Keeping one eye open: Veterinarian applies unique treatment to preserve dog's eyesight
Reported by Phys.org · October 30 at 1:00 AM · Summary by Hoofdeck
A nine-year-old bluetick beagle named Ziggy lost one eye to an autoimmune disease at Virginia Tech's Veterinary Teaching Hospital, and his remaining eye showed a partially detached retina. A steroid injection near the eye restored his vision within about a week to 10 days, and the treatment is being used to manage his condition.
Background
Uveodermatologic syndrome is an immune disorder in which the body's defenses attack the eyes, and it is usually treated with drugs that suppress the immune system throughout the body. Discospondylitis is inflammation of a spinal disc and the neighboring vertebrae, most often caused by a bacterial infection, and it is treated with antibiotics.
Why it matters
Eye disease can change quickly in dogs, so owners who notice squinting, a swollen third eyelid or new bumping into objects should see a vet promptly.
What you can do
If your dog squints, rubs an eye or seems to misjudge where objects are, ask your veterinarian to check the eyes and eye pressure right away. Keep any prescribed eye drops on schedule.
Written by Hoofdeck from the report by Phys.org. Background is general information, not advice about your horse; if you are worried, call your vet.