What are the common causes of Acute Vision Loss?
Blindness in pets can be caused by various factors, and the development of vision loss can vary depending on the underlying cause. Acute vision loss can stem from three general categories, namely:
OPAQUE OCULAR MEDIA
Opaque ocular media in dogs and cats can be caused by various conditions affecting the cornea, lens, or vitreous humor.
1. Cataracts:
Opacity or cloudiness of the lens. Cataracts are a common cause of opaque ocular media in dogs and cats. They occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to vision impairment or blindness.
2. Lens Luxation:
Lens luxation is the displacement of the lens from its normal position, which can cause opacity in the visual pathway.
3. Corneal Opacities:
Conditions such as corneal ulcers, scars, dystrophies, lipid deposition and oedema can lead to opacity in the cornea, contributing to opaque ocular media.
4. Glaucoma: Glaucoma, characterized by increased pressure within the eye, can result in damage to the optic nerve and cloudiness of the ocular media over time.
5. Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea (iris, ciliary body, and choroid) and the uveal trac can cause changes in the vitreous humor leading to opacities due to cellular infiltration, protein exudation, and secondary changes.
6. Retinal Diseases: Certain retinal diseases and detachments can indirectly lead to opacity in the ocular media by disrupting normal retinal function and causing inflammation or haemorrhage.
7. Inherited Conditions: Some dog breeds are predisposed to inherited ocular conditions that can result in opaque ocular media, such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) or inherited cataracts.
8. Trauma: Ocular trauma, including injuries to the cornea, lens, or other structures of the eye, can lead to opacity and loss of transparency in the ocular media.These conditions can vary in severity and may require different treatment approaches ranging from medical management to surgical intervention, depending on the underlying cause and the extent of ocular damage.
9. Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea can lead to opacity.
RETINAL DYSFUNCTION
Retinal dysfunction and diseases can result from various conditions that affect the delicate structures and functions of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for vision. These conditions can impact vision and lead to significant visual impairment or blindness if left untreated. Some common conditions leading to retinal dysfunction and diseases include:
1. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): AMD is a progressive degenerative disease that primarily affects the macula, leading to central vision loss. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in individuals over 50 years old and senior pets. It affects the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. AMD can be classified as either dry (non-neovascular) or wet (neovascular), with the latter being characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina.
2. Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes mellitus and is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Chronic high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage, swelling (macular oedema), and the growth of abnormal blood vessels (proliferative retinopathy), causing diabetic retinopathy. These changes can cause vision loss and even retinal detachment if left untreated.
3. Retinal Detachment: Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from its underlying tissue, disrupting its blood supply and leading to vision loss. This can be caused by trauma, aging, advanced diabetes, age-related changes such as posterior vitreous detachment or other factors, leading to vision impairment or blindness if not promptly treated.
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP): RP is a group of inherited retinal disorders that lead to the progressive degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina. Patients with retinitis pigmentosa often experience progressive night blindness and peripheral vision loss. It typically presents with night blindness and progressive peripheral vision loss, eventually leading to tunnel vision or complete blindness.
Macular Oedema: Macular oedema refers to the accumulation of fluid in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision leading to swelling and distortion of central vision. This can occur secondary to various conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, vascular diseases (retinal vein occlusions), or inflammatory eye disorders (uveitis).
Retinal Vascular Diseases (Occlusions): Retinal vascular occlusions occur when blood flow to the retina is blocked, leading to ischemia (lack of oxygen) and damage to retinal tissue. Conditions affecting the blood vessels of the retina, such as central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), can lead to decreased blood supply and subsequent retinal damage causing sudden vision loss and other visual disturbances.
Hereditary Retinal Dystrophies: Retinal dystrophies encompass a group of genetic disorders that cause progressive degeneration of retinal cells, leading to vision loss. Conditions like retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, and Leber congenital amaurosis are examples of retinal dystrophies.
Hypertensive Retinopathy: Chronic hypertension can damage the blood vessels in the retina, resulting in hypertensive retinopathy. This condition may cause hemorrhages, exudates, and swelling, impacting vision.
Inflammatory Retinal Diseases: Conditions like uveitis and autoimmune disorders can lead to inflammation of the retina, causing damage to its structure and function.
Toxic Retinopathies: Exposure to certain medications or toxins can cause retinal toxicity, leading to visual disturbances. Examples include medications like chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, methanol and ethambutol.
Retinal Tumors: Tumors affecting the retina, such as retinoblastoma or choroidal melanoma, can lead to retinal dysfunction and vision loss.Early detection and management of retinal diseases are crucial for preserving vision. Regular eye exams, particularly for pet breeds with risk factors such as diabetes or retinal disorders, are essential for timely diagnosis and intervention.Early detection and prompt treatment of retinal diseases are essential for preserving vision and preventing irreversible damage to the retina.
OPTIC PATHWAY DISEASE
Optic pathway diseases encompass a range of conditions that affect the optic nerve and the structures involved in the transmission of visual information from the eye to the brain, leading to various visual impairments. These diseases can impact any part of the visual (optic) pathway, including the optic nerve, optic chiasm, optic radiations and optic tracts. Some common optic pathway diseases include:
Optic Neuritis: Optic neuritis involves inflammation of the optic nerve, often associated with demyelination leading to sudden vision loss, blurry vision, pain with eye movement, color vision disturbances or visual field defects. Demyelinating diseases associated with optic neuritis include multiple sclerosis but can occur as an isolated condition.
Optic Gliomas: Optic gliomas, also referred to as optic nerve gliomas, are infrequent tumors originating from glial cells in the optic nerve or optic chiasm. They are more commonly found in humans, especially children, than in dogs and cats. While optic gliomas can occur in veterinary cases, they are uncommon, with a higher occurrence in dogs than in cats. Even among dogs, optic gliomas are rare compared to other ocular and central nervous system tumors. When these tumors do manifest in animals, they may cause visual impairments and other neurological symptoms, depending on their size and location. Additionally, optic gliomas are often linked to neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).
Optic Nerve Atrophy: A degenerative condition characterized by the loss of nerve tissue in the optic nerve, leading to gradual vision loss. It can result from various causes, including trauma, ischemia, and inflammatory conditions.
Optic Tract Lesions: Damage or lesions to the optic tract, which carries visual information from the optic chiasm to the brain, can result in visual deficits affecting one or both eyes, depending on the location and extent of the lesion.
Optic Chiasm Disorders: Optic chiasm disorders involve conditions affecting the crossing point of optic nerves from both eyes. Tumors, inflammation, or vascular abnormalities in this area can result in visual field defects, specifically bitemporal hemianopsia. This defect occurs due to the crossing of optic nerve fibers at the chiasm, leading to peripheral vision loss in both eyes.
Traumatic Optic Neuropathy: Damage to the optic nerve following head trauma. This can result in varying degrees of vision loss, and the severity often depends on the extent of the injury.
Compressive Lesions: Compressive lesions, also known as compressive optic neuropathy, are characterized by tumors, aneurysms, vascular malformations, or masses situated in the brain or near the optic nerve. These structures apply pressure to the optic pathway, resulting in vision loss. Pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, and meningiomas are examples of such lesions.
Ischaemic Optic Neuropathy: Ischemic optic neuropathy is characterized by a diminished blood supply to the optic nerve, causing damage and vision loss. There are subtypes of this condition, including anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (AION) and posterior ischemic optic neuropathy (PION). It manifests as sudden vision loss or visual field defects and can be either arteritic, linked to giant cell arteritis, or non-arteritic.
Hereditary Optic Neuropathies:
Hereditary optic neuropathies in dogs encompass a range of inherited ocular disorders that affect the optic nerve and can lead to vision impairment or blindness. It's important to note that the prevalence and presentation of hereditary optic neuropathies may vary among different dog breeds. Regular veterinary examinations and ophthalmic evaluations are essential for early detection and management of these conditions to preserve the affected dog's quality of life. Some common hereditary optic neuropathies in dogs include:
Optic Nerve Hypoplasia: This is a congenital condition characterized by underdevelopment of the optic nerve, leading to vision impairment or blindness in affected dogs.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): While primarily a retinal disorder, severe forms of PRA can also affect the optic nerve, leading to optic nerve atrophy and vision loss. PRA represents a group of inherited retinal diseases characterized by progressive degeneration of photoreceptor cells in the retina and can result in blindness. Various breeds, including Labrador Retrievers, Irish Setters, and Miniature Schnauzers, are predisposed to different forms of PRA.
Optic Nerve Coloboma: Optic nerve coloboma is a developmental defect characterized by incomplete closure of the optic fissure during embryonic development. Dogs with optic nerve coloboma may experience vision impairment or blindness, depending on the extent of the defect.
Optic Nerve Drusen: Optic disc drusen, which are accumulations of fatty proteins and calcium deposits, are commonly found within the optic disc situated in the retina. While typically asymptomatic, severe cases of optic nerve drusen can lead to compression of the optic nerve fibers and subsequent vision loss in dogs. Despite the absence of a cure for this condition, it may be linked to conditions requiring management. The term "drusen" originates from a German word signifying geodes or rocks, describing these deposits that can solidify with age. Positioned at the front part of the optic nerve, the optic disc, also known as the optic nerve head, plays a crucial role in vision. While optic disc drusen can develop unilaterally in one eye, they are more frequently encountered bilaterally in both eyes, comprising about 75% of cases. In certain instances, optic disc drusen may lead to vision loss.
Hereditary Glaucoma: Certain breeds are predisposed to hereditary forms of glaucoma, a condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure that can lead to optic nerve damage and irreversible vision loss if left untreated.
Congenital Stationary Night Blindness (CSNB): CSNB is a hereditary condition characterized by impaired night vision and reduced visual acuity in affected dogs. While primarily a retinal disorder, CSNB can also impact the optic nerve function in some cases.
Primary Optic Nerve Hypoplasia: Similar to optic nerve hypoplasia, primary optic nerve hypoplasia involves underdevelopment of the optic nerve and is associated with vision impairment or blindness in affected dogs.
Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA): This is a genetic disorder that primarily affects Collies, Shetland Sheepdogs, and related breeds. CEA can involve various ocular abnormalities, including choroidal hypoplasia and colobomas, which may impact vision.
Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS): While not exclusively an optic neuropathy, SARDS is a condition that affects the retina and can lead to sudden blindness in dogs. The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to have an immune-mediated component.
Cone Degeneration (CD): This inherited condition primarily affects Alaskan Malamutes and leads to degeneration of cone photoreceptor cells in the retina. While it primarily involves the retina, advanced cases may impact visual function.
10. Toxic and Nutritional Optic Neuropathies: These are conditions where toxins or nutritional deficiencies affect the optic nerve. Toxic and nutritional optic neuropathies in dogs can result from exposure to certain substances or nutritional deficiencies, leading to damage to the optic nerve and potential vision impairment. Examples of toxic and nutritional optic neuropathies in dogs include:
Toxic Optic Neuropathies: 1. Lead Toxicity: Exposure to lead, often through ingestion of lead-containing objects or contaminated water sources, can lead to optic neuropathy in dogs. 2. Ethylene Glycol (Antifreeze) Toxicity: Ingestion of ethylene glycol, commonly found in antifreeze, can lead to systemic toxicity and may affect the optic nerve, causing visual disturbances. 3. Methyl Alcohol (Methanol) Poisoning: Consumption of substances containing methanol, such as certain solvents or windshield washer fluids, can lead to optic nerve damage in dogs. 4. Ivermectin Toxicity: Ivermectin, commonly used in some dog wormers, can lead to toxicity if administered in excessive amounts, potentially affecting the optic nerve and causing visual problems.
Nutritional Optic Neuropathies: 1. Vitamin A Deficiency: Inadequate levels of vitamin A in the diet can lead to nutritional optic neuropathy in dogs. This deficiency can result in vision problems and damage to the optic nerve. 2. Taurine Deficiency: Certain breeds, such as the American Cocker Spaniel, are prone to taurine deficiency, which can lead to retinal and optic nerve dysfunction, causing vision issues. 3. Arginine Deficiency: Arginine is an essential amino acid, and its deficiency can impact vascular health. Reduced blood flow to the optic nerve may contribute to optic neuropathy in dogs.
11. Infiltrative Optic Neuropathies: Infiltrative optic neuropathies in dogs involve the infiltration or invasion of abnormal cells or tissues into the optic nerve, where inflammatory or infiltrative processes affect the optic nerve, leading to optic nerve dysfunction and potential vision impairment. Examples of infiltrative optic neuropathies in dogs include:
Neoplasia: Tumors can infiltrate the optic nerve and surrounding tissues, causing compression, damage, and dysfunction. Examples of neoplasms that can affect the optic nerve in dogs include: - Optic nerve glioma - Meningioma - Lymphoma - Metastatic tumors from other sites
Granulomatous Inflammation: Granulomatous diseases can lead to inflammation and infiltration of the optic nerve. Conditions such as granulomatous meningoencephalitis (GME) and systemic fungal infections can affect the optic nerve and result in optic neuropathy.
Inflammatory Disorders: Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions affecting the optic nerve can lead to infiltration and damage. Disorders such as optic neuritis and uveodermatologic syndrome (Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada-like syndrome) may involve infiltration of inflammatory cells into the optic nerve.
Infectious Diseases: Certain infectious agents can infiltrate the optic nerve and surrounding tissues, leading to optic neuropathy. Examples include bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections that can affect the optic nerve directly or as part of a systemic infection.
Idiopathic Infiltrative Optic Neuropathy: In some cases, the exact cause of optic nerve infiltration may be unknown, leading to idiopathic infiltrative optic neuropathy. This diagnosis is made when other identifiable causes have been ruled out, and the infiltration remains unexplained.
12. Papilledema: Papilledema refers to swelling of the optic disc due to increased intracranial pressure. It is commonly associated with conditions such as hydrocephalus, brain tumors, or idiopathic intracranial hypertension. If left untreated, papilledema can result in permanent vision loss.
How is Vision Loss Diagnosed in Pets?
A thorough medical history is indispensable due to the potential retinal toxicity of drugs like ivermectin and its association with central blindness in both dogs and cats, alongside enrofloxacin's capacity to induce acute retinal degeneration in cats. In cases of sudden vision loss, a comprehensive neuro-ophthalmic evaluation becomes imperative, encompassing assessment of the menace response, dazzle and palpebral reflexes, and pupillary light reflexes (PLRs). Additionally, a fundic examination is crucial to exclude diffuse retinal detachment or progressive retinal degeneration, given the extensive retinal involvement required. Optic nerve lesions can also precipitate blindness, with the optic nerve head potentially appearing unremarkable in the presence of retrobulbar lesions.
An electroretinogram serves as a diagnostic tool for identifying sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) if retinal function is absent or to probe optic pathway diseases if retinal function remains intact. In instances of normal retinal function, a comprehensive neurological assessment and supplementary tests may be warranted.
Other steps used to diagnose vision loss in pets include:
Physical Examination: When you suspect vision loss in your pet, consult your veterinarian. A complete physical examination will be done to assess your pet’s overall health and look for any signs of eye problems.
Eye Assessment: The vet will examine your pet’s eyes using specialized tools. These assessments may include:
Cataracts: Clouding of the lens, often seen as a hazy, opaque white growth over the eyes. Cataracts can be associated with other illnesses like diabetes.
Glaucoma: Increased pressure within the eye, which can lead to blindness.
Retinal Detachment: A condition where the retina becomes detached, affecting vision.
Chronic Dry Eye: Insufficient tear production leading to eye discomfort.
Tumors or Cancer: These can also cause vision loss.
Behavioral Signs: Pay attention to your pet’s behavior. Signs of vision loss may include:
Bumping into walls or furniture.
Difficulty locating food or toys.
Reluctance to jump on/off furniture.
Changes in anxiety levels or clinginess.
Aggression (due to feeling vulnerable).
Gradual Adaptation: Dogs are remarkably adaptable. Sometimes, you may not notice vision loss right away because they adjust well. However, if you observe any changes, schedule an appointment with your vet.
Diagnosis of infiltrative optic neuropathies in dogs often involves a combination of clinical examination, neurologic evaluation, imaging studies (such as MRI or CT scans), and sometimes biopsy of affected tissues.
Diagnosis and management of optic pathway diseases often involve a comprehensive neurological and ophthalmic evaluation, including imaging studies like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the extent and nature of the lesions.
How is Vision Loss Treated and Managed in Pets?
Vision loss in dogs can result from various ocular conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, retinal diseases, corneal ulcers, and others. The treatment of vision loss in dogs depends on the underlying cause and the extent of the damage to the eyes. The common approaches to managing vision loss in dogs include:
1) Medications
Depending on the underlying condition, veterinarians may prescribe medications to manage symptoms and slow the progression of ocular diseases. For example, if vision loss is due to infections or inflammatory conditions, such as uveitis, topical or systemic medications like antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or immunosuppressants may be prescribed. Medications, such as topical eye drops or oral medications, may be used to manage intraocular pressure in cases of glaucoma. Timely treatment is crucial to prevent further damage to the optic nerve.
2) Managing systemic conditions
If vision loss is secondary to systemic conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, or hypertension, managing these underlying diseases is essential. Controlling blood sugar levels, providing thyroid hormone supplementation, or addressing hypertension can help preserve overall ocular health.
3) Nutritional support
Diets rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may be recommended to support retinal health and slow the progression of certain degenerative conditions affecting vision. Antioxidants are crucial for maintaining a dog's health, particularly in preventing cell damage and supporting the immune system. Some of the best antioxidants for dogs include:
a) Vitamin E:
Vitamin E is a crucial antioxidant that supports skin and coat health, immune function, and muscle health in dogs. Protects against oxidative damage and supports skin and coat health. Some of the natural foods rich in Vitamin E and beneficial to dogs include peas, salmon, broccoli, blueberries, spinach, sweet potato, peanut butter, organ meats, eggs, and vegetable Oils.
b) Vitamin C:
While dogs can produce Vitamin C in their bodies, adding foods rich in this vitamin can provide additional health benefits, especially for older dogs or those under stress or illness. It boosts the immune system and some of the natural sources of Vitamin C suitable for dogs include fruits like blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and oranges. Always offer these in moderation and ensure all seeds and pits are removed to prevent choking or toxicity. Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and kale are also rich in Vitamin C but should be given in moderation. Note that some of these vegetables may not be suitable for dogs with specific health issues, like hypothyroid dogs. Supplements derived from fruit can be added to your dog’s diet as a concentrated source of Vitamin C. Although Vitamin C is generally safe for dogs, excessive amounts can lead to stomach upset or diarrhoea.
c) Beta-Carotene:
Beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A, an essential nutrient that supports vision, skin and coat health, and immune function. For dogs, incorporating natural sources of beta-carotene into their diet can offer health benefits. Some of the natural foods rich in beta-carotene include Carrots, Spinach, Cantaloupe and
Tomatoes.
d) Selenium:
Works in conjunction with vitamin E to protect cells and support a healthy immune system. Selenium is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in maintaining the health of your dog. It supports various bodily functions, including metabolism and thyroid function, and contributes to antioxidant activity that protects cells from damage. Some of the natural foods rich in selenium that can be safe and beneficial for dogs when given in appropriate amounts include Fish, meat, eggs and Brazil Nuts. Excessive selenium intake can lead to toxicity, with symptoms including gastrointestinal upset, hair loss, and lethargy.
e) Lutein:
Lutein is a type of carotenoid antioxidant that is beneficial for eye health, helping to reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. It's also thought to support skin health and may play a role in preventing heart disease. Lutein is not synthesized by the body, so it must be obtained through diet. Some of the natural foods that are particularly rich in lutein include kale, spinach, broccoli, corn, eggs, green peas and oranges
f) Taurine:
An amino acid that is vital for heart health, particularly in certain breeds prone to heart disease. Taurine is an essential amino acid for some animals, notably cats, and a beneficial nutrient for dogs, supporting cardiovascular health, eye health, and more. While humans and dogs can synthesize taurine from other amino acids, it's crucial for the diet of certain pets, like cats, to be supplemented with taurine. Some natural foods high in taurine include seafood, meat, organ meats and dairy
g) Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA):
Omega fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, are essential for dogs' health, contributing to improved skin and coat health, reduced inflammation, and support for cognitive and heart health. While many commercial dog foods are formulated to include these essential fatty acids, incorporating natural sources into your dog's diet can provide additional benefits. Some of the natural foods rich in omega fatty acids that are beneficial to dogs include fish, flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts
and fish oil supplements
h) Curcumin (Turmeric):
Curcumin is the active compound found in turmeric, a spice that comes from the turmeric root. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. While turmeric is the primary source of curcumin, it is not absorbed well into the bloodstream without the help of certain additives. Curcumin can naturally be introduced to dogs in a way that they can better absorb its benefits by taking turmeric root, turmeric powder, golden paste or turmeric supplements
i) Green Tea Extract:
Contains polyphenols that may reduce cancer risk and improve heart health. Green tea extract is becoming increasingly recognized for its potential health benefits for dogs, which include immune system support, cancer treatment supplement plus antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties.
j) Resveratrol:
Resveratrol is a naturally occurring antioxidant known for its potential health benefits, including anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer properties.and heart-health properties. While direct studies on dogs might be limited, resveratrol's overall health benefits make it a compound of interest for pet owners. Some of the natural sources include Grapes and Berries, Peanuts, Japanese Knotweed
4) Surgery
Surgical intervention may be necessary to treat certain conditions causing vision loss in dogs. Procedures such as cataract surgery can restore vision in dogs with cataracts where Intraocular lens implants can be placed to restore vision after cataract removal, while surgical treatments for glaucoma may include laser therapy or placement of drainage shunts to improve the drainage of intraocular fluid.
5) Lifestyle and Environmental Modifications
Dogs with vision loss may benefit from modifications to their environment to help them navigate and adapt to their surroundings. This may include keeping your home layout consistent with furniture and objects always left in consistent locations to help your pet navigate their surroundings. Avoid rearranging furniture or introducing new obstacles, use textured mats, non-slip flooring or rugs to define pathways, and providing auditory cues to assist the dog in navigating unfamiliar spaces.
Awareness: When kids come home, ask them not to leave backpacks in the middle of the floor to prevent tripping.
Supportive Care: Providing additional supportive care and attention to the needs of dogs with vision loss is important for maintaining their quality of life. This may include regular veterinary check-ups to monitor the progression of ocular diseases, providing a balanced diet to support overall health, using verbal cues, tactile signals, maintaining a consistent routine to help them adapt to their surroundings, use of special toys and treats with scents to engage them which ensures that the dog receives adequate mental and physical stimulation.
Behavioral Training: Dogs with vision loss can often adapt and learn to rely on their other senses, such as hearing and smell, to navigate their environment. Behavioral training techniques, including verbal cues and positive reinforcement, can help dogs develop new ways of interacting with their surroundings and build confidence in their abilities.
Ongoing Monitoring and Management: Vision loss in dogs may be progressive, and ongoing monitoring by a veterinarian is essential to assess the dog's condition and adjust treatment as needed. Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection and better outcomes. Remember, even with reduced vision, pets can adapt well if they feel secure in their surroundings. Regular eye examinations can help identify changes in ocular health and guide treatment decisions to optimize the dog's quality of life.
It's also worth noting that in cases where vision loss cannot be effectively treated or managed, the focus shifts to providing comfort and maximizing the dog's remaining senses to ensure their well-being and improving the dog's quality of life and managing any concurrent health issues.
References
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