An Overview of Glaucoma Disease in Dogs

An Overview of Glaucoma Disease in Dogs

Glaucoma causes inadequate fluid drainage and also an increased pressure (intraocular pressure) in the eyes. Just like humans, this particular condition is very common in animals too, including dogs. Glaucoma can lead to vision loss and other serious issues if not taken care of at its earlier stages. So, before we head to the ways to treat Glaucoma, let us begin with the types, symptoms, which dog breeds are more susceptible to such a disease and more!

Types of Glaucoma Disease in Dogs Glaucoma disease can be of two types – primary and secondary. Primary glaucoma is largely due to of heredity and occurs due to physical or psychological actions inherited by the dog.

On the other hand, secondary glaucoma is generally triggered by something like say, a wounded or severely hurt eye(s).

Symptoms of Glaucoma in Dogs The following are symptoms of glaucoma. As soon as you notice any of these symptoms, contact your local vet.

• Cloudy cornea • Dilated pupil • Erratic walking style due to vision problems • Excessive blinking • Eye redness • Eye tearing • Eyelids fluttering • Loss in appetite • Pressure in the eye • Squinting • Swollen eye • Watery eyes

Dogs Breeds with Higher Glaucoma Risks Glaucoma can affect all types of dog breeds but the more common breeds that are highly susceptible to glaucoma disease (due to genetics) are as follows: • Alaskan Malamutes • Basset Hounds • Beagles • Chihuahuas • Cocker Spaniels • Chow Chows • Dalmatians • Great Danes • Jack Russell Terriers

• Poodles • Samoyeds • Schnauzers • Siberian Huskies

Diagnosing Glaucoma in Dogs As soon as notice any of the above symptoms, immediately rush to a vet so that he can aid you in finding out whether or not your pooch has been diagnosed with the dreaded glaucoma disease or not.

To diagnose your canine, the vet will first perform an ophthalmologic examination followed by tests, tonometry (to measure intraocular pressure) and obviously x-rays.

Treating Glaucoma in Dogs Glaucoma can be treated depending on the cause and severity. Once that is figured out, the treatment process can roll in. Treatment methods of glaucoma are as follows: • Ointments and Eye drops can be used if the eye problem is in its initial stage.

• In case, the disease is a serious issue, the surgery is highly advised. There are various surgeries possible like Cyclophotocoagulation (a laser instrument that eradicates the secretory epithelium), Gonioimplantation (small tube inserted to provide a fluid drainage outlet) and, Enucleation (eyeball removal; done especially in extreme cases).

Glaucoma may just be an eye issue but if not treated early, it can develop into something very serious. Hence, make sure to go for regular eye checkups (say, once in three months) and also feeding your pal nutritious food is essential. Make sure to keep these two points in mind to lower the chances of glaucoma disease.