What is Dogs Dry Eye?

Dry Eye, or Keratoconjunctivitis as it is known in the medical world is the phrase given to the lack of tear production. Tears are made up of a mixture of substances and when the 'watery' part is not produced the eye becomes inflamed and because of the irritation scarring can occur and subsequently a lack of vision.

Many breeds of dog are under potential risk of contracting the disease, and if left untreated it can prove to be very brutal. Dry Eye can, after time, affect the vision so much that the dog can eventually lose it. This is why any swelling of your dogs’ eyes should be attended to immediately, as should any other visible eye problems.

This condition can be caused through immune-mediated destruction of the tear glands. It is also more common in female dogs rather then male dogs. There are also medications that can trigger Dry Eye so be sure to ask about the medication you use on your dog for any other illnesses. Look out for, sulfonamide, in any drugs. Other causes include:

• Canine Distemper
• Neurological Disorders
• Tear Gland Trauma

If you suspect that your dog may have eye problems, then you must look for the tell tale signs for this. After your dog has slept look to see if there is a thick yellow-green discharge around the eye and also look to see if the eye is overly red.

Like with virtually all other diseases the best form of treatment should be discussed with your veterinarian. Usually a Schirmer Tear Test will be carried out and the disease will be confirmed once an eye test is completed. So if you think that your dog may have Dry Eye go to your veterinarian and have it diagnosed.

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