When it comes to protecting our pets, there’s no one more important than veterinarians. Veterinarians and experts in the field have continued to stand behind Rex Specs Goggles throughout the years, making them a trusted tool in the veterinary community. Whether for protection on the front lines and in the fields, aiding in the care of health issues or enhancing the life of a pet on the trails, find out more about why the veterinary ophthalmologists from CullenWebb Animal Eye Specialists stand behind Rex Specs, and when you should consider them for your dog.
Meet the Veterinarians
Dr. Cheryl Cullen, DVM, MVetSc, DACVO and Dr. Aubrey Webb, DVM, PhD (neuroscience), of CullenWebb Animal Eye Specialists in New Brunswick, Canada have a mission to provide excellence in dedicated veterinary ophthalmology to dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and more.
Given the scope of their practice, veterinary ophthalmology, Dr. Cullen and Webb work to diagnose, treat, and manage eye conditions and diseases in animals. From foreign bodies in the eye to inherited diseases like Pannus, they have extensive knowledge and practice in the care and prevention of ocular injury, and have recommended Rex Specs Goggles to patients who may benefit from them.
Why Choose Eye Protection?
As veterinary professionals specifically addressing the needs of an animals' eye health, Dr. Cullen and Dr. Webb believe that UV-protective and impact resistant eyewear serves to not only physically protect the eyes from trauma, but also help to manage various eye conditions. We asked these experts for their behind the scenes insight into why dog owners may think about utilizing eye protection. Here’s what they said:
Q: What types of dogs are most at risk of eye injuries or ailments?
A: Breeds at risk of developing certain ocular conditions, or having increased risk of ocular trauma, that might benefit from UV-protective and impact resistant eyewear include, but are not limited to: hunting or scent detection dogs, dogs allowed off-leash in wooded areas or areas with long grasses, brachycephalic breeds, canine breeds with ocular conditions where long-term/chronic UV-light exposure may play a role, including pannus (chronic superficial keratitis), patients with non-pigmented conjunctiva/third eyelid margins as some of these animals may be at increased risk of developing certain types of cancer (e.g. hemangioma), dogs that may be light sensitive (e.g. dogs that have dilated pupils for various reasons (e.g. dogs with blue eyes, dogs with iris atrophy or pupillotonia, etc.).
Q: How can eye protection benefit these breeds or types of dogs?
A: These animals benefit from added protection from potential sources of external trauma.
Q: What are common eye injuries or conditions in dogs that may be prevented or aided by the use of eye protection?
A: A variety of conditions/circumstances include, but are not limited to: corneal foreign bodies (plant foreign material via scent work, hunting, other types of working dogs), penetrating ocular trauma, pannus (i.e. chronic superficial keratitis), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS, dry-eye), qualitative tear film deficiencies, animals with facial nerve paralysis (inability to blink), or animals with conformation-related eye prominence (i.e. physiologic exophthalmia).
When Should Dog Owners Look Into Eye Protection?
Whether it’s a hike through the woods, a day at the beach, or a ride in an open vehicle, dogs can encounter numerous environmental hazards that pose a threat to their eyes. Pre-existing conditions, dust, sand, sticks, and other debris can cause scratches, infections, or more severe injuries. Rex Specs provide a physical barrier that shields the eyes from these dangers, and vets often recommend them for active dogs or those frequently exposed to harsh environments, recognizing their role in preventing painful and costly eye injuries.
Q: Are there certain environments or conditions where you would strongly recommend using eye protection?
A: We recommend that animals that are exposed to dry and dusty conditions, who have a pre-existing tear issue (e.g. dry-eye or qualitative tear film deficiency), and who cannot reasonably avoid these conditions, consider using eyewear. Also, we often recommend eyewear for patients with pronounced physiologic exophthalmia (bulgy eyes) who often have incomplete ability to blink (i.e. lagophthalmos) when in environments making them susceptible to ocular trauma (e.g. being in long grass, etc.). Of course, there are other circumstances where eyewear may be beneficial.
Q: What signs or symptoms should dog owners look out for that may indicate their dog needs to be examined by a professional, and may benefit from eye protection?
A: We recommend that any animal with signs of "red-eye", increased squinting, increased ocular discharge (regardless of colour or consistency), or any change in colour or appearance to the surface of the eye should be examined by a veterinary professional, with potential referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist. These signs suggest that there is something affecting the eye. Depending upon the results of a complete eye examination, eyewear may be of benefit (i.e.- if tears are deficient or unstable; if eyes are prominent with incomplete blink as in some brachycephalics; if an eye disease such as pannus is confirmed, etc.).
Wondering if Rex Specs are Right for Your Dog?
It's always important to consider your dog's lifestyle and specific needs. Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors, especially in environments with harsh sunlight, sand, dust, or other debris, can greatly benefit from eye protection as it can prevent injuries, reduce irritation, and shield against harmful UV rays. Additionally, if your dog has a pre-existing eye condition such as pannus, UV protection can be crucial in managing their health and ensuring a comfortable recovery.
Q: As a veterinary ophthalmologist, what advice would you give to dog owners who are unsure about whether their dog needs eye protection?
A: For people who are uncertain about whether their pet may benefit from eyewear, it is important to ask questions about their veterinary care provider (family veterinarian or specialist). Conversations with friends who have used eyewear for their pets, or with trainers or dog-sport enthusiasts are a great way to find out how eyewear might be useful for their pet. It is important to recognize that pet eyewear is not for every pet, some pets do not tolerate wearing eyewear. An equally important aspect of successfully using eyewear for pets is ensuring that the eyewear is properly fitting for each individual.
The Experts Said It Best
Rex Specs have proven to be a valuable tool in protecting our pets' eyes, supported by the expertise and recommendations of veterinary professionals like Dr. Cheryl Cullen and Dr. Aubrey Webb.
Whether your dog is an active outdoor adventurer or has specific ocular health needs, the use of eye protection extends beyond just shielding against immediate threats—it can play a crucial role in managing and preventing a range of conditions. Trust the insights of the experts, and give your dog the protection they deserve.
Gear up your pup. Shop Rex Specs Dog Goggles now.