Canine Tonometry
Accurate Eye Pressure Testing for Dogs
Tonometry is one of the most important diagnostic tools in veterinary ophthalmology. It measures the pressure inside your dog’s eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP), and plays a central role in detecting conditions like glaucoma before they cause permanent damage to your dog’s vision.
At View Referrals, we carry out canine tonometry as part of every comprehensive eye examination. With decades of experience between us, we know how to get accurate, reliable readings, even in nervous or fidgety patients.
Accurate Eye Pressure Testing for Dogs
Intraocular pressure needs to stay within a healthy range for your dog’s eyes to function properly. When pressure rises too high, it can damage the optic nerve and retina, often very quickly. This is what happens in glaucoma, one of the most painful and sight-threatening conditions we see in dogs.
The difficulty with glaucoma is that early signs are easy to miss at home. By the time most owners notice something is wrong, the condition may already be advanced. That is exactly why canine tonometry is so valuable. It picks up pressure changes early, giving us the best chance of preserving your dog’s sight.
What Happens During the Test?
Canine tonometry is quick, painless, and non-invasive. We use specialist instruments to gently measure the pressure at the surface of the eye. Most dogs tolerate the process very well, and it only takes a few moments to complete.
We combine tonometry with other diagnostic techniques, including slit-lamp biomicroscopy and chromatic pupillary light testing, to build a full picture of your dog’s eye health. This allows us to identify not just pressure-related problems but a wide range of ocular conditions.
When Should Your Dog Have Tonometry?
We would recommend canine tonometry if your dog is showing any of the following signs:
- A red, cloudy, or swollen eye
- Squinting, excessive blinking, or pawing at the eye
- A visible change in pupil size
- Loss of interest in play, walks, or familiar surroundings
- A known breed predisposition to glaucoma
Certain breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds, Border Collies, and Flat-Coated Retrievers, carry a higher genetic risk for glaucoma. If your dog belongs to one of these breeds, routine pressure checks can be especially beneficial.
Why Choose View Referrals?
We are a family-run, independent ophthalmology referral service led by twin brothers Michael and Richard McCallum. Between us, we bring over 40 years of veterinary experience and a shared commitment to giving every patient the highest standard of care.
Your dog will always be seen by one of us personally, so you get genuine continuity and a team that truly knows your pet. We operate from multiple clinic locations across Central Scotland, making expert eye care easy to access without a long or stressful journey for your dog.
If your vet has concerns about your dog’s eye pressure, ask them to refer you to View Referrals. We are here to help.
Protect Your Dog’s Sight—Ask Your Vet for a Referral Today
Early detection is the key to preventing sight loss from glaucoma. If you’ve noticed any changes in your dog’s eyes or behavior, speak to your primary vet about a referral to View Referrals. Michael and Richard are here to provide expert, gentle care for your pet.
For urgent matters, please call us on 07344 407 630.