Canine eyes are a complex organ allowing perception of color, forms, and depth. Careful inspection and examination of the eyes can help diagnose local or systemic problems. Inherited and acquired eye diseases exist in all dog breeds, including Portuguese Water Dogs. The PWD breed is vulnerable to certain inherited eye diseases, which can lead to vision impairment or loss. Some eye issues are acquired and occur with aging (cataracts, dry eyes, glaucoma), injury (corneal abrasions), or environmental exposure (allergens). Eye issues can be caused by other health concerns, such as hypertension, diabetes, chronic dental disease, and cancer. Since dogs cannot communicate changes in vision, it is up to the owner to be proactive about eye health. Dogs may show red eyes, tearing, squinting, excessive blinking, thick eye discharge, rubbing of the eyes or head, or vision loss. These signs should alert the owner to an array of possible eye ailments. Careful observation and routine ophthalmology exams are crucial in maintaining healthy eyesight.

• Microphthalmia Syndrome (MOS-PWD):  also known as “Puppy Eye Syndrome.” This genetically transmitted (autosomal recessive) disease affects both eyes and is distinguished by a small globe and may be accompanied by persistent papillary membranes, glaucoma, retinal degeneration, cataracts, stunted growth, low platelet count, anemia, and possible behavioral issues. DNA testing is now available through PennGen.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): this disease is irreversible and progressive, causing photoreceptor cells to deteriorate, eventually leading to total blindness.  Most PRA is autosomal recessive but other forms have been identified. Although PRA cannot be diagnosed by eye exam until the dog is around 3-6 years of age, genetic testing is available to determine which dogs are carriers.

• Early Onset Progressive Retinal Atrophy (EOPRA): an inherited, subtype of PRA causing early onset blindness. Visual deficits begin around 2-3 years of age. Genetic testing is available.

• Cataracts: opacity of lens; a common cause of visual impairment in the older dog.  

• Distichiasis: eyelashes abnormally emerge from the eyelid margin and can cause chronic eye pain and corneal abrasions.

• Retinal Dysplasia: retinal folding  (partial or complete), which may resolve with maturity.

• Persistent Pupillary Membranes (PPM): are remnants of blood vessels that do not properly regress during the newborn period.

• Injury: examples are foreign body (dust and dirt) or corneal trauma (blunt or sharp injury or chemical burns).

• Infection: can be viral, bacterial, allergic, or fungal.

• Keroconjunctivitis Sicca (dry eyes): an autoimmune condition that causes lack of tears to properly lubricate the eyes and can lead to sore, itchy, infected eyes.

References:

This article was adapted from the following online sources: (1) PWDCA PWD Health Conditions: Eyes (2) OFA.org Companion Animal Eye Registry CAER Overview, (3) AVCO.org PRA article by Dr. Brady Beale, VMD (January 2018), (4) AKCCHF.org “Canine Eye Health” (November 8, 2013),  (5) The New York Times: “Does Your Pet Need an Eye Exam” (June 6, 2017), (6) Purina Pro Club “American Fanciers Embrace the Portuguese Water Dog,” (7) University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, “Inherited Ocular Diseases: Using CAER Exams to Show We Care” (May 11, 2021), (8) VMCLI “Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) Exams” by Dr. Noelle La Croix, DVM.            

Canine bowel obstruction commonly occurs when foreign material is ingested and becomes partially or completely lodged in the intestines. The obstruction prevents food and water from passing through the gastrointestinal tract and can lead to decreased blood flow, malabsorption, bowel deterioration, and more.

Common objects causing bowel obstruction include ingestion of bones, balls, toys, rocks, orthodontic retainers, corncobs, clothing (underwear, bras, socks), fruit pits, and feminine hygiene products. Linear objects, such as thread, string, yarn, tampons and rope, are especially dangerous because they cause twisting and telescoping of the bowel. Ingestion of a wire orthodontic retainers can lead to perforations and bleeding in the digestive tract.

Signs of bowel obstruction include loss of appetite, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, straining to stool, lethargy, restlessness, and arching of the back. 

Seek veterinary care immediately if blockage is suspected. If left untreated, bowel obstruction can cause pain, dehydration, intestinal perforation, and death. The veterinarian will complete a thorough history and exam and may obtain an abdominal x-ray or ultrasound to confirm the presence and location of the foreign object, provide subcutaneous or intravenous fluids, or administer pain and anti-nausea medication.  If the foreign material does not pass in the stool, surgery may be required to remove the object. The first 72 hours post-op are the most critical in the recovery process.

Prevention is key! Always monitor your dog while playing with toys or bones, dispose of any toys that are broken, splintered, or shredded, place harmful objects out of reach, and keep garbage containers sealed at all times. Keeping your dog fully enriched can also help to prevent them from looking for alternative means of engagement. Our Winter 2023 News Buoy linked here goes into detail on various enrichment tools for our dogs! Bowel obstruction surgery is expensive. The cost depends on extent of the surgery, the duration of the obstruction, length of hospital stay, and general health of your dog. Consider purchasing insurance for your dog - shop around for a policy that meets the health needs of your dog and your budget.

For more information, see what the AKC has to say about obstructions.

Another weed that can cause issues for our dogs, Marijuana, THC, CBD, and other derivative have become more and more common with legal support nation wide. With these substances readily available, don't forget to keep them out of the reach of your dogs to prevent toxicity issues. To learn more, visit the links below!

Marijuana Toxicity from UC Davis

THC CBD Poisoning with VCA

Whole Dog Journal on what to do if your dog ingests Marijuana