Cherry Eye
Cherry Eye is scientifically known as Harderian Gland Prolapse. Boxers are quite susceptible to this condition, which is a prolapse of the tear gland of the third eye-lid. When the gland prolapses it protrudes as a pinkish-red fleshy mass in the corner of the exe, over the third lid. The condition requires prompt treatment, as it can easily become aggravated by the dog's scratching, and is also open to infection. Some veterinarians still advocate removal of the gland as treatment for this condition, but this can hold serious long term implications for the dog, as this gland is responsible for the production of at least 1/3 of the eye's tears. Today's preferred treament is to surgically replace the gland. It is a common procedure nowadays, and is rarely complicated. The main risk of the replacement option is the chance of re-occurence, but most of the veterniarians we have talked to or read, believe this risk is minimal compared to the surety of the dog suffering from 'dry-eye' if the gland is removed.
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