Diabetic Dog With Chronic Cataracts Now Seeing Brighter Future
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A Hertfordshire animal hospital has given a diabetic border terrier a new lease of life by restoring her sight following complicated surgery on advanced cataracts.
Eleven-year-old Bella’s vision was quickly deteriorating, with virtually no sight at all before she was treated at Linnaeus-owned Davies Veterinary Specialists in Hitchin after being referred by nearby fellow Linnaeus practice Chess Vets in Rickmansworth.
The advanced stage and severity of Bella’s cataracts made surgery difficult, however, such was the success of the operation that the beloved pet’s quality of life has improved hugely thanks to her recovered vision.
Bella’s grateful owner Lin Daysh from Croxley Green said: “I knew cataracts were likely to form after her diabetes diagnosis three years ago. Over time they became visible, becoming larger, it seemed, week by week, resembling white saucers in her eyes.
“I didn’t want her to go blind, so I contacted my local practice Chess Vets, who referred Bella to Davies as they were best placed to look after her.
“Since the cataract surgery, I no longer have to worry about Bella going blind. She sets off walking with confidence and energy. She’s happy, which makes me happy.”
As part of her ongoing care for her diabetes, Bella eats a homecooked diet designed by a qualified veterinary nutritionist.
Ioannis Tzouganakis, ophthalmologist at Davies, said: “Bella’s cataracts had advanced to a chronic state, making the surgery more complicated which meant we were unable to implant artificial lenses. Nonetheless, we were able to successfully remove the cataracts and restore Bella’s vision.
“Bella recovered well from her surgery and her quality of life has greatly improved with her recovered vision.
“I also understand Bella always enjoys coming to Davies for her rechecks and starts barking in the car with excitement when she realises that she is coming to the vets, which is always nice to hear!”
Ceri Davies, clinical director at Chess Vets, where the initial diagnosis took place, said: “It is great to see that Bella has made a good recovery. It was a real team effort by both Chess and Davies and by pulling together our resources, we’ve seen a successful outcome.”
For more information about Davies and the wide range of specialist-led services it offers, visit https://vetspecialists.co.uk/ or search for them on Facebook or LinkedIn.
For more information on Chess Veterinary Clinic, visit www.chessveterinary.co.uk or search for them on social media.