Companion Animals

Companion Dog Pannus and Eye Welfare

Management of pannus (chronic superficial keratitis) in dogs and welfare of affected animals.

Key Facts

Pannus is an immune-mediated eye condition causing corneal pigmentation and vision loss
German Shepherds, Greyhounds, and Border Collies are most commonly affected
UV light exposure worsens pannus progression and dogs at altitude are at higher risk
Topical corticosteroid and cyclosporine treatment effectively controls progression
Untreated pannus causes progressive vision loss and chronic eye discomfort

Welfare Considerations

Pannus causes progressive vision impairment and eye discomfort that significantly reduces welfare, and early treatment prevents the irreversible vision loss that occurs without management.

What You Can Do

Use UV-protective dog goggles for affected dogs in high-UV environments
Seek veterinary diagnosis and treatment for dogs with cloudy or pigmented corneas
Maintain regular veterinary monitoring for dogs diagnosed with pannus