A BC SPCA branch on Vancouver Island is seeking funds for a surrendered bulldog puppy that needs more surgery to fix an eye condition that, if left untreated, could lead to vision loss.
The society said Tuesday that Lulu, a nine-month-old Bantam bulldog, has “a number of health issues,” including cherry eye. Her owner, who could no longer care for her, brought her to the Alberni-Clayoquot community animal centre.
The SPCA says cherry eye “is the prolapse of the gland of the third eyelid. It is repaired by surgically placing the gland back in its proper location…”
It’s a medical condition that’s irritating to dogs, and if it isn’t fixed, the animal will likely rub and paw at the eye, leading to not just further inflammation but conjunctivitis and possible corneal injury.
The latter can result in eye damage and vision loss, according to the SPCA in a news release.
“Poor Lulu has a condition commonly known as cherry eye in both of her eyes,” said Leon Davis, a BC SPCA’s senior manager, in the release.
“She is also suffering from a secondary eye infection, an infection in both ears, and she may also have environmental allergies.”
This won’t be Lulu’s first time having surgery.
She has already undergone an operation to fix the cherry eye, but it was unsuccessful. While she was recovering, the glands in her eyes prolapsed again, “and it looks like this sweet girl will require yet another surgery,” the SPCA said.
“According to her vet, this is quite common with this kind of eye issue, especially when the glands are as large as Lulu’s,” noted Davis.
VCA Animals Hospitals, which operates hospitals across Canada, including on the Island, has more information about cherry eye on its website.
Staying paws-itive
Despite her health issues, the society says Lulu is a playful, outgoing puppy who didn’t waste any time making herself at home with her BC SPCA foster. She often snuggles up to her foster mom and falls into a deep sleep with lots of snores.
She will continue with treatments until she makes a full recovery, which is expected to be in about four weeks. Then she’ll be seeking her forever home.
People can donate to Lulu’s medical fund here.
The SPCA says money raised will pay for the dog’s eye and spay surgeries, medications and daily care until she’s ready for adoption.
“If her medical costs and cost of care are less than what is raised in her name, additional funds will provide care for other animals,” it added.
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Lulu, a nine-month-old Bantam bulldog, is seen in this picture provided by the BC SPCA.
Ethan Morneau
