(Pannus is an immune-related condition that affects vision in dogs)
You may have noticed that dogs sometimes develop blurred vision, which leads to blindness. This condition is called Pannus, An immune-related condition that affects dogs’ eyes, especially German Shepherds. The disease attacks the dog’s corneas and conjunctive tissues in atypical cases. Pannus most likely attacks both eyes, but not to the same degree; one can be more damaged than the other. Most people try natural remedies for Pannus in dogs due to their effectiveness compared to clinical treatments.
Many dogs with Pannus experience dry, itchy eyes, and the disease can also lead to permanent vision loss or blindness. It mainly alters the Cornea, where a black film grows across the eye’s surface. Unfortunately, this condition has no advanced treatment. If diagnosed earlier and precautions are taken, the process can be slowed.
Pannus treatment involves using different types of ointments, which can be really expensive. In conventional methods, it gets difficult to treat the condition, and sometimes it gets worse. For more information, you can bookmark our website for regular health-related blogs.
What is Pannus?
Pannus is an autoimmune condition where the body’s cells attack, causing abnormal tissue growth and affecting the Cornea and other eye parts. The disease is prevalent mainly in mid-age dogs. The affected eye from the Pannus becomes swelled, hazy, pale, and pigmented with the disease’s growth. Likely, it impacts both eyes.
But in some cases, the condition affects the third eyelid as well. If not treated on time, Pannus can lead to blindness. This immune-mediated inflammation begins on the outer part of the Cornea and, with progression, can cover all the parts of the eye, ultimately leading to blindness. The most common cases of Pannus is mainly seen in the German shepherds. However, it can also impact other dog breeds, like Australian Shepherds, Greyhounds, Border Collies, and more.
Breeds of Dogs Susceptible to Pannus
Certain dog species are prone to Pannus more than others. This is because of genetic susceptibility that makes them more likely to develop the disease. However, the Pannus can impact any dog. The condition is most likely seen in the following breeds.
German Shepherd:-
German shepherds have a high susceptibility to developing Pannus. They likely develop in their mid-years. The reason for this is not solely apparent, but certain genetic factors render them more susceptible.
Border Collie:-
The border collie is also susceptible to Pannus. They are more likely to develop the disease in the earlier years.
Grey Hound:-
Greyhounds are one of the few breeds of dogs sensitive to Pannus. The greyhound species with light-colour coats are highly susceptible to the disease.
Belgian Tervuren
The energetic Belgian Tervuren breed dogs are also vulnerable to the Pannus.
Australian Shepherd:-
Australian shepherds can also be at high risk of developing Pannus.
Causes of Pannus in Dogs:-
Pannus is an autoimmune condition caused by an inappropriate immune system response. In the case of the Pannus, the immune response is shown in the effect of the eye, beginning from the pink and white surface of the eye and expanding to the corner of the eye Cornea. Usually, with Pannus, both eyes get affected, leading to vision impairment and blindness.
The exact cause of Pannus is still vague. However, it is believed that several genetic predispositions and a combination of environmental factors, particularly exposure to UV, lead to the progression of Pannus. Especially in areas of high sunlight, the dog should avoid wandering in direct sun exposure as UV exposure stimulates the immune response in the Cornea, leading to the progression of the disease. In addition, certain factors can expand or exasperate the development of the Pannus, such as environmental conditions, smoke, pollution, etc.
Natural remedies for Pannus in Dogs
Pannus is a severe condition in dogs, and its treatment is essential. Unfortunately, due to the high cost of treatment, many people do not prefer clinic recommendations.
The earlier the disease is detected, the less chance it has to progress and the severity of impairment. Several approaches are applied to treat the condition and effectively prevent it from spreading. Here are some potentially effective remedies to treat the Pannus.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:-
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids found to be effective in treating Pannus. Omega fatty acids are richly present in seafood and essential for numerous health conditions, including autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. These polyunsaturated fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which are helpful in reducing the symptoms of Pannus, like inflammation and redness.
Antioxidants:-
Antioxidants are components that inhibit oxidation and protect the body from radicals. They remove and counteract oxidative stress, which plays a crucial part in Pannus development.
The initial symptoms of Pannus in your pet are a painless pink mass or redness around the Cornea. Over time, the colour of spots or mams will get darker and can spread over the Cornea. In some cases, the tissue will be damaged to the extent that it will cause permanent vision loss.
Herbal Treatment:-
Herbal treatment is one of the best natural remedies for Pannus in dogs. Many clinical experts suggest that treating Pannus with herbal medicine can help in reducing the symptoms quickly. Certified Herbalist Sharon Hubbs suggests treating the Pannus by following regular cleanup on the affected area with an eye-bright solution. Buy herbal eyewash like Eyebright at a local medical store. Add Eyebright to the normal water and boil it until it turns yellow. Once the water gets yellow, you can stain the solution to get filtered Eyebright and pour it into a bottle. You can use this solution to wash the eyes of your pet. Store the gel in a dry place to avoid contamination.
Vitamin A treatment:-
Vitamin A is a good source of retinol; adding it to your pet’s diet can improve their eyesight. It can also boost your pet’s immune response and protect the protective surface linings of his eyes. In addition, vitamin A can help pets to get rid of bacteria. Veteran Dr Dave suggests adding regular vitamin A to your pet’s food.
Homeopathic Treatment:-
Homeopathic treatment is also a natural remedy for Pannus in dogs that is effective for this eye condition. Chinese homeopathic formula plum flower is found effective in treating Pannus. You can add two formula pills twice to treat the dog’s eyes.
Protect from the UV:-
If you want to improve your pet’s condition, protect its eyes from the glare of snow in any season. Sun rays are harmful to your pet’s eyes. On sunny days, you can limit their outdoor times. If your dogs like to be outdoors, ensure that it’s a shady area or purchase special dog-fitting UV-proof sunglasses.
Conclusion
Pannus-like eye conditions are becoming common in breeding German shepherds or many pets. Natural remedies for Pannus in dogs are best to treat this condition. In this blog, we have discussed Natural remedies for Pannus in dogs. It’s always exciting to know what remedies work and what not. Use these remedies to improve your dog’s eye condition and avoid factors that increase the chance of Pannus in pets.
FAQ’s
How do you get rid of Pannus in dogs?
Pannus can be treated using natural and clinical remedies, such as herbal remedies, natural remedies, and clinical treatments.
Is Pannus painful?
Yes, Pannus is painful. This autoimmune disease causes inflammation and redness in your eyes.
What are the earlier symptoms of Pannus?
Some of the earlier symptoms of Pannus include redness, swelling, itching, blurry vision, and scarring.
