The cornea is frequently a source of trouble in canine patients. We see many cases of corneal ulcers in dogs, and most of these are due to trauma of some sort to the corneal surface. Although most are fairly superficial, ulcers can extend through the corneal tissue and enter the anterior chamber. Such a corneal perforation is very serious, and threatens the vision in the eye. Signs of corneal ulcers are similar to those of conjunctivitis.
Diagnosis is made through application of a fluorescent stain to the cornea.
Normal corneal tissue will not absorb the stain, but any areas of ulceration will stain readily. Most superficial ulcers heal well with antibiotic therapy to prevent infection as long as there is no ongoing corneal trauma. Deep or infected ulcers require more vigorous treatment up to and including surgery in some cases. One note about corneal ulcers. Although they heal quickly in most situations, they can also rapidly become much worse.