When we say “eye protection for your dog”, you might think of those adorable pictures of Frenchies in oversized sunglasses. While we definitely encourage a fantastic photo-op like that, what we’re talking about here is doggie eyewear that can actually help protect your dog’s eyes.
And let’s be honest, here. You might have clicked on this particular post because you thought to yourself, “Eye protection for your dog? Get real!” But stick with us, fellow Dog Owner! Investing in some high-quality eye protection for your dog may just be the best way to help your beloved furry friend feel more comfortable outside. And, veterinary science is suggesting that appropriate doggie eyewear may just be a health benefit!
By the end of this article, you might find yourself fitting your pup for doggie goggles and letting your trusted Dog Walker know that Fido won’t be leaving the house without them from now on. So, let’s talk about eye protection for your dog!
Eye protection for your dog can protect them against sun damage
Dogs, just like us, are susceptible to UV damage. While their furry bodies may shield them better than our hairless ones, our eyes are pretty similar in how exposed we are to the sun. And the extent of the potential damage is still being explored by veterinarians across the globe.
Sources suggest that while dogs may not live long enough to develop UV-induced cataracts, the exposure is still dangerous. Excessive UV light might even increase the risk for ocular cancer in dogs. At the same time, veterinarians featured in Australian Dog Lover argue that dogs actually can experience some of the same risks, including melanoma, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Because of the risk for UV damage, fitting your dog with protective eyewear is a great idea. Simply place your dog’s eyewear next to your sunglasses so that you remember to bring them with when you and your pup go out for a walk. Or, store them with your dog’s lead and doggie bags for when their loving Dog Walker comes to visit.
Eye protection for your dog is a fantastic shield for the adventurous pup
Another benefit of doggie glasses is that they can act as a physical barrier, too. If you have one of those unique doggos who just loves to dive face first into a thorny bush or run at full speed through a patch of pokey trees, you can see why eyewear might be helpful.
Eye protection for your dog can also come in handy if their favourite thing to do is feel the wind in their face during car rides. To prevent insects or other flying objects from hitting your pupper right in the eye, you can invest in some great driving goggles.
Eyewear is a great way to relax after surgery
The world can be a disorienting place after eye surgery, especially if you’re a doggo. Eye protection is a great way to ensure that your pup doesn’t scratch at their face after a medical procedure.
Tinted eye protection can also help your dog deal with the sensitivity they may experience after an eye surgery. If you notice your dog struggling with light exposure after seeing their veterinary ophthalmologist, a nice pair of goggles may provide some relief.
Some breeds may benefit more than others
Clearly, eye protection for your dog can be useful in a variety of situations. Whether you’ve got a doggo who spends most of their time at the beach or you take your dog in the car with you wherever you go, eye protection can keep their eyes healthy and safe.
At the same time, there are a few breeds who can benefit even more from a set of doggy goggles. Pups who are brachycephalic, like Bulldogs and Boxers, are prime candidates for canine eyewear. That’s because their facial structure makes their eyes more prominent on those adorable little faces. While those puppy dog eyes are very cute, they’re also more exposed to the sun and projectiles.
Other dogs that will thank you for investing in some eyewear are the ones with predispositions for eye conditions. If your pup is at high risk for Progressive Retinal Atrophy, cataracts, or ocular cancer, UV protective glasses may help. These breeds include Schnauzers, Labrador Retrievers, Poodles and many others.
Will you invest in some eye protection for your dog?
If you have some fashion doubts about doggy eyewear, we understand. Maybe you’re worried that your doggo isn’t going to be the coolest canine at the dog park anymore. To that, we’d like to remind our fellow dog lovers that our pups don’t care what they look like. They just want to run and jump and play and bury their favourite toy.
Eye protection for your dog may look silly, but it can also ensure that your pup will live more fully. They’ll see better on bright sunny days. They’ll be able to dive head first into prickly bushes. And it may even lower their risk for health complications.
So, why not try them out?
1 comment
So many brands on the market stating uv sun protection. Who do you trust? My dog has just had cataract surgery so they need to be 100% safe. Do not want to take any risk of him losing his sight.