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PATIENT STORIES

One In A Dozen

Published on October 14, 2019.
Last Updated November 24, 2021.
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One friend’s experience with Ophthalmology

What is one of the first things you should do when you get a puppy? Well besides a cuddle, it’s important to get them checked over by a veterinarian because each breed is predisposed to certain illnesses.

For the 12 Great Dane puppies that presented to SASH, the owner wanted to make sure their eyes were healthy.

Great Danes might be large, but they can be affected by congenitally small eyes (microphthalmia), cataracts and abnormal eyelashes (distichia) when they are puppies. The eye disease glaucoma is also very common, although not something that would be picked up in an examination when they are puppies.

Unsurprisingly, it wasn’t hard to find staff members willing to help cuddle these beautiful pups while Dr Allyson Groth from the SASH Ophthalmology department checked them over.

Dr Groth found that all of the puppies were very healthy, although one will need a minor eyelid lift. This will most likely be a temporary fix that may need permanent correction when the pup reaches maturity (around one year of age).

If this problem isn’t addressed, the drooping eyelid could rub the cornea (the transparent layer forming the front of the eye) leading to painful irritation, ulceration and scarring. It could even permanently impact the puppy’s vision.

After their visit, the 12 puppies went home with proud mum Jersey, a 4 year old Great Dane, who has been managing well with the large litter. There are actually so many puppies, that by the time they have all finished feeding, the first ones are ready for more milk! Jersey’s owners have been adding in one supplemental bottle feed, so that she can get some rest in the evening.

These gorgeous puppies will be ready to go to their new homes very soon – with all involved safe in the knowledge that they are heading out as happy and healthy as possible.

“Great Danes might be large, but they can be affected by congenitally small eyes, cataracts and abnormal eyelashes when they are puppies. Getting them checked as early as possible is important for their development.”

SASH Vets

About the Author

Bec Moss

Veterinarian
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SASH is home to some of Australia’s leading specialists and veterinary experts. If you have any concerns about your pet, please get in touch with us.

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