Support Hub

You and your dog deserve support now, not years from now. Science may take a long time to find answers, but your dog's comfort and your peace of mind can't wait, and that matters more than anything. That's why we'll stand alongside you, supporting you as fully and as quickly as we can, while we're able to do so.

Advice on dry eye treatment from David Williams, Veterinary Ophthalmologist:

Every dog is different, so please discuss any change to your dog's treatment with your own vet or ophthalmologist before making it.

Ciclosporin (Optimmune) and tacrolimus work by calming the immune system, and they are the standard treatments for immune-mediated dry eye. Among the dogs David is currently treating for sudden bilateral dry eye, tacrolimus has been working in quite a few cases. If your dog is not improving on its current treatment, ask your vet whether tacrolimus might be worth trying.

Keeping the eye well lubricated remains one of the most important parts of managing dry eye. David's preferred lubricant is Remend Corneal Repair Gel. The way it flows across the eye closely mimics natural tears. Supply has been difficult at times because it is made in the United States.

That said, there is no single right product. Each dog may respond best to a
particular drop or gel, so it can take some trial to find the one that suits
your dog. If your dog's current lubricant does not seem to be helping, speak to
your vet about trying an alternative.

Please do not stop or change any prescribed treatment without first speaking to your vet.

This advice is based on David's own conversations with owners of dogs affected by sudden bilateral dry eye. It is not based on a formal study or clinical trial and should not be taken as proven or as a substitute for your own vet's advice. Treatment decisions should always be made with your vet, based on your dog's
individual needs.

Wherever your dog is in their dry eye journey, we still want to help. The following support is open to every owner, on an ongoing basis in your Years account area. If you purchased Years for a shop, then please get in touch and the team will arrange access.

Speak directly with a specialist veterinary ophthalmologist from home, at no cost to you. They can review your dog's condition, talk you through treatment options and answer any questions you have. Every specialist is fully independent of Years. We don't direct their advice or influence what they tell you.

Book a free video consultation with an RCVS-registered veterinary surgeon to review your dog's current treatment. If medication is needed, they'll issue a prescription at no cost. You can then buy the medicine from an online or local pharmacy, which is often cheaper than buying through a vet practice.

Once you have a free prescription from our veterinary team, you can buy your dog's medicines for less. We've found three trusted pharmacy options, which you'll find in your account. Compare prices and choose the one that works best for you.

Whatever's on your mind about your dog's health, big or small, our RCVS-registered vets are here to help. Book a free video consultation to talk through anything from skin and ear problems to tummy upsets, weight, mobility or changes in behaviour.

Worried about your dog at 2am? You don't have to wait until morning. Send a video message to our network of more than 70 practising vets, and you'll get a personal video reply with the advice you need.