Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) also known as "Dry Eye", affects 1 in 22 dogs in the UK, but can be effectively treated with Optimmune, the licensed veterinary treatment for KCS in the UK. Buy it online at VioVet, your trusted online pet pharmacy for a wide range of pet foods and pet meds.

In certain breeds of dog, such as Cocker Spaniels, West Highland White Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Shih-Tzus, the incidence of KCS is almost doubled. If you own any of these breeds, it is important to get your pet checked regularly for signs of KCS, so that the condition is picked up early and can be controlled with a pet medication such as Optimmune.

Any breed of dog can be affected by KCS, which causes the destruction of the tear glands by the dog’s own immune system, so if you notice any of the following symptoms, ask your vet to investigate further:

•    Red and inflamed eyes
•    Eye discharge
•    Dry looking eyes
•    Excessive blinking, trying to keep the eyes closed
•    Eye discomfort
•    Eye infections
•    Conjunctivitis or ulceration

KCS is a painful condition that can accelerate rapidly and can lead to blindness, but the symptoms can be managed well with Optimmune. It works by managing the immune response that damages the production of tears in your dog’s eyes; stimulating the natural production of tears; reducing inflammation, and helping to promote normal eye function.

VioVet stocks a wide range of pet foods and prescription and non-prescription pet medications such as Optimmune, Metacam for dogs, vetoryl, seraquin and much more. We offer you substantial savings compared to buying direct from your vet, so to find out more, call us on freephone 0800 0842608.

Natural tears provide vital functions within the eye such as lubrication and providing resistance to infection. Once tear production is reduced, the dog is likely to suffer from recurrant eye infections, ulceration and conjunctivitis. Discharge may be produced, and scarring of the surface may also occur.