This May, the eyes of our heroic service animals—those faithful companions who guide, rescue, and assist us in countless ways—will receive the attention they deserve during the National Service Animal Eye Exam event. Spearheaded by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) and sponsored by Epicur Pharma, this annual initiative is a tribute to the invaluable work of formally trained service animals across a variety of sectors.
From guide dogs to search and rescue teams, and from therapy animals to those serving alongside police and military personnel, these animals perform tasks that are not only incredible but also essential. The event is a proactive step towards ensuring these diligent workers can continue their tasks without the hindrance of undetected eye conditions.
Dr. Elizabeth Lutz, DVM, DACVO, and chairperson of the ACVO Membership, Promotion, & Outreach Committee, emphasizes the significance of this event. “It’s a rare but golden opportunity for us to connect with these amazing animals and their handlers, providing not just a token of our gratitude but essential, preventative eye care,” she says. “While most animals we examine have healthy eyes, the early detection of any issue can be crucial in managing it effectively and avoiding more serious complications like blindness or pain.”
The examination process itself is straightforward and stress-free, lasting between 10 to 25 minutes without the need for sedation. These specialized screenings are designed to identify early signs of ocular issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal disease, which might not be detected during routine wellness checks.
In 2023, board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists will conduct these thorough examinations in approximately 170 locations across the U.S., Canada, Hong Kong, the UK, and Puerto Rico. The initiative underscores the importance of annual check-ups with specialists who can provide a deeper level of care than what might be available during a standard veterinary visit.
Registration for the event is open until April 30, and all service animal handlers are encouraged to take advantage of this free offering to ensure their animals’ eyesight is protected. For more details, visit the ACVO National Service Animal Eye Exam website and secure a spot for your service animal in this crucial health event. It’s not just an exam; it’s a way to ensure these noble animals continue to lead, support, and protect with clear vision.
