Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca in Dogs

SUMMARY Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (kcs) can be detected by using the Schirmer Tear Test, even though the cornea may not appear dry. Of the 122 affected eyes (71 dogs) of this study, 29 (24%) had corneal ulceration. Seven (14%) of 50 affected dogs recovered spontaneously and were helped during the period of the disease with either topical tear replacement or pilocarpine orally, or both. Most dogs not responding to medication were relieved of signs by parotid duct transposition (pdt), but the possibility of spontaneous recovery as well as potential postoperative complications dictate that medical treatment be tried first.