Alex Sigmind, DVM, DACVO, shares tips for pet parents to catch vision problems at home

5 Ways to pick up on pet's vision changes

Alex Sigmund, DVM, DACVO, shares practical tips for pet parents to monitor their pets’ vision at home. By sharing these tips with clients, you can help them identify subtle signs of vision impairment that may indicate underlying issues. Educating clients on what to look for not only fosters proactive pet care, but also ensures that any potential problems are addressed promptly through timely veterinary intervention.

1. Notice when your pet is bumping into things

If your pet is consistently bumping into objects they previously navigated with ease, it might be a sign of declining vision. Many pets are familiar with their surroundings, so these changes might only become apparent in new environments or when furniture is rearranged.

2. Watch for difficulties in dim lighting

Vision changes often become more apparent in low-light conditions. Whether it’s during early morning walks, dusk outings, or simply in the dimmer areas of your home, pets may struggle with transitions from bright to low-light spaces. Difficulty navigating stairs, jumping on furniture, or moving between rooms could indicate retinal degeneration, which may be genetic or age-related.

A noticeable shift toward using their nose more frequently can be a clue. For example, if your pet can’t track a thrown treat or toy visually and instead sniffs intently to locate it, this heightened reliance on smell may suggest declining vision.

Sometimes vision loss may only affect one side. This can cause your pet to become startled or even snap when approached from the impaired side. Being aware of this behavior can help you identify potential issues before they worsen.

A change in pupil size may be subtle yet significant. Normally, pupils adjust with light: larger in dim settings and smaller in bright settings. If you notice your pet’s pupils remain unusually large in bright light, this could be a warning sign of retinal disease, which might be linked to conditions like retinal degeneration, detachment from high blood pressure, or even glaucoma.

Videos

Share this advice from Alex Sigmund, DVM, DACVO, with pet parents to help catch vision issues early and ensure timely care

5 Ways to pick up on your pet's vision changes

On this week's episode, veterianry student and dvm360 student ambassador Ashely Lall shared her journey to veterinary school

The Vet Blast Podcast presented by dvm360: Navigating veterinary school and overcoming barriers

On this week's episode of The Vet Blast Podcast presented by dvm360, our host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, welcomes Ashely Lall, a second-year veterinary student and a dvm360 student ambassador, to discuss how her pet bird inspired her to switch from human medicine to veterinary medicine, what it is like being hearing-impaired, and more.

We were talking earlier [and] I teased it out a little bit about barriers. We've all experienced some sort of, whatever it could be, types of barriers, either physical, emotional, [or], learning barriers. Tell the listeners a little bit about what your experience is like...with what you're going through in vet school and in life in general.

Well, one of the things I haven't mentioned [is] that I was actually born hearing impaired, so I was born with mild to moderate hearing loss in both ears, and that affected my life quite a bit. You know... not being able to hear [as] well as my peers. And you know, even when I was in human med, and now even in animal med, I'm always scared that I'm going to miss something, especially when it comes [to], you know, auscultation and stuff like that. But I do have technology on my side. I do have an echo stethoscope that helps me with the amplification of those sounds and stuff. And then I also have a very supportive school. They provided me with caption ed, which is a captioning program that will turn real-time talk into words that I can see on a screen. I have professors that are willing to wear my mic that connects straight to my hearing aids. And I'm actually a bit nervous when it comes to actually getting out there into the world of veterinary med as a doctor, just because I don't know what my support staff is going to be like, just because how, how am I supposed to navigate that world of very fast paced, very life-or-death decisions, and you know, what if I missed something, and it's a big worry of mine, but I'm trying to...get through that, and, you know, realize that [my] support staff and other colleagues and everything will always do their best to help me.

Podcasts

Second year veterinary student join this week's episode to chat about her experience in veterinary school as a hearing-impaired student, and more

Navigating veterinary school and overcoming barriers

vaccine (Vanguard B; Zoetis) is now available on the veterinary market for prevention of kennel cough in dogs. The new formulation was approved by the USDA in 2024 and provides a smaller size dose and with single nostril administration.

The new formulation is indicated for dogs as early as 3 weeks of age, and offers another way to provide protection against kennel cough. “Zoetis remains committed to advancing animal health through innovation, and the availability of the smaller 0.5 mL dose vaccine reflects our dedication to providing early, effective, science-backed solutions that benefit both pets and their owners,” Tara Bidgood, DVM, PhD, DACVCP, vice president, head of veterinary professional services and medical affairs, independent petcare at Zoetis said in a news release.

According to Zoetis, most dogs infected with 

are contagious prior to symptoms showing, which can lead to outbreaks, and the disease is spread year-round. Signs of 

in dogs include sneezing, watery eyes, nasal discharge and a harsh or honking cough.

 Infection incubation is 3 to 10 days. However, an infected dog can shed bacteria for 3 to 4 months after recovery.

The disease can also spread to humans when infected aerosol droplets are inhaled. Veterinary practitioners and pet owners can protect themselves against disease transmission while working with dogs by wearing gloves, shoe covers and long sleeved shirts; by washing hands thoroughly after handing a sick canine, sanitizing work surfaces and using disposable supplies.

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends basing vaccination for 

in dogs on their lifestyle and risk of exposure.

 Dogs that frequently go to parks, a groomer or boarding facilities as well as those living in shelters are at higher risk of infection, for example.

“Protecting our pets’ health starts with preventative care, and vaccination is an effective way to safeguard your dog from a preventable illness like kennel cough,” Bidgood said in the release.

The AAHA recommends veterinary teams taking with clients about vaccines and why they are important for a dog’s health. If the need to vaccinate for 

is unknown, the AAHA suggests practitioners consider that the benefits outweigh the risks, in most cases and “when in doubt, vaccinate.”

Zoetis introduces new formulation of Vanguard B intranasal vaccine to ensure enhanced protection against 

. News release. Zoetis. March 21, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://www.zoetisus.com/news-and-media/zoetis-introduces-new-formulation-of-vanguard-b-intranasal-vaccine/#:~:text=Vanguard%C2%AE%20B%20Intranasal%20is,commonly%20known%20as%20kennel%20cough

Bordetella. Texas A&M University, Kingsville. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://www.tamuk.edu/finance/risk/animal-safety/bordetella.html

2022 AAHA Canine Vaccination Guidelines: Guideline at-a-Glance. www.aaha.org. Published 2022. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://www.aaha.org/resources/2022-aaha-canine-vaccination-guidelines/

Articles

Zoetis has launched its’ 0.5 mL dose for intranasal Vanguard B

New formulation for kennel cough vaccine is available

Zoetis shared the results from the first clinical trial comparing the NSAID meloxicam to Librela (bedinvetmab injection) for the management of canine osteoarthritis (OA) pain. The study, sponsored by Zoetis, was published in 

 and showed that the canine anti-nerve growth factor monoclonal antibody, showed equivalent pain relief to a NSAID. The data from the study was found to support guidelines that were previously published recommending both NSAIDs and Librela as a first line therapy for managing OA in canine patients.

"The results of this clinical trial provide veterinarians with the first data directly comparing the efficacy and safety of Librela to meloxicam. This new information is valuable for clinicians and pet owners when making treatment decisions for canine OA pain. My experience using Librela in the clinic for over 4 years aligns with the findings from this study," said John F. Innes, BVSc, PhD, DSAS(Orth), FRCVS, Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Specialist, Movement Referrals, in an organizational release.

The study was a randomized, open-label, and multicentered clinical comparator study following an ethical review by the Zoetis VMRD Ethical Assessment Committee. Dogs were eligible to participate through clinics that were randomly assigned 1 of 2 treatment groups based on the order in which they presented to the clinic. Each site was to attempt to enroll at least 2 complete blocks, which is 4 animals.

The patients in the study sample sizes were determined on the assumption that Librela would be superior to meloxicam when it came to efficacy, and the outcome measure was the Canine Orthopedic Index (COI). According to to the study, the sample size estimates using the COI required multiple assumptions first, published work indicated a standard deviation for COI in a population of dogs with OA to be “10” for the aggregate COI score and that treatment with the NSAID carprofen resulted in a mean decrease in COI score of 12.

The study enrolled 101 dogs with 52 randomized to Librela and 49 dogs randomized to meloxicam. The release noted that due to the small sample size and the short duration of the study, the statistical difference in adverse events (AE) numbers between each group could not be evaluated.

The study results indicated that Librela performed as well as meloxicam for managing pain associated with OA starting at day 14, the first time measured. Each product showed efficacy improving over the 56-day period. Within the study itself, it was noted that more dogs completed the study in the Librela group, 44, compared to the meloxicam group, 33.

 The results also showed that while there was a positive trend observed in mean reduction in the COI scoring, for the Librela group, there was a non-significant difference in efficacy each of the products. However, Librela was associated with fewer AEs compared to meloxicam.

Throughout the study, the following AEs were recorded and reported through the pharmacovigilance system

Seventeen dogs in the meloxicam group and 4 in the Librela group reported at least 1 AE

For the meloxicam group, 9 canines presented with gastrointestinal disorders, 3 musculoskeletal disorders, 3 neurological disorders, 1 skin and appendages disorder, and 1 behavioral disorder. 

For the Librela group, the AEs included 2 with musculoskeletal disorders, 1 with an interdigital cyst, and 1 systemic disorder, such as polydipsia

“Zoetis is committed to generating post-approval data on new innovations, like Librela. We previously shared study results showing that Librela improves quality of life in dogs. Zoetis supports peer-reviewed clinical research, and we are excited to see the results of those studies, such as this first comparative trial, being shared with veterinarians,” expressed Richard Goldstein, DVM, DECVIM-CA, DACVIM (SAIM), global chief medical officer and head of medical affairs at Zoetis.

Zoetis Announces Results from First Study Comparing Librela (bedinvetmab injection) to the NSAID Meloxicam. News release. Zoetis. March 24, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://news.zoetis.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2025/Zoetis-Announces-Results-from-First-Study-Comparing-Librela-bedinvetmab-injection-to-the-NSAID-Meloxicam-2025-xPPs4219G3/default.aspx

Innes JF, Lascelles DX, Bell D, et al. A randomized, parallel-group clinical trial comparing bedinvetmab to meloxicam for the management of canine osteoarthritis. 

. 2025;12. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2025.1502218

Results found Librela to have fewer adverse events and provided equal efficacy for managing osteoarthritis 

Librela and meloxicam comparison study results now available 

As pet ownership grows, access to care continues to be an issue. In response to the growing need for pet care, many veterinary clinics are opening new locations.

In addition to offering care to patients, some veterinary establishments are also working with their communities and taking new actions to support the broader animal care ecosystem, which includes pet owners.

Below are new veterinary facility openings, and more:

Elm City Vet, located near New Haven Green,  opened the doors to its new hospital. According to Elm City Vet, the practice has plans to offer services on the evenings and weekends to facilitate access to care. To mark its grand opening, the hospital will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony March 27th. In addition to offering care to pets in New Haven and surrounding areas, the hospital is also partnering with and supporting local businesses, organizations—cohosting an inaugural pet festival in the area.

"We believe in being more than just a veterinary hospital—we want to be a valued part of the New Haven community," Casey Miller, Elm City Vet hospital manager, said in a news release.

 "By partnering with local businesses and events, we aim to strengthen the bond between pet owners and their city."

Negola’s Animal Care (Columbia, Maryland)

Negola’s Animal Care, a clinic in Columbia, Maryland, recently announced a new initiative to support government employees that are currently facing financial uncertainty. To support local families depending on government employment in the area, Negola’s is offering a new program that gives government workers a discount on all services and priority same-day appointments. Through this new program, government employees will have access to preventive care, diagnostic testing, dental procedures, and emergency treatment at the discounted rate.

“As federal cuts continue to impact job security and household finances throughout Maryland, Negola's Animal Care is stepping up to ensure that economic pressures don't force families to compromise on their pets' health needs,” wrote Negola’s in a news release.

Paws Up Veterinary—a clinic also located in Columbia, Maryland—will be joining Columbia’s Merriweather district this summer. According to news reports, Paws Up Veterinary recently signed a lease for a 3,920 sq ft space that will offer affordable care and will blend modern technology with a “hometown feel.”

“I see my patients and their owners as more than income and numbers. With the big increase in corporate ownership, much of that close interaction has been lost. I am honored and proud to co-found such a modern, progressive practice where a client will always be warmly welcomed with quality care and a personal touch,” Timothy Cujdik, DVM, cofounder of the clinic, said in a news release.

New veterinary hospital, Elm City Vet, (part of the Pieper Veterinary Family), opened March 17th in downtown New Haven. News release. Pieper Veterinary. March 18, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-veterinary-hospital-elm-city-vet-part-of-the-pieper-veterinary-family-opened-march-17th-in-downtown-new-haven-302404948.html

Negola's Animal Care supports local government employees with same-day appointments and 15% discount amid a challenging government climate. News release. March 25, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/negolas-animal-care-supports-local-government-employees-with-same-day-appointments-and-15-discount-amid-a-challenging-government-climate-302411153.html

Howard Huges signs lease with Paws Up Veterinary at Juniper in downtown Columbia’s Merriweather district. News release. Citybiz. March 20, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. https://www.citybiz.co/article/674416/howard-hughes-signs-lease-with-paws-up-veterinary-at-juniper-in-downtown-columbias-merriweather-district/

Yeager A. Veterinary clinic coming to Merriweather district. 

 March 21, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. https://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/news/2025/03/21/visit-baltimore-names-interim-ceo-kireem-swinton.html

The latest updates relating to animal care establishments

Clinic center: Veterinary practice launches new initiative supporting government employees, and more 

The Senior Dog Veterinary Society is partnering with Loyal, a clinical-stage drug development company, to increase awareness about the importance of intentional care for older canines and to support veterinarians in providing care for these patients. Additionally, the organization recently announced a partnership with Elanco Animal Health, a manufacturer of therapies for managing chronic pain associated with canine osteoarthritis (OA), a common disease for aging dogs.

There are more than 26.5 million senior dogs in the US with this canine population growing at a rate of more than 10% annually over the past decade. The Senior Dog Veterinary Society was founded in 2023 by Lauren Adelman, DVM, DACVIM (SAIM), Monica Tarantino, DVM, MBA, and Lisa Lippman, DVM, to advance the growing need for care of senior and geriatric dogs as well as specialized knowledge and resources for practitioners. It offers continuing education (CE) courses, live events and branded resources to help improve patient outcomes.

Brennen McKenzie, MA, MSc, VMD, director of veterinary medicine at Loyal, said he knows firsthand how important it is to provide tailored care to senior dogs. He spent most of his career practicing veterinary medicine with small animals before pivoting to work with canine longevity drugs. “When the Senior Dog Veterinary Society first reached out to us, we were enthusiastic about working together towards our shared visions—to help all dogs live longer, healthier lives, including in their senior years. It’s been fun and rewarding to partner in promoting education for vets about the latest research and the newest clinical treatments our older canine friends need and deserve,” McKenzie said in a news release.

Loyal currently has 3 drugs in development that are designed to promote longer, healthier lifespans. Two of these drugs—LOY-001 and LOY-003—target large dogs, while the third, LOY-002, is intended for senior dogs. A daily pill, LOY-002 works to preserve metabolic health, which helps mitigate age-associated diseases, according to Loyal. 

 with a reasonable expectation of effectiveness designation in February 2025, and is forecasted for market availability in the next year.

Loyal is currently running the STAY clinical study to further examine LOY-002, and to provide effectiveness and field safety data for its’ FDA application for drug approval. In a 

interview, Ellen Ratcliff, DVM, vice president of clinical and veterinary medicine at Loyal, said the study has been running in approximately 70 US veterinary clinics. “It doesn’t do anybody any good if their dog lives longer, but they live longer in that period at the end of the life where they don’t feel well, and they’re sick, having all kinds of degenerative and aging diseases. So, the STAY study is also measuring quality of life according to the owner and the owner assessment of the dog’s quality of life,” Ratcliff said.

Adelman said partnering with Loyal is a major step for her organization’s mission to improve the care, comfort and quality of life for aging canines, in a news release. CE, informational articles and social media are included in the collaborative initiative, which also aims to advance solutions that help all dogs live a longer, healthier lifespan.

 “By combining our expertise in senior dog health, we can equip veterinarians and pet owners with innovative solutions and crucial education to help dogs live longer, happier lives,” she said.

In January 2025, the Senior Dog Veterinary Society entered into a strategic alliance with Elanco Animal Health that includes a focus on research and innovation. In a news release, Stephanie H. Loter, DVM, medical strategic lead, pain management for Elanco, said the company was “thrilled” with the partnership.

 “As pets live longer lives, their health needs evolve, and this partnership will help ensure that senior dogs receive the care and attention they deserve to thrive in their golden years,” Loter said.

Tarantino said the alliance with Elanco allows The Senior Dog Veterinary Society to expand its’ reach and impact. “Together, we can provide invaluable support to dog owners and the veterinary community,” she said in a news release.

The Senior Dog Veterinary Society’s programming also provides opportunities for veterinary professionals to earn credentials through 2 RACE-approved courses. The organization’s Level 1 certification is a 7-hour course that provides fundamentals of senior and geriatric canine care for veterinarians, specialists, technicians, assistants, and receptionists. Its’ 7 modules include introductions to senior dog care programs, communication with senior dog owners, and canine geroscience. The Level 2 certification course is 7.5 hours and is designed more for veterinarians, specialists and technicians. It offers focus on specialized areas in 7 modules that include end of life care, senior dog dentistry and common eye abnormalities in the older canine population.

Senior Dog Veterinary Society and Loyal Partner to increase awareness of senior dog care. News release. Loyal and Senior Dog Veterinary Society. March 26, 2025.

Senior Dog Veterinary Society announces strategic alliance with Elanco. News release. Senior Dog Veterinary Society. January 23, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://www.seniordogvets.com/_files/ugd/01d0db_1cec041010044635968870e15b617a32.pdf

Crossley KC. Second drug for canine healthy lifespan extension receives FDA support. 

. February 26, 2025. Accessed March 26, 2025. 

https://www.dvm360.com/view/second-drug-for-canine-healthy-lifespan-extension-receives-fda-support

Senior dog CE topics. Senior Dog Veterinary Society. Accessed March 25, 2025. 

https://www.seniordogvets.com/certification

Longevity drug developer Loyal and pain therapy manufacturer Elanco Animal Health are working with the organization to promote the need for aging canine care and enhance veterinary resources.