Sunglasses aren't just for people. Canines also need eye protection from UV rays, irritants, wind, and debris. Whether your dog is an outdoor dog or indoors--no matter the activity--here are a few ways to protect his eyes.
Although sunlight is not as harmful to dogs as it is to humans, they still need eye protection from UV rays. This is particularly important if they are exposed to bright lights for an extended period of time. Although most breeds of dogs are safe from direct sunlight, they may benefit from sunglasses or eye-protection cream.
UV rays can damage the eyes and cause severe eye conditions. These conditions can lead to blindness in your pet. UV rays are particularly harmful to dogs with underlying conditions, so protecting them from the sun's harmful rays is important. Doggoggles Sidecar Dog Goggles filter harmful UV rays, keeping your pup's eyes as healthy as possible.
Your dog's eyes need protection from irritants such as pollen, dust, and wind. Moreover, they're sensitive to ultraviolet rays and may develop eye allergies that can lead to dog blindness. In addition, some breeds are more susceptible to abrasions, ulcers, and cuts around the eyes. In some cases, these irritants can aggravate conditions such as pannus, a condition that can be particularly dangerous for dogs like German Shepherds and Greyhounds. Another cause of eye irritation is hair around the eyes. In these cases, the hair wicks out moisture and irritates the eye. If your dog's hair reaches the eyelids, you can give it bangs to keep it out of the eye.
Some dogs are especially at risk for eye problems, and protective eyewear may be useful for these dogs. However, it's important to check with your veterinarian before purchasing eyewear for your dog. If your dog lives in a harsh environment, wearing protective eyewear is especially important for its health.
Your dog will need eye protection when it is exposed to wind and high-velocity environments. It also needs protection when in a boat or fast vehicle. They are also at risk for damage from bright fluorescent lights. If you're not sure whether your dog will need eye protection, consult a veterinarian first. Exposure to sunlight and UV rays can cause chronic superficial keratitis (also known as pannus) - a disease that affects the eye. This disease is particularly prevalent in dogs of certain breeds, such as Greyhounds and German Shepherds.
Dog goggles can protect your dog's eyes from wind and UV rays. They can also help shield their eyes from splashes. While goggles aren't required for every working dog, those who spend most of their time outdoors or in a hazardous environment should consider wearing one.
It is important for your dog's eyes to be protected from debris, which can damage the eyes. Many pet stores sell dog sunglasses. They can also be purchased online. However, it is important to supervise your dog while he or she wears the glasses because it is possible for your pet to chew on the straps or damage the glasses. Before you buy dog glasses, ask your vet if they are right for your dog. Depending on the type of glasses you buy, they can cost as much as $15 to $25. They are also important to have a veterinary ophthalmologist fit your dog's eyes properly.
Some dog breeds have large eyes, which are more susceptible to debris. For example, brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers have eyes that protrude from their faces and can easily be hit by debris. These breeds can also be more prone to eye conditions like chronic superficial keratitis.
Canines that live at high altitude are at risk of vision problems. Their eyes can become light in color and even develop pannus. Using goggles is necessary to prevent the development of this eye condition. They also help protect dogs' eyes when hiking and bicycling.
There are two primary types of dog goggles. One type is made of a 2mm-thick clear PVC visor that suspends on the forehead and rests in front of the eyes. The visors come in different sizes that accommodate the length of the nose. Another type resembles ski goggles, with large spherical lenses. This style provides a higher level of UV protection and is also more stable on the face.
Dogs need eye protection at high altitude because the sun's UV rays can damage the eye tissues. Especially light-eyed dogs are more vulnerable to this condition, so eye protection is crucial.