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Free Tear Tests for Dry eye in February

Do you own a Westie? Or a Cavalier, a Cocker or a Shih Tzu?

The above breeds are the most often affected with Dry Eye, technically known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). This condition is one of the commonest eye problems we see in dogs, and is often behind recurrent eye infections. Dogs with dry eye have a reduced ability to produce tears, sometimes to virtually nil. The natural tear film is vital for lubricating and protecting the surface or cornea of the eye, and when it fails dogs are likely to suffer from eye infections, conjunctivitis and painful ulcers, eventually resulting in blindness.

Although there are other causes, most cases of dry eye occur when the dog’s own immune system destroys the tear glands. This progressively reduces the dog’s ability to produce tears, and if left untreated tear production can be lost forever. Any breed of dog can be affected with dry eye, but Westies, Cavalier and Cocker Spaniels, and Shih Tzus top the list, closely followed by Bulldogs, Pekingese, Pugs and Lhasa Apsos.

Tear production can be measured quickly and easily using a Schirmer tear test. This involves a vet or trained nurse placing a specially designed piece of paper in each eye for 1 minute and reading the progression of a dye along the paper strip.

A recent survey was carried out in 20 veterinary practices, measuring tear production in just over 1000 dogs which had not previously been diagnosed with dry eye. The results were surprising, with 9.7% of dogs tested having tear levels so low that they were classified as having dry eye. Almost 40% of these had test readings classed as critical. Bearing in mind the owners of these dogs had not noted any problems with their eyes, these are worrying results.

We know that the most effective treatment for dry eye works best if it is started as early as possible,  because it helps prevent further damage to the tear glands, and stimulates the remaining gland tissue to produce tears. Once the gland has been destroyed, this treatment will not be effective. In these cases, the eyes have to be managed using artificial tears and other preparations.

There is no cure for dry eye as the disease is a lifelong condition which requires lifelong management. Early detection of dry eye improves the odds for managing the condition well enough to keep the eyes comfortable and functioning. In the light of the above survey results there is good reason to carry out Schirmer tear tests on all dogs of the predisposed breeds, and dogs with any of the following signs :-

• Red inflamed eyes
• Discomfort, excessive blinking
• Discharge from eyes
• Dry looking eyes
• Infections, ulcers, conjunctivitis

During the whole of February we are offering free Schirmer tear tests to all dogs. Just give us a call and book your appointment.

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