Cat Eye Care Guide How to Maintain Clear and Healthy Eyes

Leaving Your Dog's Dry Eyes Untreated Risks Blindness

If you've noticed your dog's eyes are constantly red, with a lot of thick, yellow or green discharge, and no longer as bright and clear as before, they may be experiencing "dry eye" (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca).

• Dry eye in dogs can have many causes, such as older age, previous impact or injury to the eye area, certain medications, or a dog may be born without tear glands. Some breeds are also at especially high risk, including Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu, Pekingese, Westie Terrier, and Beagle.

If severe, dry eye can cause chronic eye pain, corneal damage, and in the worst cases, permanent vision loss. The best way to prevent this is to bring your dog in for a screening with a veterinarian, including tear production measurement and an eye health checkup. If an abnormality is found, treatment can begin right away.

Because "the eyes are windows to the heart," knowing early and treating quickly keeps your beloved companion safe for a good quality of life.