National Pet Eye Health Awareness Week (September 16-22) aims to help vets educate pet owners on the early signs of eye conditions, such as dry eye and corneal ulcers, and to act, if they spot the signs.

A survey of 1,000 pet owners conducted by animal health company, Dômes Pharma, saw 29% of pet owners reporting that they do not check their pet’s eyes regularly. Also, 34% of owners also confirmed that they have never heard of dry eye before, showing a lack of understanding amongst pet owners.

In a study for vet owners, it was found 67% of pet owners rarely accept and purchase follow on treatment for Dry Eye as they do not want to administer treatment at home. Veterinary advisor at Dômes Pharma, Emma Hancox said: “We know that certain eye conditions can be difficult to detect and manage, leading to more distress for the pet, owner and vet.

“This campaign encourages vets and pet owners to have greater dialogue and encourage early detection through the simple act of pet owners ‘taking a closer look’ – an action that could take seconds and could make the difference.”

The report also identified that 31% of owners stated they would wait three days or more before seeing a vet if their dogs eye condition hadn’t improved and 55% believed that dry eye is a curable condition.

Ms Hancox continued: “The campaign also aims to help with managing eye conditions, improving awareness and education, and pet owner compliance.”