Our Animal Eye Care Services.
Cataracts in animals cause vision impairment and blindness just as they do in people. Cataract removal surgery (phacoemulsification) with artificial lens placement may be a good option to restore your pet’s vision. You can read more about it here.
Glaucoma is a blinding and painful disease. When medical option fails, glaucoma surgeries can prolong your pet’s vision and comfort. We perform highly advanced surgical solutions including Ahmed Valve or gonioshunt surgery and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (endolaser), and our doctors have one of the longest combined experiences in these surgeries. You can read more about Glaucoma in animals.
Corneal ulcers or abrasion are painful and can be vision threatening. Prompt assessment using microscopes and appropriate treatment are critical in ulcer management. In some severe cases, surgical repair gives a better prognosis and may be recommended. We also offer corneal crosslinking, a novel treatment that can accelerate the healing of certain ulcers. You can read more about it here.
Third eyelid gland has an important role in your dog’s ocular surface health as it produces a portion of the tear film. Prolapse or displacement of this gland can lead to dry eye disease and discomfort. Our doctors are experts in surgical repair of the gland, which restores the gland’s function and gets your dog back on track!
Eyelids are important protector of your pet’s eyes, so eyelid diseases will often lead to eye diseases. Conditions such as entropion, ectropion, macroblepharon, eyelid agenesis, ectopic cilia, distichia and eyelid tumors may require surgery. Fortunately, many eyelid tumors can be removed without general anesthesia, which makes recovery much easier for your pet. Read more surgery for eyelid diseases in animals.
Tear film is important for the health of ocular surface including the cornea. When there is inadequate tear film, the ocular surface suffers, leading to mucous discharge, corneal inflammation and scarring, reduced vision, and pain. Many patients fortunately respond to medical treatment, especially with prompt treatment. In select cases, there are also surgical options including episcleral cyclosporine implants and parotid duct transposition. Read more dry eye disease (or KCS).
Since the retina is necessary for vision, retinal problems most often manifest as either partial or complete visual deficit. The most common signs are bumping into walls and furniture, inability to fetch toys, and being easily startled. Sometimes visual problems are noted only in certain lighting conditions (i.e. light vs. dark or day vs night). In animals with only partial vision loss or in those that become blind in only one eye, it is much more difficult to detect a problem at home because animals can compensate extremely well. If you suspect your pet has vision issues, contact us. Read more retinal diseases in animals.
CAER (Companion Animal Eye Registry) examination (also known as OFA examination) screens for potentially heritable eye conditions and allows responsible breeders to make more informed breeding decisions in an effort to reduce the incidence of inherited disease. Read more here.
Our doctors are experienced in diagnosing and managing equine ocular diseases. Our office works closely with local equine veterinarians to provide comprehensive ophthalmic services within Santa Cruz area. Because equine cases can be particularly complex, they often require a team effort along with your primary veterinarian. Equine examinations should be scheduled through your veterinarian when possible. To facilitate scheduling an appointment for your horse, please fill out the Equine Exam Request Form.