Giving Back to Service Dogs During National Service Dog Eye Examination Month

May is National Service Dog Eye Examination Month, dedicated to preventative eyecare for the loyal canine companions instrumental in helping people with disabilities navigate their daily lives. 

How Can a Service Dog Qualify?

Qualifying animals may be pre-registered for appointments at participating clinics where volunteer veterinary ophthalmologists offer their services. Owners or handlers must bring a dog, proof of the animal's training, and the registration confirmation to their appointments. Appointments are forfeited for animals that arrive without the necessary documents.

What Happens During the Exam?

The exam lasts approximately 20 minutes and involves using a slit lamp to examine various parts of a dog's eyes, including the:

• Cornea

• Conjunctiva

• Iris

• Retina

• Lens

• Eyelid

An additional 20 minutes is allotted if the ophthalmologist performs pupil dilation. Early detection of cataracts and other abnormalities allows a dog to undergo treatment to continue performing its vital role. 

A Schirmer test involves placing a strip of filter paper in the dog's eyelid to measure tear production and assess dry eye disease that could negatively impact vision. Fluorescein dye staining highlights corneal abrasions and tonometry with the administration of an anesthetic eye drop, and intraocular pressure is measured to check for a possible glaucoma diagnosis.

To schedule a wellness visit or eye exam for your service dog or another pet, contact our dedicated team of veterinarians at Pet Hospitals of Hawaii.