Canine Eye Diseases

Eyes are one of the sensitive parts of a canine dog, and eye diseases being one of the many illnesses found in their breeds. Most eye ailments in a dog appear on their eyelids. Dogs have three eyelids for each eye, which are called the upper, lower and the third eyelid. Eye diseases in a dog can be the result of faulty genes or due to bacterial or yeast infections. These diseases may or may not cause pain and discomfort to your pet, however, if left untreated, it can lead to severe conditions where the canine can even lose its vision. Hence, it is important to consult and seek medical treatment from a veterinarian when you observe changes in your dog's eye.

Glaucoma
This is one of the most serious eye ailments found in the canines. It is caused when fluids in the eye are not let out, causing increased pressure on the eye. When a dog is suffering from glaucoma, its eye may appear cloudy, red or swollen. There are two types of glaucoma, namely primary glaucoma and secondary glaucoma. It may cause pain to a dog, leading to depression and loss of appetite. Glaucoma may initially be traced in one eye, however, it can spread to the other eye too. If glaucoma is diagnosed at the initial stages, it can be treated.

Cataract
Like human beings, even dogs develop cataract. This is when the normal transparent lens of the eye is filled with white opacities, blurring the vision of the dog. This disease is common in Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievals, and the symptoms are generally seen when the dogs grow older. The cause that develop cataract, is usually heredity. However, it can appear with other eye diseases or diseases like canine diabetes. Cataract in dogs can be corrected through surgery, however, perfect vision may not be initiated. It is important to get this disease treated at early stages, as it may lead to permanent blindness.

Conjunctivitis
This is another common eye disease found in canines. It is caused due to the inflammation of conjunctiva, which is a tissue that lines the eyelids and attaches the eyeball to the cornea. This is mainly caused due to heredity conditions, bacterial and viral infections, allergies or tumors. If one eye gets affected, the other eye is also prone to it. Conjunctivitis can appear as an independent disease or can appear along with other ailments like coughing or sneezing. It is commonly observed in puppies rather than the adult dogs. The eye may appear reddish and thick mucus may be discharged which is green or yellowish in color. Eyes are likely to stick together when closed and would be difficult to open. Another disease that is caused due to infection of the conjunctiva and cornea is keratoconjunctivitis sicca which is also known as the dry eye condition. This condition is developed when the eye dries due to less production of tears.

Cherry Eye or Prolapsed Third Eyelid Gland
The third eyelid protects the eye and consists of a gland that is responsible for production of tears. Sometimes, this tear gland, located in the corner of the eye bulges out and appears reddish. This condition of the eye is called cherry eye of the prolapsed third eye gland. The reason for this eye disease is still unknown, however, it can be attributed to fungal infections, weak immune system or weak connective tissues around the third eye gland. This condition is not as critical as it appears and can be treated through surgery, where the popped gland is pushed back into its place. Earlier, the third eyelid gland used to be removed permanently, but it is not practiced nowadays, as the dog may succumb to keratoconjunctivitis or dry eye conditions. Hence, this should be treated as soon as possible to avoid further infections and injuries. This eye disease is common in Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, etc.

Entropion
In this condition, the eyelid tends to curl inward. This causes hair above the eye to fall on the eyeball thus causing corneal ulcer. Common symptoms of entropion are red or squinted eyes. The dog may sense pain and constantly scratch the eye which may cause more damage to the eye which may further lead to loss of eyesight. The usual treatment to this eye ailment is surgery, which is known as blepharoplasty in which the eyelids are tightened. It is a rare scenario where this disease reappears after treating it once through surgery. This condition affects almost all the dog breeds, however, there are some in which it is very common like the St. Bernard, Great Danes, Rottweiler, Bloodhounds, poodles, Shar-Peis and Spaniels.

Other eye diseases that are seen in canines are distichiasis, ectopic cilia, dermoid, epiphora, etc. It is important to take your pet dog to a vet even if you find a slightest change in the appearance of their eye. As the technology has advanced immensely, every eye ailment can be treated if diagnosed at its early stages. Surgical treatment followed by administration (proper medication) and care at home will ensure safe recovery of your canine.