Non-healing eye ulcers in dogs, also known as "indolent ulcers" or "spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCED), are a persistent condition affecting the cornea of dogs' eyes. The cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye which becomes damaged, and the surface layer of cells are eroded or ulcerated. Corneal ulcers are often painful and can lead to discomfort, excessive tearing, squinting, and even vision impairment if left untreated. Once the cause of the corneal ulceration is treated, a normal, healthy eye should heal within 14 days. A non-healing ulcer or indolent ulcer may be diagnosed if an ulcer fails to heal after 14 days.

The exact cause of non-healing ulcers in dogs is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve abnormalities in the corneal epithelium, the outermost layer of the cornea. In corneas where non-healing ulcers are diagnosed, the cornea tries to heal by growing over, and covering the damage to the eye. However, they fail to adhere to the underlying cornea, forming a sheet of tissue floating over the eye. In eyes suffering from non-healing ulcers, it is thought that an impairment in the corneal epithelium attaching to the underlying cornea is the underlying cause for the disease.

Non-healing ulcers typically occurs in middle-aged to older dogs, and occurs in all breeds, but Boxers are overrepresented. Diagnosis of a non-healing ulcer in dogs typically involves a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, including a thorough evaluation of the cornea using specialised techniques such as fluorescein staining.

The goal of the treatment is to remove all the diseased tissue which has not attached to the underlying cornea. Once the diseased tissue is removed, the surface of the ulcer is then debrided to encourage healing. This may be performed using either a diamond burr or a needle. A third-eyelid flap or contact lens may then be placed over the eye to protect it while healing. The documented success rate with this treatment is approximately 80-90%, and we see similar results at McLaren Vale Veterinary Surgery. Occasionally, repeat treatment may be required or referral to an ophthalmologist specialist is needed.

Regular vet follow-up examinations are crucial to monitor the progression of non-healing ulcers and to adjust treatment as needed. With prompt and appropriate management, many dogs with corneal ulcers can experience significant improvement in their ocular comfort and overall quality of life.