Eye Care For Animals

A thorough examination of the pet’s eyes and surrounding tissues. This includes tear film assessment, tonometry/glaucoma testing, gonioscopy, pachymetry, and neuro–ophthalmic evaluation. 

Eye Care for Animals participates in monthly OFA/ECR (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals/Eye Certification Registry) hospitals nationwide to promote the prevention (and/or) reduction of heritable eye disease and ensure the continued health of purebred dogs. 

If detected early, surgical removal of the lens can be beneficial, but there is a risk of potential side effects after surgery such as: 

• Inflammation 

• Requiring lifelong topical medication 

• Farsightedness 

Other surgical procedures can be performed at the time of lens removal to reduce the chance of common post–surgery complications occurring. 

If the retina is not severely damaged after the lens is removed, pets will be able to see, but may be farsighted. If the eye is already suffering from severe inflammation or glaucoma, eye removal or a procedure to place a prosthetic eye may be recommended. 

Deep or melting ulcers require aggressive medical treatment and often will need surgical intervention to salvage the eye. We use various surgical techniques to treat deep corneal ulcers. The surgical techniques we perform most commonly include tissue grafting such as conjunctival pedicle grafts, corneoconjunctival transpositions or the application of cyanoacrylate surgical grade tissue adhesive or glue. 

Blepharoplasty is the surgical correction of the eyelids. If diseases of the eyelid such as entropion, ectropion, and eyelid masses are left untreated–it can lead to corneal ulcers, eye infections, corneal scarring, corneal vascularization, and corneal mineralization. 

For larger defects, surgical reconstruction of the upper eyelid may be indicated for eye health and comfort of your pet. There are several options for surgical methods which can be discussed during your visit.  Most surgical methods are geared at relocating a normal piece of tissue from nearby structures and grafting a new eyelid into the defect. The goal of this surgery is to recreate a new eyelid and restore normal function thus providing long–term comfort for pets. 

Cyclophotocoagulation – This is a procedure that uses a laser to eliminate a portion of the cells in the ciliary body to reduce the rate of fluid production. Over time, the fluid–producing cells may regenerate leading to the recurrence of high pressure. This recurrence of high pressure may necessitate a repeat procedure. 

We will recommend diagnostic testing based on the specific signs or symptoms a pet is showing. For certain tests, we may recommend one of our partner hospitals. We will consider test results along with history and clinical signs when making a diagnosis and developing a treatment plan. A CT (computed tonometry) scan or an ultrasound is often needed to search for signs of systemic infection. If neurologic abnormalities are present, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) may be recommended.

Drugs used to manage glaucoma can include pilocarpine, demecarium bromide, and latanoprost. Other medications include carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (such as dorzolamide) and beta blockers (such as timolol). A pet’s initial response to medication may be short lived. In most instances, it is difficult to control eye pressure with medications alone and a variety of surgical techniques have been developed to help control the condition.  

Surgeries for glaucoma can be divided into vision–saving surgeries and surgeries for comfort. Vision–saving surgeries are an option for patients with acute glaucoma that still have vision or in which there is a clinical prognosis for potential for regaining vision. However, once there is severe damage to the optic nerve and retina, surgeries for comfort can be explored. 

Cyclosporine and tacrolimus are immunomodulatory medications that form the mainstay of therapy for dry eye. This class of drugs limits the immune–mediated attack on a patient's lacrimal glands, and stimulates production of the aqueous component of the tear film. 

Typically, cyclosporine or tacrolimus will be required for the duration of the life of your pet. Complications are uncommon.  

Pets may also be prescribed a topical anti–inflammatory agent. Corticosteroids, such as Neomycin / Polymyxin b / Dexamethasone, reduce inflammation and scarring of the corneal and conjunctival surfaces. 

Artificial tear preparations are often used to provide lubrication to the cornea. 

Specific therapies exist for the less common forms of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). Please speak with your veterinary ophthalmologist for further information if pets have been diagnosed with one of these variants of KCS. 

Our team has the knowledge and equipment needed to manage hypersensitive retinopathy (common in elderly cats), pannus (or chronic superficial keratitis), uveodermatologic syndrome (occurs most commonly in Akita, Samoyed, and Siberian Husky dogs, but can occur in any breed), and other ocular abnormalities. 

We have the resources to treat equine cataracts, corneal ulcers, and recurrent uveitis.* 

Smaller cataracts may not impair vision and may only require periodic exams to monitor changes. In other cases, a long–term anti–inflammatory drop, or ointment may be recommended. Congenital cataracts causing blindness typically require surgical removal (phacoemulsification) under general anesthesia. 

Equine ulcers that worsen despite therapy may require surgery to prevent rupture of the eye. These surgeries can involve grafting supportive tissue from the pink part of the eye into the ulcer, helping to fill the defect and speed up healing. 

The goals of therapy for recurrent uveitis are to preserve vision and control eye inflammation. In acute cases, antibiotics, corticosteroids, and anti–inflammatory drugs are used. Treatment may last for several weeks or months. Some horses may be candidates for a surgical implant device that releases a medication called cyclosporine. 

*Service not available at all locations. Please call ahead for service availability. 

This is a surgical correction of the eye that is accomplished by entering the back of the eye via small ports. The diseased vitreous is first removed. The detached retina is then repositioned back against the back of the eye using a heavy oil called Perfluoro–n–octane (PFO). The PFO is replaced by silicon oil, which acts as an artificial vitreous. A laser is also used to strengthen the retina's attachment to the back of the eye. We can examine your pet and help determine if this type of surgery is needed; however, there are a limited number of doctors who can perform these types of surgery and you would be referred to either our ECFA Pasadena (CA) or ECFA Lee’s Summit (MO) locations.

When a disorder of the eye fails to respond to general treatment or if advanced equipment is required, our specialized eye care teams are here to help.