Eye Ailments in Dogs

By Yvette Marie

Instructions

Cherry Eye

Step 1:
Canine nictitans gland prolapse, commonly called cherry eye, occurs when a dog's third eyelid prolapses and becomes visible, appearing as a little pink "cherry" in the corner of the eye. According to dog.info, it is easily corrected through surgery.

Cataracts

Step 1:
Cataracts, a clouding or whitening of the eye lens, are generally an inherited condition, or may occur due to chronic illness, immune deficiency or injury. According to scamperingpaws.com, if the cataracts are particularly bothersome, they can be surgically removed.

Entropion

Step 1:
According to dog.info, entropion is an uncomfortable, genetic condition that causes a dog's eyelid to fold inward and rub abrasively against the eyeball. Entropion is treatable by surgically removing excess skin from the outer eyelid.

Glaucoma

Step 1:
Glaucoma, an increase in eye pressure, is a very serious condition that, according to scamperingpaws.com, can result in blindness and/or eye loss if not treated immediately. Watch for dilated pupils, eye protrusion, squinting, excessive blinking, bloodshot appearance or pain (rubbing eyes against objects or with paws).

Corneal Ulceration

Step 1:
A corneal ulceration can occur if your dog's corneal epithelium (cornea covering) is injured. According to dog.info, corneal ulcerations are painful and can cause permanent damage if not treated immediately.

Dry Eye

Step 1:
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, commonly called dry eye, is the result of inadequate tear production. In some breeds, particularly the shih tzu, lhasa apso and pug, dry eye is a congenital condition that requires life-long management with medicated eye drops.

Resources

Photo/Video Credit

office.microsoft.com, freedigitalphotos.net, morguefile.com

More Puppy Pages

Canine Corneal Eye Problems

The cornea is the clear part of a dog's eye. Although dogs have an inner eyelid to help protect the eye, problems with the cornea often occur. According to Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, dogs with flat faces and bulging eyes like pugs, Boston...

Dog's eyes may swell for many reasons, and dog owners should see a vet before trying to treat them at home as the treatment depends on the problem, according to Dr. Alison Clode, assistant professor of veterinary ophthalmology at North Carolina State...

Once the favorite dog of England'a King William II, the pug breed has a regal history. The American Kennel Club (AKC), which recognized the breed in 1885, says it is one of the oldest known-breeds. Choose a pug and you will be choosing to own a little...

Part of being a responsible pet owner is maintaining your animal's health and well-being. You should always address any health issues that may occur. Just like humans, dogs can develop many different problems that need to be treated with veterinary care...

Many dogs suffer from health problems every day. Some may be serious, while others are not. It's important that you consult your veterinarian if you notice your dog is suddenly experiencing hair loss or watery eyes, as this could be a sign of a serious...