A corneal ulcer is like a burst blister on the surface of the clear part of the eye (the cornea).
Ulcers are painful and if they become infected or erode deep into the eye they can cause permanent scar tissue which interferes with vision.
The vet will check to see how deep the ulcer is. Serious ulcers can erode the eye deeply which can put the eye in danger. [4] X Research source
Rarely, the vet may need to put the Boston terrier under full anesthetic to lightly puncture the surface of the eye. This helps healing cells latch onto the ulcer so that it also heals.
Boston terriers need the extra protection that they get from the whiskers. Whiskers give them an extra sense of location and warning of danger so they don’t knock into objects.
Boston terriers inherit this condition where fluid builds up between the layers of cells in the corneal. Eventually, painful ulcers on the eye develop. [5] X Research source Corneal endothelial dystrophy in the dog. Martin & Dice. JAAHA 18, 327-336
The vet will also check your dog’s eye pressure to rule out other eye conditions.
Your dog will probably need an antibiotic eye cream to treat the ulcers.
Surgery can prevent ulcers, but it may cause scarring that can damage your dog’s vision. If your dog doesn’t have ulcers and you notice he’s in pain, see the vet immediately. Ulcers may be forming.
The job of the third eye is to travel across the cornea to protect it. The third eye also has a gland that makes tear fluid to lubricate the eye.
Veterinarians are unsure what causes cherry eye, but it’s thought that the connective tissue around the gland weakens. This can cause the gland to pop forward.
If you’re unsure about surgery, the vet may offer to try steroid ointments. If these don’t work, you may choose the surgery.
Dry eyes are more common in middle-aged to older dogs. Boston terriers are prone to developing dry eyes.
Dry eyes can also be a result of trauma like scratches or infections. [16] X Research source
The vet will also check your dog’s eye pressure to rule out glaucoma and will look for corneal ulcers which could be causing the inflammation.
If the vet prescribes a medication to encourage tear production, you’ll most likely need to use it twice a day, dropping to once a day after the eyes improve.
The Boston terrier is a breed that is genetically predisposed to developing cataracts early in life or as part of the aging process.
Bumping into things. Not recognizing people. Misjudging distances.
If your dog is older, the vet will determine if your dog has cataracts or if his eyes are simply changing as part of the aging process.
You could also consider getting the cataract broken down by a laser. This procedure is called phacoemulsion. It’s also an expensive specialist procedure.
