Ophthalomology / First Visit

This service is available at:
Bulger Veterinary Hospital
Capital District Veterinary Referral Hospital
Boston West Veterinary Emergency and Specialty
Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital
Port City Veterinary Referral Hospital

Prior To Visit

• Have your veterinarian fax medical record to us prior to your appointment.
• Collect your current and previous ophthalmic medications to bring to the visit.
• We recommend no breakfast for your pet the morning of the visit in case a surgical procedure is recommended for that day.
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your examination time to complete any paperwork.

The First Visit

• The veterinary ophthalmic technician will perform preliminary examinations including:
  • Tear production test
  • Glaucoma test
  • Examination for corneal ulceration
    It is very possible that your veterinarian has performed these tests recently; however our staff performs these procedures on all new cases as the condition of the eye can change very quickly.
• The ophthalmologist will examine the front of the eye with a biomicroscope and the retina with an ophthalmoscope.
• He or she will discuss her examination findings. Depending on your pet’s condition, she may recommend ophthalmic medications, surgery, additional diagnostic tests, or a combination of all of the above.

You will leave with a detailed discharge record explaining your pet’s condition, instructions for administering medications, information about medications, and an estimate for any recommended additional procedures. In addition, we will fax a letter to your family veterinarian explaining her findings and recommendations.