergic Conjunctivitis

This allergic reaction is often seasonal and not contagious.

Causes

• Dust mites
• Pollen
• Mold
• Dander
• Cosmetics and perfumes
• Drugs

Treatments

• Cold compresses
• Artificial tears
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
• Antihistamines
• Steroid eye drops

 

Viral Conjunctivitis

This is caused by a virus, spreads easily, and can take up to 3 weeks to get better.

Symptoms

• Cold-like symptoms
• Upper respiratory infection

Treatments

• Cold compresses
• Artificial tears
• Steroid eye drops

Bacterial Conjunctivitis

This type is also very contagious.

Causes

• Streptococcus (strep)
• Staphylococcus (staph infection)

Treatments

• Antibiotic eye drops or ointments

How to take care of your Dog’s eyes?

Dogs are susceptible to a variety of eye infections and issues. It is essential to know how to take care of your dog’s eyes and watch for any signs of disease or other problems.

One common problem is an eye infection. Dogs can get an eye infection from several sources, including bacteria, viruses, or foreign objects. Symptoms of an eye infection include redness, inflammation, discharge, and pain. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, it is essential to take them to the veterinarian for treatment.

Another common issue is dry eyes. This can be caused by several factors, such as allergies, dust, smoke, or wind. Dogs with dry eyes may have a discharge and often squint or paw at their eyes. Treatment for dry eyes may include artificial tears, anti-inflammatory drugs, or surgery.

In some cases, dogs may need to remove their eyes due to disease or injury. If your dog needs to have its eyes cleared, several options are available for providing them with vision. One option is called a “vision prosthesis.” This device is implanted in the eye socket and helps the dog see. Another option is to train the dog to use their other senses to navigate around safely.

It is essential to keep your dog’s eyes healthy and watch for any signs of infection or other problems. If you notice any symptoms, take your dog to the veterinarian for treatment. There are several options available for dogs who need to have their eyes removed, and most dogs can live a whole happy life with vision prostheses or other means of seeing.

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from a variety of eye issues. Some common problems include infections, inflammation, and even tumors.

If your dog has any eye issues, it’s essential to take him to the vet as soon as possible. Untreated eye problems can lead to blindness or other serious complications.

Fortunately, most dogs’ eye problems can be treated with medication or surgery. Here are a few tips on how to take care of your dog’s eyes:

• Keep your dog’s eyes clean by wiping them with a damp cloth every day.
• If your dog has an infection or other type of eye problem, administer the appropriate medication as prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Avoid letting your dog rub his eyes with his paws, which can aggravate the problem.
• Make sure your dog gets plenty of rest and avoid exposing him to bright sunlight or other harsh environments.

Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to a variety of eye issues. Some common problems include conjunctivitis, dry eyes, and cataracts. If your dog is experiencing any eye problems, it is essential to take care of them as soon as possible.

One of dogs’ most common eye problems is conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. Conjunctivitis is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelid. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include redness, swelling, discharge, and crusting around the eyes. If your dog has conjunctivitis, he will need to be treated with antibiotics.

Another common eye problem in dogs is dry eyes. Dry eyes can be caused by various factors, including aging, hormonal changes, and environmental irritants. Symptoms of dry eyes include excessive tearing, inflammation, and discharge. If your dog has dry eyes, he will need to be treated with artificial tears or other medications.

Cataracts are a common eye problem in dogs that lead to blindness. Cataracts are caused by the accumulation of proteins on the lens of the eye, which results in a loss of transparency. Symptoms of cataracts include cloudy vision and difficulty seeing in dim light. If your dog has cataracts, he will likely need surgery to remove the lenses and replace them with prosthetic ones.

If your dog is experiencing any eye problems, it is essential to take care of them as soon as possible. Some common treatments for dogs’ eyes include antibiotics, artificial tears, and surgery. By taking care of your dog’s eyes, you can help ensure that he retains his vision for years to come.

How to Clean and Remove Dog Tear Stains

Have you noticed dark discoloration in the fur around your dog’s eyes? That’s a telltale sign of dog tear stains, which are a common occurrence in many breeds—especially those with white or light-colored coats. Discover the causes and how to get rid of dog tear stains.

What Are Dog Tear Stains?

Dog tear stains are a result of excessive tear production, which is technically known as “epiphora.” Normally, your dog’s tears drain through the eyelid and into an area called the nasolacrimal duct. From there, the tears then empty into the nose. However, if this duct becomes blocked for any reason, or if it does not develop properly, the tears get backed up and flow from the eyes instead.

This residue then settles into the fur around the eyes and often appears in a dark brown or reddish color. A rusty color is typically caused by porphyrin, which is a waste by-product that comes from the breakdown of red blood cells. Needless to say, breeds with light-colored coats—such as the Bichon Frise or Maltese—have the most visible tear stains.

Dog Tear Stain Causes

There are a variety of reasons your furry friend has dog tear stains. common causes include:

Ingrown Hair or Eyelashes

Your dog’s eyes may be tearing more frequently due to overgrown hair or eyelashes that have been caught in the tear ducts.

Allergies

From the seasons changing to even the tap water your dog drinks, allergens may lead to excessive tear production.

Shallow Eye Sockets

Certain dog breeds have facial structures with sunken eye sockets and shorter noses that can lead to more frequent tears.

Blocked Tear Drainage Holes

Specifically known as puncta, these can become blocked from previous infections or excess scar tissue, causing tears to not drain properly.

In most cases, dog tear stains are common and manageable. However, some instances may be linked to other health issues. For example, tear stains that are more brownish than red-colored and have a foul odor could indicate a yeast infection. Always consult your veterinarian to understand your dog’s individual circumstances and the cause behind the tearing.

Tips for Tear Stain Prevention and Removal

Try these tips to remove your furry friend’s tear stains and help prevent them in the future.

Tip #1: Wipe the corners of your dog’s eyes using a soft rag or paper towel dampened with clean, warm water. Feel free to do this regularly or request the cleanup from your groomer.

Tip #2: Keep the hairs around your dog’s eyes trimmed. This will limit the amount of excess fur that could clump together and potentially lead to excessive tearing.

Tip #3: Use filtered water in your dog’s water bowls rather than from the tap. This will reduce the high mineral content present in tap water, which could help reduce staining.

Tip #4: In some cases, oral medication can be used to help prevent overproduction of tears. Always discuss with your veterinarian about the best decisions for your furry friend.

 

HOW TO CLEAN DOG EYE BOOGERS:

To prevent eye boogers from causing an infection, regularly rinse your dog’s eyes when mucous forms or irritation seems to be occurring.

How to Prevent Dog Eye Problems:

As with all health problems, prevention is key. When it comes to eye troubles some issues can’t be avoided, such as breed-related eye structure or eye disease passed along through genetics.

In addition to regular cleaning, these preventative measures can help to prevent eye infections and other issues:

TRIM HAIR AROUND EYES

Excess hair around your dog’s eyes can increase his chances of developing eye irritation or infection. A veterinarian or professional groomer can trim away the hair surrounding your dog’s eyes using a blunt-nosed scissor. Please do not attempt to cut hair around your animal’s eyes as you may cause injury. Seek the help of a professional groomer or veterinarian.

PROTECT THEIR EYES

When bathing your dog with a medicated shampoo or flea-killing product, use a dropped to apply an ophthalmic gel made especially for pets to his eyes beforehand to prevent shampoo or chemicals from causing irritation. To prevent injury to your dog’s eyes, do not allow your dog to stick his head out of the car window while it’s moving, as particles could come in contact with his eyes—scratching his cornea or causing other irritation.

KNOW WHAT SYMPTOMS TO WATCH FOR

Keep a close eye on your dog for any eye irritation, infection or loss of vision. Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has an eye problem.

DR KAFIL KHAN,CANINE CONSULTANT,LUCKNOW

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