Dry eye, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is a result of insufficient tear production that can cause ulceration of the cornea and even blindness. There are many causes of KCS, but the Shih tzu breed is genetically predisposed to immune-mediated dry eye which is caused by the destruction of the glands that produce tears. When present, KCS typically occurs in both eyes, but the problem can start in just one. Early symptoms include redness, swelling and a discharge seeping from the eye. The pain a dog experiences from untreated KCS can be mild to extreme and unrelenting.
When diagnosed and treated early, KCS is easily managed in most cases. If you suspect your Shih tzu has dry eye see your veterinarian immediately. Delaying treatment is costly to your pocket book, but more importantly, to your dog’s comfort and eye health.
Why do I know so much about dry eye in Shih tzus? Because our little rescue dog, Gypsy, was suffering from severe and severely neglected KCS when we found her. Her right eye was badly ulcerated and it was obvious that her vision was impaired. Her left eye, though also suffering, was not as advanced. Knowing that Gypsy was not yet officially adopted at her preliminary checkup, our hero veterinarian Dr. Bob was candid about her condition – letting us know that the worst case scenario would be costly (removal of her eye) and the best case scenario meant life-long treatment.
Of course, understanding that her advanced condition was the direct result of neglect only made us want her more, and knowing that there are other potential Shih tzu companions that may hesitate to adopt a pet with dry eye I’m happy to share what I’ve learned about caring for a dog with this ailment.
What to Expect if your Shih tzu has Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca
- · Vet bills! The diagnostic test for KCS is the Schrimer 1 tear test. It’s easily administered and not too costly on its own. If it’s determined that your dog has KCS you’ll likely be asked to treat her eyes with a variety of creams and drops and bring her back for weekly or even bi-weekly check-ups. Fortunately, my vet’s office doesn’t charge for follow-up visits, but including medications, Gypsy’s initial care still cost several hundred dollars. Costs and Gypsy’s future could have been much worse if one or both eyes required removal.
- · Daily eye-drops. It’s not difficult and you can use inexpensive “human” saline eye drops, but it is a practice that has to be continued for the rest of the dog’s life. Typically, drops need to be administered 2 or 3 times a day.
- · Chronic eye gunk. Discharge may continue to be an issue even after your dog’s KCS has been treated (though it should be greatly reduced, if not, consult your vet). Small clots of gunk gather and harden in the fur at the corners of my dog’s eyes. I find the gentlest way to clean the dried discharge is to moisten the area with wet fingers, rub lightly and repeat until the bits loosen between my fingers.
So what’s my advice to anyone contemplating adopting a dog with dry eye? Do it! Your care can restore a dog’s vision, release them from pain and improve the quality of their future.
With Dr. Bob’s excellent and persistent care, Gypsy’s pain was quickly relieved and the ulcerated cornea that threatened to erupt was improved. Though permanent damage remains, today she appears to have functional vision and no new ulcerations. The icing on the dog biscuit is that she is a happy, loving little dog who is finally getting the attention she deserves. Yay Dr. Bob! Yay Gypsy!
References:
Universities Federation for Animal Welfare: Genetic Welfare Problems of Companion Animals
