Does My Dog Need to See an Eye Doctor?

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Julie Walton

Many dog owners wonder, does my dog need to see an eye doctor, especially when their dog’s eyes begin to change with age. For us, the question became real when we noticed Blue Belle’s eyesight shifting as her cataracts progressed. After talking with her oncologist, Dr. Hume, we were referred to the ophthalmology team at her clinic.

Why Your Dog Might Need to See an Eye Doctor

Dogs can develop a variety of eye issues as they age, and some of them benefit from specialist care. If you’re wondering does my dog need to see an eye doctor, here are some signs:

Cloudiness or whitening of the lens
Hesitation in new environments or bumping into objects
Redness, squinting, or excessive tearing
Sudden changes in behavior, such as clinginess or anxiety
A “blue haze” or visible changes in the pupils
Difficulty seeing in low light

Cataracts are one of the most common reasons senior dogs see an eye specialist, but they’re not the only one. An ophthalmologist can help determine what’s happening and what options exist.

What Happens at a Dog Eye Doctor Appointment

Dog eye exam with veterinary assistant helping Blue Belle stay comfortable. — Blue Belle staying calm while the ophthalmology team begins her eye exam.

From the moment we entered the exam room, we felt the team’s kindness. Blue Belle was helped onto a soft mat and allowed to sit or stand however she felt most comfortable. Three team members assisted with the exam, moving calmly and gently around her.

The initial exam included:

A close look at her eyes with a handheld instrument
A check of her eye pressure (which was good — a relief)
Turning off the lights to look deeper into the eye
A stain test to check for corneal ulcers
An eye wash to clear the stain

They explained each step and answered our questions along the way. Blue Belle panted loudly from the excitement, but she stayed calm, and they took wonderful care of her.

After taking a few photos of her eyes, the team stepped out to update Dr. Pederson before returning together.

Cataracts in Dogs: What Owners Should Know About Dog Eye Health

Dr. Pederson examined Blue Belle and confirmed cataracts in both eyes — more advanced in the left than the right.

We talked about cataract surgery, and I asked whether older dogs can still be candidates. Dr. Pederson explained that age alone isn’t a reason to avoid surgery; she has performed cataract surgery on dogs as old as sixteen and seventeen. What matters most is the dog’s quality of life and whether restored vision would meaningfully change their daily experience.

For some dogs, cataract surgery can be life‑changing. For others — especially quiet, sedentary seniors — the risks may outweigh the benefits. It’s a very individual decision.

Blue Belle’s Experience

Veterinary ophthalmologist performing a dog eye doctor exam on Blue Belle. — Dr. Pederson examining Blue Belle’s eyes with specialized ophthalmology equipment.

After Dr. Pederson’s exam, her team walked us through the risks, benefits, and costs of cataract surgery. They were clear, patient, and honest:

Success rate: About 9 out of 10 dogs do well, but 10–15% may experience complications such as secondary glaucoma or retinal detachment.
Serious surgical complications: Things like incisions reopening, severe hemorrhage, or anesthesia‑related death are very rare — far less than 1%.
Cost: Pre‑surgical testing typically ranges from $1,000–$1,500. Cataract surgery for both eyes can be around $6,000.

They emphasized that they weren’t trying to talk us into surgery — only to give us options.

Because inflammation can develop inside the eye, they often prescribe anti‑inflammatory drops to prevent chronic inflammation and scar tissue, which can lead to glaucoma or other painful complications. These drops are used proactively, not just after problems appear.

Blue Belle will need daily eye drops for the rest of her life. They showed us how to give them, and she accepted them calmly. She also has some aging changes on her eyes, so she’ll be using an antibiotic ointment for 10 days.

Dr. Pederson sensed that “less is better” for Blue Belle and recommended once‑a‑day drops for now. We’ll return in six months for a recheck, and we were told to contact the clinic sooner if we notice squinting or discharge.

Encouragement for Other Dog Owners

If you’re noticing changes in your dog’s vision, trust your instincts. A veterinary ophthalmologist can help you understand what’s happening and what options exist — whether that’s surgery, medication, or simply monitoring.

Blue Belle might have qualified for cataract surgery, but we decided not to move forward with the testing or procedure. She’s comfortable and well‑supported with a plan that truly fits her life, and that’s what matters most.

Caring for a senior dog means learning to notice the small changes and meeting them with patience, curiosity, and love. Blue Belle may not see the world the way she once did, but she still greets each day with her quiet sweetness and steady trust. Visiting an eye doctor helped us understand what she needs and how to keep her comfortable, and it reminded us that supporting our dogs through aging is one of the most meaningful parts of sharing life with them. If your dog’s eyes are changing, you’re not alone — and taking that next step to learn more can make all the difference.

If your dog is losing vision, you may also find my post on Helping Blind or Vision‑impaired Dogs Thrive helpful.

Does My Dog Need to See an Eye Doctor? — Further Reading

If you’d like to learn more about canine eye health or cataracts in senior dogs, these resources offer clear, reliable information:

Understanding Cataracts in Dogs – A simple overview of what cataracts are, how they affect vision, and what treatment options exist.
Signs Your Dog May Need an Eye Exam – A helpful guide to common symptoms that suggest it’s time to see a veterinary ophthalmologist.
What Veterinary Ophthalmologists Do – An introduction to the types of conditions eye specialists treat and what to expect at an appointment.
Dr. Sami Pederson, Veterinary Ophthalmologist – Learn more about the doctor and clinic that cared for Blue Belle.

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Should My Dog Wear a Coat or Sweater? A Winter Guide for Pet Parents

Posted on January 28, 2026 by Julie Walton

Should My Dog Wear a Winter Coat?

Blue Belle’s Story: Why This Question Matters

Blue Belle, a senior mixed‑breed dog, standing outdoors in her winter coat.

Blue Belle had just finished her visit with her oncologist when this topic first landed in my heart. After her ultrasound, her belly was shaved, and Dr. Hume gently suggested our dog wear a winter coat or sweater outside to keep her warm. That was all the encouragement we needed. Being the caring (and slightly fashion‑obsessed) dog parents we are, we went shopping and found her a cozy sweater and a new winter coat — even though she already had a perfectly good one at home. She deserved comfort, warmth, and yes, a little style.

That moment made me think about all the dogs out there — seniors, short‑haired pups, dogs recovering from medical procedures — who truly benefit from a little extra winter protection. And it also made me think about dogs like our sweet Scout, who had a thick, luxurious coat and would have overheated in a sweater within minutes.

A fluffy Alaskan Malamute sitting in a snowy landscape with trees and a bright winter sky. — Image by olginaa84 from Pixabay

So how do you know whether your dog needs a coat or sweater? And how long should they wear one? Let’s walk through it.

🐾 When Your Dog Might Need a Winter Coat or Sweater

When a Winter Coat Helps Keep Your Dog Comfortable

A winter coat is most helpful for dogs who struggle to stay warm on their own. Short‑haired breeds, senior dogs, and pups with health conditions often benefit from the extra insulation. In particular, coats are also ideal for cold, wet, or windy weather because they protect against the elements better than sweaters. According to the American Kennel Club, dogs with short coats, low body fat, or certain medical conditions often need extra protection in cold weather.

When a Sweater Is the Better Choice

A senior mixed‑breed dog named Blue Belle wearing a cozy winter sweater after her oncology visit.

Sweaters are perfect for dry, chilly days or for dogs who need gentle warmth without heavy insulation. They’re especially helpful for dogs with shaved areas, like Blue Belle after her ultrasound, or for pups who need comfort indoors or during short outdoor breaks.

Short‑haired or thin‑coated dogs

Breeds like Pit Bulls, Greyhounds, Boxers, and many mixed‑breed pups simply don’t have enough insulation to stay warm in cold weather. Blue Belle, with her short hair, fits into this category — especially now as a senior.

A hairless dog standing indoors wearing a blue knitted sweater and a purple collar. — Photo by Anya Chernykh on Unsplash

Senior Dogs Who Struggle With Temperature Regulation

Older dogs often struggle to regulate body temperature. As a result, a sweater can make winter walks more comfortable and help them conserve energy.

Dogs With Health Conditions or Shaved Areas

For example, hypothyroidism, arthritis, cancer treatment, or shaved areas from medical procedures (like Blue Belle’s belly) all make warmth extra important.

Small Breeds That Lose Heat Quickly

Tiny pups lose heat quickly and often benefit from sweaters even on moderately chilly days.

A small dog with gray and tan fur wearing a festive sweater, sitting alertly on a quilted couch. — Photo by Massimo P on Unsplash

Cold, wet, or windy weather

Even so, a dog with a decent coat can get chilled if they’re damp or exposed to wind.

When Dogs Don’t Need Extra Layers

Some dogs are naturally equipped for winter. Thick, double‑coated breeds like Huskies, Malamutes, and long‑haired Australian Shepherds (like Scout) stay warm on their own. Additionally, active dogs may also overheat quickly, and most dogs don’t need clothing indoors unless medically advised.

Continue reading →

🐾 When You’ve Loved Me a Long Time: A Senior Dog’s View on Cancer

Posted on January 9, 2026 by Julie Walton

This senior dog cancer story is written from Blue Belle’s perspective — a 14‑year‑old Australian Shepherd/Blue Heeler mix we rescued when she was just a year old. She’s lived with cataracts, thyroid issues, arthritis, and now cancer, but through it all, she’s taught us what love and resilience really look like.

Senior Dog Cancer Story: Lessons I’m Learning 🐾❤️

I’ve been with you for many seasons now. I’ve watched your hair change, your routines shift, your heart grow softer. You’ve watched me slow down, turn gray around the muzzle, and trade zoomies for sunbeams.

So when cancer entered our lives, it didn’t feel like a sudden storm. It felt like another chapter — one we’d face the same way we’ve faced everything else. Together.

Blue Belle senior dog sketch – senior dog cancer story

I’ve Learned My Body’s Language Over the Years 🐶

When I was young, I bounced back from everything. A stumble, a tummy ache, a long hike — no problem.

But now, as a senior dog, I notice the small things more:

A stiffness that lingers
A lump that wasn’t there before
A tiredness that doesn’t fade after a nap

I didn’t know the word cancer, but I knew something inside me had changed.

You Noticed Too — Because You Always Do 🐾

Your hands have memorized every inch of me. You know the old scars, the soft spots, the places I love to be scratched.

So when you found that lump, I felt your breath catch. You tried to stay calm for me, but I’ve known you a long time. I felt your worry settle into the room like a shadow.

But I also felt your resolve. You’ve always been my protector, and you didn’t hesitate.

The Vet Visits Felt Different This Time 🩺

Blue Belle at the vet with her family – senior dog cancer story

I’ve been to the vet many times in my life — for shots, checkups, silly injuries from my younger days. But this was different. More tests. Quiet conversations that lasted longer than usual. Gentle hands on my fur.

I didn’t understand the medical words, but I understood your voice. You spoke to me with the same love you’ve always had, but now with a tenderness that said, I’m right here. I won’t leave you.