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 Pawdeck
A 9-year-old bluetick beagle named Ziggy, owned by a Virginia Tech faculty member, lost one eye to an autoimmune disease called uveodermatologic syndrome and then suffered a partially detached retina in the other. Veterinarians at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine treated the retina with a steroid injection near the eye, and he could see again within about a week to 10 days.
Background
Uveodermatologic syndrome is an immune-mediated condition in which the body's defenses attack the eyes and sometimes the skin and pigment cells. Treatment usually involves drugs that suppress the immune system, which can carry risks of their own, so veterinary ophthalmologists often adjust therapy to each dog's other health problems.
Why it matters
Eye conditions in dogs can move quickly from mild to vision-threatening, and early visits to a vet can make a real difference.
What you can do
If your dog suddenly bumps into things, walks into the wrong room, squints, or has a visible third eyelid, contact your veterinarian promptly, since sudden vision loss needs same-day attention.
Written by Pawdeck from the report by Phys.org. Background is general information, not advice about your pet; if you are worried, call your vet.
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