Vision After a Pug's Corneal Ulcer Healed
by Ann
(Louisiana)
Bo initially had the procedure where the third eyelid is stitched but that failed - the stitches pulled through after three days.
Then, because our veterinarian was on a short vacation (July 4), Bo only had medications but four days later his eye was stitched shut and it stayed that way for three weeks after which time our veterinarian said the ulceration had healed and we started a regimen of steroid eye drops three times a day, which we are still doing as of August 19.
Bo's eye looks good but not normal. It looks like he has on a slightly opaque contact lens with a tiny indentation in the center. Our veterinarian wants to see him in two weeks.
My question is what is the prognosis for future vision? I've read everything I can find to read and nowhere have I found anything that says how the dog's vision will be effected. I've found sites that refer to "complete healing" but does that really mean the cornea is healed to the way it was originally?
Bo seems to see O.K. He does a few things that make me know something isn't right but he doesn't run into anything, doesn't mis-judge distances, and he never shows any attention to
I am vision impaired myself. I want more than anything on earth to believe Bo's vision will be normal but dare I even think such a thing? Both of my eyes are damaged and I can't help thinking if one of Bo's eyes is damaged and the other is normal, what on earth will his vision be like?
I would be so appreciative of any advice or information. I am so worried and my veterinarian doesn't seem to take my concern seriously.
Thank you so much.
Ann
A healed corneal ulcer often leaves a scar, which looks like a faint haze, and sometimes a slight dent where tissue was lost. A small scar off-center usually affects vision very little. A dense scar in the center can blur vision on that side, but most dogs adapt well. Some haze fades over months, especially once your vet treats the inflammation after the ulcer has fully closed.
Steroid drops are used only after a stain test shows the ulcer has healed, so keep the rechecks and stop the drops and call your vet right away if Bo starts squinting again. Pugs are prone to ulcers because of their prominent eyes, so ask your vet about lubricating drops and a tear test to help prevent another one.
See corneal ulcers in dogs for more on healing.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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