A dog's eyes are extremely sensitive and your regular veterinarian should not be the one diagnosing or dealing with the eye. Why, you may ask. Well, let me tell you…

Britanny, one of mama's former Shih Tzus, was once diagnosed with cataracts (Brit was only 4-years old at the time) by her regular veterinarian. After a crying jag, mama located a specialist, an animal ophthalmologist (Dr. Lavach, the founder of Eye Care for Animals). Guess what. Britanny did NOT have cataracts. Nope. She had a condition called 'dry eye.' She basically did not produce enough tears and all she needed was some daily drops to keep her eyes moist and hydrated. Had mama stuck with the original diagnosis, Britanny would have undergone an expensive and unnecessary surgical procedure and one she NEVER needed, even by the time she crossed the Rainbow Bridge!

Dry eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) is a very common problem in Shih Tzus and other big eyeball doggies. Daily drops will usually take care of this problem. It shows up as mucky goop so you actually think your dog has runny eyes. Not true…just the opposite! It is a dry eye issue.

Eyelashes growing where they don't belong (Distichiasis, trichiasis, and ectopic cilia) are conditions that may occur in Shih Tzus and other dogs causing problems with vision. Your dog may rub his/her face because the eyelashes are bothersome and you don't realize just what is causing the annoyance. This condition is harder to notice…a trained professional will be able to see those little eyelashes growing where they shouldn't be growing. Surgery can remove the hairs but there is no guarantee that the lashes won't grow back. If you keep your Shih Tzu's hair long (like I do), be sure that you have all the 'other' hair pulled back!

Another thing…if the hair just keeps growing into the eyes, cut it! Yep, mama now trims the hairs that refuse to grow down…instead, she cuts those pesky hairs and my eyes are healthier and happier for it!

Top knots too tight…this can cause problems for a Shih Tzu, too! Be sure that your baby can BLINK! Pulling that ponytail too tight can also cause bald spots on your furry one's head.

Regular vets are simply not trained to specialize in the eyeball. I don't care just how good they are. Eye Care for Animals is the place I recommend. They specialize in ocular issues and work not only with dogs but ALL animals. Tell them Chelsea sent you.