OkcPets Magazine January 2021

January/February 2021 • OKC Pets 31 Dog Dynasty Grooming Salon 5026 n may ave / okc, ok 73112 405-602-3004 walk-ins welcome appts preferred open at 8am 10% senior discount Where Every Animal is Free to Live ADOPT VOLUNTEER GIVE 405.282.8617 FreetoLiveOK.org FreetoLiveOK Dry Eyes in Canines: A Common Problem WRITTEN BY: Kyle T. Panter, PharmD, Innovative Pharmacy Solutions D ry eyes in canines, also known as Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), is a condi- tion in which the cornea, the transparent part of the eye, and its surrounding tissues become inflamed and damaged. This is primarily caused by a lack of tear production, which aids in the lubrication and cleansing of the surface of the eye. Compared to humans, canines produce five times more tear volume daily. When their tear production is diminished, it can create major problems. Tear production in canines can be hindered by several factors, such as immune-mediated diseases, hypothyroidism, systemic diseases, adverse effects to certain medications or nerve damage from an inner ear infection. Treatment options are focused on increasing tear film production by administering medi- cated eye drops. Sadly, many canines don’t respond well or cooperate with these therapies. If your pet is suffering from dry eyes, Innovative Pharmacy may have a help- ful over-the-counter product to consider—HyaLife®. HyaLife® is a unique, highly absorbable oral form of hyaluronic acid. It is naturally sourced from rooster comb and is used to improve the lubrication of joints, decrease aging effects in skin and improve dry eyes. Studies in humans have shown a significant improvement in dry eyes. Some patients even report a remarkable improvement in their eyesight as well.  Based on this information, for the past year Innovative Pharmacy has been recommending HyaLife® to pet owners with KCS dogs, and the results have been encouraging. Most owners report they can tell their pet is more comfortable with a noticeable decrease in eye redness and dis- charge. If your pet is struggling with dry eyes, I highly recommend HyaLife®. For more information about HyaLife®, please contact Innovative Pharmacy at (405) 330-3619.