Canine Dry Eye (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca) Study
Just like people, dogs benefit from regular eye examinations to keep their vision healthy. If your dog is frequently blinking, squinting, rubbing at their eyes, or has persistent eye redness or discharge, they may be suffering from Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS), commonly known as Dry Eye.
Dry Eye is a painful condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears. Without treatment, it can lead to chronic discomfort, corneal damage, and even vision loss.
Common signs of Dry Eye include:
- Excessive blinking, squinting, or "winking"
- Rubbing or pawing at the eyes
- Keeping the eyes closed more than normal
- Red or inflamed eyes
- Thick or persistent eye discharge
- A cloudy appearance to the eyes
While Dry Eye can affect any breed, it is particularly common in brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, and Boston Terriers.
Dogs with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
We are currently enrolling patients in a longitudinal sample collection study to investigate disease progression in healthy and early-stage Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients. This year long study is looking for dogs with Stage 1 or early Stage 2 CKD, as well as healthy dogs for participation.
Owners must be willing to commit to the study visit schedule of a 1-year duration.
Eligibility:
- Dogs must weigh > 2kg (4.4lbs) and be greater than 3 years of age.
- CKD dogs must be diagnosed with International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) Stage 1 or 2 CKD.
- Dogs must have had CKD for at least four weeks.
- Healthy dogs must not be diagnosed with IRIS CKD or AKI (acute kidney injury).
One of our Veterinarians will determine if your pet meets other eligibility criteria and may enroll in the study.
Feline Osteoarthritis (OA) Study
Osteoarthritis (OA) isn't just a problem for aging people—it's incredibly common in cats, too. In fact, many cats over the age of 7 have some degree of osteoarthritis, but because cats naturally hide pain, the signs often go unnoticed.
Signs of OA in cats:
- Jumping onto furniture less often
- Difficulty climbing stairs
- Stiffness or limping
- Sleeping more than usual
- Reduced play or activity
- Changes in grooming habits
- Increased irritability when touched or picked up
Nurture Animal Clinic is proud to participate in the advoCATes Feline Osteoarthritis Study, a clinical trial evaluating an investigational treatment designed to improve comfort and mobility in cats living with osteoarthritis.