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Tuesday, February 11, 2014

BETTER TO SEE YOU...

Annie is doing great. Down to one type of eye drop a day, I've noticed the remaining redness clearing up. Her eye tears occasionally; her vision improved dramatically. Our next office visit is two weeks away and I'm confident the ophthalmic news will be good.

I just reread the pamphlet about canine cataract surgery and felt I should pass some of the information along. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision impairment leading to total blindness for affected dogs. Cataract surgery often restores vision by removing the cloudy lens replacing it with an artificial one.

When the lens clouds or becomes opaque vision decreases and in advanced cases causes blindness. I was surprised to learn the majority of cataracts in dogs are the result of a genetic defect involving the lens as well as a progression of old age. Annie's cataract started forming around age three.

Most cataracts are treated by removing the natural lens replacing it with an artificial lens. The success rate of uncomplicated cataract surgery is generally around 90% although as with any surgery the outcome varies depending on the overall health of eye and the patient. Exams and tests will help the Ophthalmologist determine the pros and cons associated with your dog's surgery.

Post surgery care involves keeping the patient calm and quiet, administering eye drops, antibiotics. For the first six months checkups will be scheduled at regular intervals to assess your dog's progress and identify any emergencies.

In Annie's case a noticeable improvement in her vision was apparent almost immediately. If you notice any difference in your pet's vision or any changes in the eye itself have your pet evaluated by your veterinarian. One thing Annie no longer does is cry when she sees a black plastic bag in the street. Before her surgery she thought it was one of our ferals now she can tell the difference.

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