A Writer's Life Interrupted #canineglaucoma

They said the surgery would be quick and easy. Quick it was, easy it was not. Bella was still groggy when we got her home and truthfully, the surgery and her pain was hard to get used to. She hates the cone of shame and she cries and whines when I start to pet her. I took the cone off and on to monitor what was bothering her because I didn't want her hurting. It was the cone. The vet said to leave the cone on because if she scratches off the stitches what is underneath should not be seen.

So. The eye is gone and we are praying the other one works for awhile so she can map her area. They are sending what is left of the eye to UC Davis to see what caused the glaucoma. The specialist  thinks it is primary and the regular vet thinks it might be something autoimmune related.

For now we keep her well medicated and we guide her around the house. It appears she is not seeing well but that might be due to the swelling. I thought long and hard before posting her picture but then decided to do it because I hadn't seen any post op pics and wish I had. It is hard to see someone you love hurt so bad and the surgery sight is unnerving.

Today she is just chilling on the floor and her bed. We blocked off the stairs so there is no danger of her falling and then made the doggie door off limits too. We walk her out front and keep the leash on her all the time. She has two drops per day in her good eye, is on anti-imflammatories, prednisone, anti-glaucoma medicine and Tramadol.

I know we did the right thing. Now we have to give her time to adapt. Bella is a wonderful companion and we are determined to give her the best life possible.

One last note. We decided against a false eye. The danger of infection is higher and the surgery is more difficult and longer. Besides, she is beautiful just the way she is.