Ingrid’s Eye Exam

This morning Ingrid was examined by Dr. Zarfoss, a doctor of ophthalmology at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. The conclusion was that the optic nerve in Ingrid’s left eye has been damaged, probably beyond repair. There has also been damage to the structures around the eye which cause the upper eyelid to droop and the third eyelid to be more elevated than normal. Her right eye is completely normal and functional.

So for now, although she will probably always be blind in her left eye, the eyeball can stay and she will not need surgery. The report says that the left eye “does not need any treatment” at this time. The cosmetic damage will be with her for the rest of her life.

Dr. Zarfoss cautions, however, that Ingrid should have an eye exam in two months and then every three months after that until she is fully grown, then at least once or twice a year for the rest of her life. Her adopters will have to keep a close watch for dry eye conditions or other problems that may develop in the future.

Considering what she’s been though, this is a good result for Ingrid. She’s comfortable now and if her adopters are careful to monitor her she should remain so in the future. The only problem is that there will be an additional burden on the adopters to have these eye exams and deal with whatever problems come up in the future.