Is More Serious Than It Looks...
A Devastating Disease That Can Lead To Blindness
Canine dry eye, technically called keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS, is a disease of the eye that occur due to dryness or a lack of tear production. Tears play a very important role in keeping eyes healthy by providing moisture and lubrication, removing foreign matter and debris, and serving as a source of oxygen and nutrients. They also have antibacterial properties. If left untreated dog with KCS suffer constant irritation which can result in scarring of the cornea and possible blindness.
Who Is At Risk
Dry eye usually affects middle-to-older age dogs, but can be seen in younger dogs as well. This disease can affect any dog, purebred or mixed breed, but the incidence of dry eye is well documented in the following breeds:
Signs Of Dry Eye
The clinical signs that may occur in an eye that lacks tear production are:
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Accumulaton of mucus in the corners of the eye
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Redness/swelling
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Dry.dull cornea
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Squinting and rubbing the eye
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Sealed appearance of the eye, in severe cases
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Loss of corneal transparency
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Possible presence of corneal ulcers
You Can Help - Have Your Pet Tested 
A diagnosis of KCS is based on clinical signs and the relults of the Schirmer tear test - an easy method of measuring tear production. Your veterinarian will place a small strip specialized filter paper on the edge of your pet's lower eyelid. After one minute, the amount of moisture absorbed by the filter paper is measured. The measurement is the compared to predetermined standards to inentify if tear production is below normal the test takes minutes and is totally painless.
Schering-Plough Animal Health copyright ©1996, Schering Corporation U.S.A
Makers of Optimmune
While there is no cure for canine dry eye, it can be treated daily with Optimmune® (cyclosporine) Ophthalmic Ointment. If your dog is diagnosed, follow all instructions given to you by your veterinarian. Doing so will help maintain quality of life for the life of your pet.
Special Note:
Please be careful and have your dog tested if you think he is having an eye problem. My Chase has it and she is doing very well right now.. So even Shelties do get this!
