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Eye Conditions
Dislocation of
the Eyeball
Dislocation of one or both eyeballs can be a common problem in dogs with
large bulging eyes such as Boston Terriers, Pugs, Pekingese, Maltese and
some spaniels. It is generally caused by dog bites or other trauma.
Struggling with these dogs while attempting to hold or restrain them for
any reason can cause the eye to bulge out so far that they eyelids snap
shut behind the eyeball. This prevents the eyeball from returning to the
socket. If this happens, it is an emergency! If not treated
right away it may lead to loss of vision.
Shortly after the eye dislocates, swelling behind the eye makes it
extremely difficult to return the eyeball to its normal position. Proceed
at once to the nearest veterinary hospital. Carry the dog, if
possible. Cover the eye with a wet wash cloth. Prevent the dog from pawing
at the eye.
Corneal
Abrasions
The cornea is the clear part of the eye. Corneal injuries are extremely
painful and require immediate veterinary attention. Affected dogs will
squint, tear, and avoid light. The third eyelid often comes out to protect
the injured eye. Breeds with bulging eyes, such as the Pekingese, Maltese,
Boston Terrier, Pugs and some spaniels are particularly susceptible to
corneal injuries.
Corneal abrasions occur when either the dog accidentally scratches the
cornea when itching or when a foreign body such as dirt or lint gets in
the eye and damages this surface layer of the eye. Swelling at the site of
the injury can cause the area to appear hazy or opaque when viewed under
magnification.
Corneal abrasions in the upper part of the cornea may be caused by
misdirected eyelashes. Lower corneal opacities suggest an imbedded foreign
body. Abrasions near the inner portion of the eye can be caused by a
foreign body beneath the third eyelid.
Corneal abrasions heal once the foreign body has been removed in about 3 -
5 days. However, healing will not occur if the foreign body is embedded in
the cornea or is beneath one of the eyelids. It is for this reason that
all corneal abrasions should be see by your vet to prevent further injury
and/or infection.
Ear Conditions
Infections of
the Outer Ear
External otitis is and
infection of the outer ear and the ear canal. The ear canals are delicate
structures and can easily become infected if not properly cared for. 80%
of infections occur in breeds with long floppy ears. The reason this is
the case is that when the ears get wet for whatever reason (during a bath
or from being licked by another dog) not enough air gets to circulate in
the ear canals to help dry them out and keep them dry. Breeds with erect
ears have fewer ear infections because there is better air circulation.
Where there is moisture, bacteria is sure to begin growing and this causes
the infection to begin.
Other causes of outer ear infections include narrowing of the ear canal
which can cause wax build up and moisture collection in the ear, allergic
skin diseases, foreign bodies in the ears such as foxtails, or burrs, or
ear mites. Also well meant, but improper ear cleaning can actually cause
moisture to go further into the ear canal.
Signs of an external ear infection include: head shaking, scratching and
rubbing at the affected ear. The dog often tilts or carries his head down
on the painful side and cries or whines when the ear is touched. If you
were to look into the ear you would see redness and swelling of the skin
folds. There is usually a waxy or white discharge accompanied by a foul
odor. Hearing can also be affected.
Bacterial
Infections. Infections caused by a bacteria are usually caused by
staphylococci. The discharge is usually moist and light brown. Other
bacteria that can cause ear infections include pseudomonas or proteus.
They usually cause the drainage to be yellow or green. There can also be
more than one bacteria growing during an infection. When this occurs
treatment with antibiotics can be more difficult.
Fungal and Yeast
Infections. Yeast infections can occur as a result of treating a
bacterial infection with antibiotics. They are also common in dogs
suffering from Hypersensitive skin disorders. Usually a brown discharge is
noted along with a rancid odor. These infections tend to persist until the
underlying disease is controlled.
Treatment:
Because infections of the outer ear can quickly move to the middle and
inner ear, it is extremely important to take your dog to your veterinarian
as soon as you suspect that they have an ear infection. Only they can do a
thorough inspection of the ear canal to determine the extent of the
infection, the type of infection, and determine if any damage has already
occurred to the inner and middle ear. Once a diagnosis has been made,
proper treatment (such as antibiotics) can then be prescribed. Always make
sure that the precise dosage of medication is given and do not stop giving
the medication to the dog even if he/she seems to feel better.
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