Ophthalmology Service
David Gould is our RCVS recognised specialist in Veterinary Ophthalmology, and leads the ophthalmology service at Davies Veterinary Specialists. He is assisted by Kerry Smith and James Oliver.

We offer a prompt and efficient referral service for all types of eye diseases in small animals. Common conditions that are referred to us for treatment include cataracts, corneal ulcers, entropion (in-turning of the eyelids), dry eye, inflammation of the eye, glaucoma, tumours and retinal diseases.

We perform all types of extraocular and intraocular surgery including:

• Phacoemulsification cataract surgery and
  Intraocular lens placement
• Lens luxation surgery
• Entropion and facelift surgery
• Electrolysis for treatment of distichiasis
  (extra eyelashes)
• Electroretinography (ERG) and diagnostic
  workup for blindness

We also offer BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme examinations ('eye scores') for dogs. For this, we perform an ophthalmic examination and issue a certificate confirming that your dog has been checked for inherited eye diseases.

A BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme examination is strongly advised if you are planning to use your dog for breeding. If you are a dog owner or breeder who would like such a certificate, you can call us directly to arrange an eye test for your dog at Davies Veterinary Specialists.

Phacoemulsification is a state-of-the-art procedure for cataract removal. Cataracts are common in dogs and may be inherited, or due to old age, or develop as a consequence of diseases such as diabetes mellitus. Whatever the cause, early referral is recommended for all cataract assessments. This is because the success rate for cataract surgery is higher if the operation is performed before the cataract is too advanced.

At our initial consultation we will examine the eye and discuss potential phacoemulsification cataract surgery with the owner. Not all cases are suitable for surgery, or the owner may not wish to proceed with surgery. If cataract surgery is indicated, this usually can be performed within 1 to 4 weeks. If cataracts are present in both eyes, we can remove both the cataracts at the same time, if desired. Following removal of the cataracts, we will usually place an intraocular (artificial) lens inside the eye so that optimum vision is restored.

Related factsheets

• BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme
• Owner information sheet
  for cataract surgery
• Conjunctival Pedicle Grafts
• Corneo-Conjunctival Transposition (CCT) grafts
• Distichiasis ('extra eyelashes')
• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca ('Dry Eye')
• Enucleation
• Non-healing ('indolent') corneal
  ulcers in dogs
• Lens Luxation
• Living With A Blind Cat
• Living With A Blind Dog
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Conditions of the Third Eyelid
• Third Eyelid Gland
  Prolapse ('Cherry Eye')