What happened to our carefree worry-free world that we took for granted prior to September 11 and will we ever be in a position to regain that life?

Most of us were spared being touched by those events and some of us had friends and relatives precariously close who were also spared. We hope that you and yours are all well today.

We have been placed in a position where we must protect ourselves with positive actions to prevent any further recurrence. Hopefully our children and grandchildren will see a peaceful existence.

KCS - Keratonconjunctivitis Sicca - "Dry Eye"

What in the world is that varmint? This is commonly called KCS or “Dry Eye” The animal is presented with a heavy, thick exudate from the eye. In the latter stages there is a pigment (melanin) that is deposited on the cornea making it semi-transparent and eventually non-transparent which results in a blind eye.

Secondary bacterial infection becomes a problem that must be addressed with antibiotics. The whole syndrome is the result of a diminished production of tears from the tear gland. (Lacrimal gland) Causes can be numerous. A trauma to the lacrimal gland area can damage the organ and cause diminished tear production. Bacterial infections of the gland itself can incapacitate the gland as well as virus infections. Autoimmune infections (the body produces antibodies against its own glandular organs) are some of the many causes. Diagnosis can be accomplished with a Schirmer Tear test that measures and demonstrates the amount of tears being produced by the eye.

Treatment consists of the application of an ointment (Cyclosporin) that stimulates the lacrimal gland and also has the capacity to depress auto-immune disease. Appropriate antibiotics are applied to the eye to combat secondary bacterial infection along with systemic antibiotics. The use of artificial tear drops is important in trying to keep the eye moist Medications can be placed in the food to stimulate tear production.

Surgical transplantation of a salivary duct into the eye can be beneficial. KCS is generally recognized as a non-curable condition that can usually be controlled and managed with lifelong medication.

Protect our pets from the ghouls and goblins of Halloween. Be conscious of the fact that excess candy and wrappers as well as chocolate can be toxic to our animal friends.

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