Field Spaniel Opthalmic Health Issues

Entropian

In this condition, the eyelids are turned somewhat inward so that the eyelashes contact the surface of the eyeball. The condition is highly irritating and has the potential to cause severe problems. Treatment is generally surgical.

Ectropian

More commonly seen than entropian, ectropian may be simply termed "loose lids". Symptoms will vary depending on the severity of the entropian. Overtly hanging, loose lids provide an area for dust and debris to collect and frequent or continual eye infection is a probability. Treatment will range from topical eye ointments prescribed by a veterinarian to surgical intervention to "tuck up" the loose lids.

Retinal Folds/Retinal Dysplasia

This disorder is often first seen on examination by a veterinary ophthalmologist in young puppies at around 8 weeks of age. It is a good reason that all puppies should have a puppy eye check as folds often disappear as the eye grows and matures. Generally causing no problems to the affected animal based on reports by owners of affected animals, it is a consideration for breeding and rated by the American Academy of Veterinary Ophthalmologists as a "caution" point in terms of breeding because “geographic” folds may affect visual acuity while single folds are often not an issue.

Cataract

This is an opaque spot on the eye that may range from pinpoint with no loss of visual acuity to large and affecting vision. Cataracts may be inherited or not heritable. Treatment, if required, is surgical to remove the cataract.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy “PRA”

Though this disorder appears to be rare in the Field Spaniel, this devastating disorder does appear on the list of heritable diseases for the breed. It is a disorder that often does not appear until an animal is mature. The dog will slowly go blind. There is no cure. Symptoms develop gradually, often first noticed as a night-time blindness.

Resources: Take the time to learn more about it!

¨ Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF)

· Orthopedic Problems

· Eye Problems

· Other Health Issues