Many ophthalmic diseases are inherited, but research has only scratched the surface to uncover the responsible genes. However, science does have a good handle on progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and retinal dysplasia conditions in dogs. Any dog can develop this blinding condition, and although the genetic basis is not always clear, specific gene mutations have [...]

The cornea is the highly specialized clear tissue that covers the front of your pet’s eyes. The highly specialized tissue has multiple cell layers and functions to nourish and protect the eyes and allow crisp, clear vision. Sometimes the corneal cells can malfunction or be injured, leading to lesions that appear as white spots or [...]

Your pet’s genes greatly influence their appearance, behavior, and health. Humans have learned to manipulate pet genetics to produce breeds that fit our needs—from hunting rodents, to herding sheep, to looking adorable sitting on their owner’s lap. Unfortunately, genetics are highly complex, and breeding pets for specific traits and appearances can unexpectedly create gene combinations [...]

A healthy pet’s eyes produce a tear film that helps to lubricate, protect, and nourish the eyes, giving them a healthy, bright appearance. Tears have several layers, including watery, mucous, and oil portions that work together for optimal health, but an eye irritation, infection, or chronic disease can upset this balance and lead to excessive [...]

Occasionally, an astute pet owner will ask us if their pet’s ear problems could contribute to their eye issues. Most of the time the answer is “No,” except for a specific dry eye condition called neurogenic keratoconjunctivitis sicca (neurogenic KCS). KCS results when the nerves responsible for stimulating tear production are damaged, which can be [...]

In veterinary ophthalmology, we are often tasked with diagnosing pets who appear to have an eye problem, but when examined more closely, they actually have a neurologic, dermatologic, or oncologic problem that also affects the eyes. This is often the case with nystagmus, a rhythmic, jerking, back-and-forth, or circular eye movement usually caused by an [...]

If your pet’s facial or eye symmetry has changed, an orbital condition could be to blame. The orbit is the space in which your pet’s eye sits, and provides little extra space for more than than the eye. When lesions, inflammation, or infection invade this area, the eye is displaced and pushed progressively forward.  Too [...]

If a mysterious lump has appeared near your pet’s eye, you no doubt are concerned. Could the lump be cancer? Is it serious? As pet owners ourselves, we understand your anxiety, and the Veterinary Vision Center team is ready to get to the bottom of your pet’s eye problem. Here are the top five reasons [...]

Pigment changes in your dog or cat’s eyes, which are common as they age, can be a normal variant or harmless change, but can also signal a serious underlying issue. The Veterinary Vision Center team uses advanced ophthalmic equipment and techniques to determine the source of your pet’s pigment change, and whether treatment is required. [...]

Redness in your pet’s eyes is a vague, non-specific sign that could signal a temporary, harmless irritation, or the start of a more serious disease process. A visit to your primary veterinarian can identify and treat minor red eye problems, but a visit to Veterinary Vision Center is warranted if the redness is not responsive [...]