Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral to see a veterinary ophthalmologist?
No, we do not require a referral, however,r it is helpful to have history from your primary veterinarian if you have that information.
What types of animals do you treat for eye conditions?
We treat all animals.
What should I bring to my pet’s eye exam?
Your pet and any medications that they are currently taking, and any paperwork from your primary vet that may be helpful.
How long does an eye exam take?
An eye exam itself typically takes less than five minutes. However, the initial appointment usually lasts between 10 to 30 minutes, allowing time for a thorough discussion of your pet’s history, diagnostic tests, and treatment recommendations. While the exam may seem brief, it’s backed by over 12 years of education and more than a decade of hands-on experience, ensuring a precise and expert evaluation of your pet’s eye health.
Common Eye Conditions
What are signs that my pet has an eye problem?
Common signs include a red eye, a cloudy eye, squinting or tearing, or a reduction in vision.
Can pets get cataracts? How are they treated?
Yes, pets can get cataracts and the only treatment for cataracts at this time is surgery.
What should I do if my pet’s eye is red or swollen?
Eye conditions are considered an emergency. Call us right away and we will do our best to work you into our schedule. If it is after hours, please go to the closest emergency center.
Services & Treatments
What tests do you perform during an eye exam?
During an eye exam, we perform a full ophthalmic evaluation, which typically includes checking intraocular pressure (tonometry), assessing tear production (Schirmer tear test), and using fluorescein stain to detect corneal ulcers. If additional tests are needed, such as advanced imaging or specialized diagnostics, we will discuss them with you during the appointment.
Do you offer cataract surgery for pets?
Yes we offer cataract surgery and lens replacement in pets.
Do you perform eye ultrasounds?
Yes, we have the capability to perform an ultrasound of your pet’s eye and this can tell us information about structures both inside and around the eye.
Can you treat corneal ulcers?
Yes we treat all types of corneal ulcers from superficial to deep. Treatment options depend on the severity of the ulcer, and we will thoroughly evaluate your pet’s condition during the appointment to determine the best treatment option. Treatments can range from medicated drops to debridement procedures, contact lens application, or surgery for more severe cases.
What is cherry eye, and does my pet need surgery?
Cherry eye is when the gland of the third eyelids pops out of it’s normal location and appears as a pink/red mass at the inner corner of your pet’s eye. If it is left untreated then the exposed gland can become inflamed leading to decreased tear production and potential eye infections. We recommend surgical correction of cherry eye to prevent the development of those complications. We do a tacking procedure to tuck the gland back in place, which is a safe and effective way to restore normal function of the gland.
Appointments & Policies
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule online, call us, or even email us.
Do you accept emergency cases?
Yes we should always have availability for emergencies as long as it is during business hours.
What is your cancellation policy?
We require 24hrs notice for appt cancellation.
Do you offer second opinions for eye conditions?
Yes, we do offer second opinions for eye conditions if necessary.
Can I get a virtual consultation for my pet’s eye problem?
Coming soon, we will be offering telehealth visits in the near future.
Payment & Insurance
Do you accept pet insurance for ophthalmology services?
Yes, however, Pet insurance policies typically refund the client after the services are rendered and we are happy to facilitate any paperwork that may be needed for that.
What are the costs of common procedures?
Please call for an estimate for a particular treatment or surgery.
Do you offer payment plans for surgeries or treatments?
We accept scratchpay and CareCredit. You can apply for those through their websites:
*Subject to credit approval. Visit carecredit.com for details.
