Oh My Dog! My Boston Terrier Has a Cherry Eye! Don't Freak Out (Yet)
Let's face it, seeing a bulge pop out of your Boston Terrier's adorable eye is enough to make anyone do a double take. But fear not, fellow dog lovers, because this dramatic-sounding condition, known as cherry eye, might not be the cherry on top of an eye-pocalypse you imagine.
What Exactly is Cherry Eye?
Imagine your Boston Terrier has a built-in third eyelid (fancy, right?). This eyelid has a special gland that helps keep their peepers lubricated. Cherry eye happens when this gland decides to play peek-a-boo and pops out of its usual spot, leaving a red, bulging surprise that kind of resembles a cherry (hence the name).
Fun Fact: While cherry eye sounds scary, it's usually not painful for your dog. Although, it might look a little unsettling, like your pup is perpetually surprised by everything.
Why Does This Happen to My Perfectly Precious Boston?
The exact cause of cherry eye is a bit of a doggy mystery, but some theories suggest it could be linked to:
- Genetics: Some breeds, like Boston Terriers (thanks a bunch, short-snouted genes!), are more predisposed to it.
- Rough Play: Those playful Boston Terrier antics might be a bit too much for their delicate eye structures sometimes.
- Inflammation: If your pup has allergies or other eye problems, it could increase the risk of cherry eye.
Uh Oh, My Boston Terrier Has a Cherry! What Do I Do?
While cherry eye might look like cause for alarm, here's the good news: it's usually not an emergency. However, a trip to the vet is definitely recommended. They can:
- Confirm it's cherry eye and not something more serious.
- Check for any irritation or dryness in the eye.
- Discuss treatment options (more on that later).
In the meantime, avoid rubbing or poking your dog's eye. This can irritate it further. Just try to distract them with a squeaky toy or their favorite treat and let the vet handle the rest.
Treatment: Tucking the Cherry Back In (or Not)
There are two main approaches to treating cherry eye:
- Non-surgical: Sometimes, the vet can gently massage the gland back into place. Think of it like a doggy eye-tuck, but way less glamorous.
- Surgery: If non-surgical methods don't work or the cherry eye keeps popping back out, a quick surgical procedure can permanently reposition the gland. It's a pretty straightforward surgery, and most Bostons bounce back quickly.
Remember, the best course of treatment depends on your individual dog and the severity of the cherry eye. Your vet will advise you on the best option.
FAQ: Cherry Eye in Boston Terriers - Frequently Asked Questions
How to prevent cherry eye? Unfortunately, there's no guaranteed way to prevent cherry eye, but keeping your Boston Terrier up-to-date on eye exams and avoiding rough play around the face can help.
How to clean a cherry eye? While you shouldn't scrub or prod at the cherry eye, your vet might recommend using gentle eye wipes or solutions to keep the area clean and prevent irritation.
How long does cherry eye surgery take? Cherry eye surgery is usually a quick outpatient procedure, often taking less than an hour.
How much does cherry eye surgery cost? The cost can vary depending on your location and vet, but typically ranges from $200 to $1000.
How long does it take for a Boston Terrier to recover from cherry eye surgery? Recovery is usually quick, with most dogs back to their normal selves within a week or two.
So, there you have it! Cherry eye, while not ideal, is usually treatable and shouldn't send you into a tailspin. With a little vet care and maybe some calming belly rubs for your Boston Terrier, those peepers will be back to their shiny, cherry-free selves in no time.
