Ophthalmology Referral Services
Consultations
We see an array of species for ophthalmology referrals, but most commonly horses, dogs and cats. Usually we will have either spoken to your own vet before seeing you, or had a letter from them. We will have received a full medical history from them, so we are aware what conditions have previously been diagnosed and what treatments have been used already.
Download Consultations Information Sheet
Emergencies
What is an emergency? If you notice any of the following symptoms, please seek professional advice urgently:
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- A painful eye (unable to open normally)
- The surface of the eye becomes cloudy or blue over a short period of time
- Marked redness/swelling of the eye or structures around it
- Trauma to the eye (bleeding, damaged eyeball or eyelids, foreign matter in eye)
Download Emergencies Information Sheet
Cataracts
What are cataracts? The lens is situated approximately in the centre of the eye. In the normal animal it is clear and functions to focus light on the back of the eye (the retina), contributing to vision. A cataract is an opacity in the lens, which depending on its size and density can affect vision and eventually lead to blindness.
Download Cataract Surgery Information Sheet
Lens Luxation
What is lens luxation? The lens is situated approximately in the centre of the eye. In the normal animal it is clear, and held firmly in position by fine fibres all the way around it’s circumference called zonules. Its job is to focus light onto the back of the eye (the retina).
Download Lens Luxation Information Sheet
Distichia and ectopic cilia
Distichia are extra eyelashes, which appear along the eyelid margin. These usually erupt within the first few years of life and can grow on either lid and one or both eyes. They are mainly seen in dogs, and some breeds are more frequently affected.
Download Distichia and Ectopic Cilia Information Sheet
Glaucoma
The eye is full of fluid, which is constantly produced within and drained from the eye. In some circumstances, the drainage of this fluid may be impaired, leading to an increased pressure within the eye, and developement of glaucoma. The pressure in the eye is measured during a consultation with a device called a tonometer.
Download Glaucoma Information Sheet
Hereditary Eye Disease Screening
This scheme is operated by the British Veterinary Association, in conjunction with the Kennel Club and the International Sheep Dog Society. It is in place to examine pedigree dogs for inherited conditions of the eye.
Download Hereditary Eye Disease Screening Information Sheet
Entropion and Ectropion
Entropion is the in-turning of some or all of the upper or lower eyelid. This causes significant discomfort because the haired skin and eyelashes contact the surface of the eye, which can result in a corneal ulcer.
Download Entropion and Ectropion Information Sheet
Conditions of the Third Eyelid
The third eyelid is a normal anatomical feature in dogs and cats, but is usually only just visible in the conscious animal. The most common condition of the third eyelid is prolapse of the gland.
Download Conditions of the Third Eyelid Information Sheet
Corneal Ulcer
A corneal ulcer is an area of damage to the surface of the eye. They can occur in any species, but are most frequently diagnosed in horses, dogs and cats. Corneal ulcers are usually uncomfortable and if left untreated, can be sight-threatening.
Download Corneal Ulceration Information Shee
Dry Eye
Dry eye is most commonly reported in dogs, but can occur in other species. Tears are produced by two glands near the eye, and these have an important role in lubrication, and cleanse the eye of debris.
Download Dry Eye Information Sheet
Other Referral Services
- Orthopaedic
- Acupuncture
- Laser Therapy
- Shockwave Therapy
- H Wave and Therapeutic Ultrasound