Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting underlying health issues before they escalate into serious diseases. When conducting an examination, it is essential to start at the head and carefully evaluate the eyes for any abnormalities. One common issue to watch for is eye discharge, which can lead to matting on the inner part of the eye, particularly common among patients with longer hair, often resulting in dermatitis.
Daily cleaning with a moistened cloth can help alleviate this issue, while occasional clipping of longer hair can prevent the accumulation of bacteria and debris. Pets, including dogs and cats, being closer to the ground, are more prone to collecting debris in their eyes, which is typically washed away by normal tearing that protects the eye's outer surface. Signs such as increased blinking or squinting may indicate irritation on the cornea's outer surface.
In cases of infection, the third eyelid on the inner part of the eye may become more pronounced, possibly due to the presence of foreign material. Using a sterile eye wash can help flush out any debris and maintain eye health. Furthermore, it is advisable to minimize extended exposure of a dog's head out of car windows, as the dry, windy conditions can exacerbate tear production.
While many dogs enjoy car rides, limiting exposure can reduce the risk of eye irritation. Some pets may require artificial tears to replenish dry eye membranes after a journey, especially crucial for those with dry eye syndrome – a condition characterized by reduced tear production, leading to superficial corneal ulcers that can potentially result in infection and blindness.
For thorough eye evaluations and expert advice on maintaining your pet's ocular health, consulting with veterinary professionals is recommended.