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Tag: dog eye care

  • How to Do a Weekly Home Check-Up of Your Dog | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    You play an important role in monitoring your canine companion’s health. Performing a simple weekly dog health check-up at home can help you spot potential problems early, before they become serious. This routine only takes about 10-15 minutes and can make a real difference in your dog’s wellbeing.

    Start with the Eyes and Ears

    Begin by looking at your dog’s eyes. They should be bright, clear, and free of discharge. Check for redness, cloudiness, or excessive tearing. Next, examine the ears by gently lifting each ear flap. The inner ear should be pink and clean, without redness, dark buildup, or foul odor. If your dog shakes their head frequently or scratches at their ears, this could signal a problem.

    Check the Mouth and Teeth

    Gently lift your dog’s lips to examine the teeth and gums. The gums should be pink (unless your dog naturally has darker pigmentation) and not red or swollen. While you’re looking, take note of any bad breath, which can be an early sign of dental disease. Remember that even young dogs can develop dental problems, and regular dental care at home between veterinary cleanings is essential for preventing painful mouth issues.

    Examine the Skin and Coat

    Run your hands thoroughly over your dog’s entire body. You’re feeling for any lumps, bumps, or sensitive areas. Part the fur to look at the skin underneath, checking for redness, flakes, sores, or parasites like fleas and ticks. This is also a good time to check for any unusual hair loss or changes in coat quality.

    Look at the Paws and Nails

    Examine each paw carefully, checking between the toes and pads for cuts, cracks, or foreign objects. The paw pads should be smooth without excessive dryness or injuries. Check nail length too—nails that are too long can cause discomfort and affect how your dog walks.

    Observe Movement and Behavior

    Watch how your dog moves during your weekly play time or walks. Notice any limping, stiffness, or reluctance to jump or climb stairs. Also pay attention to changes in eating habits, drinking, bathroom habits, or energy levels.

    Keep Notes

    Consider keeping a simple journal of your weekly findings. This helps you track changes over time and provides valuable information to share with your veterinarian during regular visits.

    If you notice anything unusual during your weekly dog health check-up at home, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Early detection of health issues often leads to better outcomes and can prevent unnecessary discomfort for your canine family member.

    Being proactive and vigilant about your dog’s health is always a good idea. You know your dog best, so don’t delay visiting the vet if anything seems off at any time. Remember, home check-ups don’t replace regular veterinary visits—they simply help you keep track of your dog’s well-being. Always consult your veterinarian about any health concerns and follow the recommended examination schedule.

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    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

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  • What is Cherry Eye in Dogs | Animal Wellness Magazine

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    If you’ve noticed a pink or red bump in the corner of your dog’s eye that looks like a tiny cherry, your furry friend might have a condition called “cherry eye.” While this sounds scary, understanding what it is and how to handle it can help you make the best decisions for your pet’s health.

    What Exactly is Cherry Eye?

    Cherry eye is the common name for when a special gland in your dog’s third eyelid pops out of place. You might not know this, but dogs have a third eyelid – a thin piece of tissue at the inner corner of each eye. This eyelid contains an important gland that makes tears to keep the eye healthy and moist.

    When this gland slips out of its normal spot, it creates a smooth, round, pink or red bump that looks just like a small cherry. That’s how it got its name! This gland is really important because it produces up to half of your dog’s tears.

    Which Dogs Are Most At Risk?

    Some dog breeds are more likely to develop cherry eye than others. If you have an American Cocker Spaniel, English Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Pug, or Boston Terrier, keep a closer eye out for this condition. Cherry eye happens most often in young dogs under two years old, but it can affect dogs of any age.

    The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but genetics seem to play a big role since certain breeds get it more often.

    Signs to Watch For

    You’ll usually notice cherry eye pretty easily. Look for:

    • A smooth, round, pink or red mass in the inner corner of the eye
    • Eye discharge or extra tearing
    • Redness around the eye
    • Your dog pawing at or rubbing their eye

    Cherry eye can happen in one eye or both eyes. Sometimes dogs develop it in one eye first, then the other eye later.

    Why Treatment Matters

    Cherry eye isn’t just a cosmetic problem – it can affect your dog’s health. When the gland is out of place, it can become swollen, irritated, or infected. More importantly, your dog might not produce enough tears, which can lead to dry eye. Dry eye is uncomfortable and requires daily medication for life.

    Treatment Options

    The good news is that cherry eye can be fixed with surgery. Your veterinarian will put the gland back where it belongs using one of several surgical techniques. It’s important to never remove the gland completely, as this greatly increases the risk of dry eye problems later.

    After surgery, your dog may need eye drops or ointments for a short time to prevent infection and reduce swelling.

    Most dogs do very well after cherry eye surgery, especially when it’s treated quickly. The sooner the gland is put back in place, the better chance it has of working normally again.

    If you notice any signs of cherry eye in your dog, don’t wait – contact your veterinarian right away. They can examine your pet and recommend the best treatment plan.

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