Serious and deeper eye ulcers require aggressive therapy. Dogs with deep ulcers are put on atropine and antibiotic ophthalmic drops,

in addition to oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Some ulcers are very resistant to healing, requiring third eyelid or conjunctival flaps in order to give the ulcer constant tissue coverage and blood supply to aid in healing.

Invading bacteria can produce enzymes which cause healing to cease and the ulcer may become deep enough to perforate the eyeball. This is an emergency, requiring an ophthalmologist.

Stitches in the cornea may be required and bacterial cultures taken. Breeds with protuberant eyes seem to be predisposed to ulcers. Symptoms of corneal ulceration include tearing, squinting,

redness, and rubbing of the eye. In severe cases there may be a bloody discharge or appearance of protruding tissue from the eye.

See your veterinarian as soon as possible if you suspect an eye injury has occurred.