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My dog's eye won't heal. Can I request enucleation if I can't afford care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 5 years and 3 months old | 85 lbs

My dog had her two week recheck after diamond burr keratotomy and I'm not surprised to learn she's not healed. I cannot afford this anymore. I asked about enucleation but was told that I would never find a vet who would do it because the eye is healthy. I cannot afford $120 every week for these endless rechecks when nothing changes. I don't know what to do now. Is it unreasonable to ask for definitive treatment if the alternative is no treatment at all or having to give her away?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 9th, 2020

I'm sorry this happened and I know you are frustrated but you must remember that dogs, just like humans, don't always respond to treatments and surgery like we hope they would. It is the nature of a living being. So please don't be frustrated with your vets. I am sure they are frustrated too. I, personally, as a vet, would enucleate the eye if it was not healing and the owner has financial constraints. So, I don't find your request that unreasonable. You may have to try a different vet clinic. I suggest you try these resources for help: http://nevadahumanesociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Nevada-Humane-Society-Financial-Assistance.pdf

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