The American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists today announced a 25 percent increase in service animal exams from last year at the ACVO/Merial National Service Dog Eye Exam Event. More than 200 volunteer board certified veterinary ophthalmologists throughout the U.S. and Canada examined 4,000 service animals during the annual event, which took place May 23. Guide dogs, assistance dogs, detection dogs, search and rescue dogs and other service animals including horses and a service donkey received free vision exams. As part of the program, a team of ACVO doctors hosted a service dog screening event at Lackland Air Force B ase in San Antonio at the Department of Defense Military Working Dog Center. Approximately 150 Transportation Security Agency dogs and military working dogs were screened. “We are beyond pleased by the number of service animals that received a free eye exam during this year’s event,” says Stacee Daniel, executive director of the ACVO. “Our volunteer veterinary ophthalmologists saw a record 4,000 animals which will help them stay in good eye health and continue to do their job of helping others.” The ACVO/Merial National Service Dog Eye Exam Event goals are to benefit individuals who rely on service dogs, strengthen referral relationships between veterinary ophthalmologists and primary care veterinarians, gather data relative to work performance for future work recommendations and to preserve the sight of animals. Registration for the event takes place in April of each year and the exams take place in May. To qualify, animals must be active working animals that were certified by a formal training program or organization or currently enrolled in a formal training program. Click here for more information. <Home>
