Eye Problems in The Kerry Blue Terrier
Compiled from Daryl Enstone's posts on the KerryBlues-L
newslist.
Copyright
© 2003 Kerry Blue Terrier Foundation
Because of the facial hair, eye infections in Kerries can be common.
The facial hair does
protect the eyes in some circumstances. However, the hair can
be the cause of the problem if it is frequently getting into the
eyes. This probably varies between dogs because variations in
the coat texture and curl may mean that some dogs will frequently
have hair in the eyes, while in others it may occur rarely.
If you have a problem, make sure that vet will treat your dog but not the symptoms of a disease. The problem can be the result of a cold or allergy.
If eye infections or irritations recur despite full courses of antibiotic treatment, further investigation is necessary. I had a Kerry which I kept dragging back to the vet for red (although not always infected) eyes until the vet was completely frustrated. Finally, after several recurring infections, he did a tear production test (Schirmer tear test) and found he had dry eye syndrome.
An excellent resource page for eye problems in dogs is:
I have consulted with this specialist and he is very good and reputable.
Editor's note:
An interesting web site about dog vision: http://www.vetinfo.com/dogsee.html
Are Kerries color-blind? Find out at http://www.uwsp.edu/acad/psych/dog/dvision.htm
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