Cataract Eye Surgery for Dogs
 

All,

My girl Daisy is getting up there, 13 last January.

She is a Lab.

She has cataracts and it is affecting her. She seems far sighted and very apprehensive about walking on low contrast surfaces in dim light.

The surgery is pricy, but if it will improve her quality of life, IMHO, would be worth it.

Can you all provide me insight, your experiences and opinions (cause you will) on doing this.

From what I understand there are no guarantees....

It can make a significant difference in their vision. It did for our lab anyway. She was born blind in both eyes but they could do surgery on one and she sees well enough on that side.

My late wife was an ophthalmologist. Cataract surgery requires a high degree of skill, but the complication rate is low.

You will want to go to an ophthalmic vet, and who has done lots of procedures. Some pet owners just get one eye done, since dogs can rely more on their senses of smell and hearing than humans can.

Get your vet's advice about checking, and correcting your dog's visual acuity, before they put the new lens in.

I've had several labs over the years, and my favorite dog ever was a Lab. She knew exactly what I was thinking, without a word, and was a constant companion. Still miss her.

That said, none of them lived to see 14 years. I wouldn't put the dog or yourself through eye surgery at that age.

Hey Dan.....sorry cannot offer any insight but wishing Daisy well and sending pawsitive vibes your way!

First things first; Daisy is fine, the vet is amazed at her health. She is a very positive pup, I love that about her.

He had a simple test, he recommended an obstacle course. She passed with flying colors. His theory is that she is just apprehensive of shiny floors for fear of slipping.

Had a non-healing benign tumor removed and she is sitting here at my feet enjoying her pain meds. She is a great gal!

Daisy and I thank you all for your input.

Good to hear, Dan...scritches to your girl!

Our golden is 13.5. She also has cataracts but dogs adapt better than we do. I’d never put her through that at her age. Sounds like you don’t have to either.