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Originally Posted by Ladymom  Lady's ophthalmologist told me the same thing, that some dogs can be allergic to their saliva.
It's definitely not a simple procedure. I spoke to Dr. English about it four years ago, though. I'm sure it has improved since then.
Can you get a second opinion from an ophthalmologist in private practice? That way you can weigh the pros and cons. Not getting the surgery done doesn't mean Maddie will never need eye surgery. Ulcers are so common with KCS and they can require surgery. Lady came very close to needing surgery to remove an infection that had actually penetrated the surface of her eye a few years ago. Thank heavens we caught it early enough and $1,000 later it did clear up with topical antibiotics. Lady has also had uveitis twice which is terribly painful. |
The Dr. at UT was more concerned with her not producing enough saliva. In successful cases, dogs usually have to have feedings,snacks every few hours to continue the saliva production. However, it is common with dogs having KCS, to have lower saliva production. Both he and her vet mentioned several times that salt crystals form in the eye from the saliva. This irritates the cornea and can be so significant that it warrants a further operation to close it off.
I may seek a second opinion, however, I really trust her vet and felt like th UT specialist knew what he was talking about, not looking at her as a potential costly surgery. You know?