Oh My Dog! Your Boston Terrier Has a Cherry Eye? Don't Freak Out, We've Got This!
So, your once-perky Boston Terrier is sporting a bright red bulge in their eye. Hold on to your polka-dotted bandanas, because that's cherry eye, and while it sounds fancy, it's actually a prolapsed tear gland. Don't worry, it's treatable, and with a little know-how, your pup will be back to their mischievous self in no time!
How To Treat Cherry Eye In Boston Terrier |
What Exactly is Cherry Eye?
Imagine your Boston's eye is a fancy apartment building. The tear gland is like the super chill tenant who keeps things lubricated and dust-free. In cherry eye, that tenant gets evicted and ends up hanging out on the balcony – the red bulge you see. This eviction can be caused by roughhousing, allergies, or even just plain bad luck.
Signs and Symptoms: Is it Cherry Eye or Just Tired of Looking at Your Socks?
Let's face it, Bostons are masters of expression. Here's what to look for to tell the difference between a dramatic eyeroll and a genuine cherry eye situation:
- The Big Red Bulge: This is the giveaway. It'll be right there in the corner of your pup's eye, looking all sassy and unwelcome.
- Squinting and Pawing: Cherry eye can be irritating, so your Boston might be squinting or trying to scratch the itch with their handy dandy paw.
- Discharge: Sometimes, a cherry eye can lead to a little gunky discharge.
Important Note: If your Boston is experiencing any of these symptoms, don't play vet! Head to your actual veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
Treatment Options: From Fancy Stitches to Super Chill Eye Massages (Maybe)
Here's the deal: cherry eye usually requires surgery. The good news is, it's a pretty straightforward procedure where the vet basically evicts the evicted tenant and puts them back in their rightful place. There's a fancy term for it – repositioning the gland – but you get the idea.
While surgery is the main treatment, sometimes vets might try some other things first, like:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: To calm things down and make your Boston more comfortable.
- Artificial tears: To keep that evicted tear gland from getting too dry and sad.
- Massage: In very rare cases, a gentle massage might help pop the gland back into place, but this is usually not a long-term solution.
Remember: These are just temporary measures. Talk to your vet about the best course of action for your furry friend.
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
FAQ: Cherry Eye Edition
How to stop my Boston from getting cherry eye?
Unfortunately, there's no guaranteed way to prevent cherry eye, but keeping your pup healthy and avoiding rough play might help.
How long does cherry eye surgery take?
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Cherry eye surgery is usually a quick outpatient procedure, taking around 30 minutes to an hour.
How long does it take for my Boston to recover from cherry eye surgery?
Recovery time is usually a week or two, with an Elizabethan collar (cone of shame) being your Boston's new fashion statement for a while.
Reminder: Short breaks can improve focus.
How much does cherry eye surgery cost?
Costs can vary depending on your location and vet, but expect to pay somewhere between $500 and $1500.
Can cherry eye come back?
There's a small chance cherry eye can recur, but the success rate of surgery is pretty high.
So there you have it! Cherry eye might look scary, but with a trip to the vet and maybe a cone of shame fashion show, your Boston Terrier will be back to their playful self in no time. Now go forth and conquer those squirrels (safely, of course)!