Billie, a lovely horse recently featured on our Facebook page, captured the interest of many of our followers. Given the response, we wanted to share more about her case and discuss equine eye injuries — one of the most common emergencies we encounter.

Billie’s Story: A Remarkable Recovery

Billie was found by her owners with a severe eye ulcer. A quick decision had to be made, as delaying treatment could have resulted in the loss of her eye. She was referred to Willinga Park Vet Hospital for a conjunctival graft and intensive medical management. Even with aggressive treatment, there was less than a 30 percent chance that Billie would regain vision.

Remarkably, thanks to the expert care at Willinga Park, ongoing support from Bungendore Vet, and the dedication of her owners, Billie has made an incredible recovery. She is back to being ridden and has nearly perfect vision, with only a small central scar that will continue to fade over time.

Eye injuries in horses are not minor inconveniences—they are emergencies that demand immediate veterinary attention. Horses’ large, laterally positioned eyes make them particularly vulnerable to trauma, infections, and irritation. Acting swiftly can be the difference between full recovery and permanent vision loss. Even a seemingly small scratch on the cornea can turn into a severely infected ulcer, leading to permanent damage or even blindness.

Common Causes of Eye Trauma in Horses

Common causes of equine eye injuries include:

• Foreign objects such as dirt, hay, or shavings

• Trauma from kicks or head bumps

• Corneal ulcers that can arise from even minor scratches

• Conditions like uveitis (inflammation inside the eye, sometimes triggered by trauma)

These can cause long-term damage if not controlled promptly.

Early Signs to Watch Out For

Recognising early signs of an eye problem is crucial. Symptoms such as squinting, excessive blinking, swelling, discharge, cloudiness, rubbing the eye, or sensitivity to light should never be ignored.

If you suspect your horse has an eye injury, immediate action is essential. Contact your veterinarian right away, avoid using human medications, and keep your horse in a shaded area to minimise discomfort. A fly mask can also help protect the eye until veterinary care is available.

The Takeaway from Billie’s Story

Billie’s case highlights the importance of prompt and dedicated care in managing eye injuries. Her story is a testament to what can be achieved with expert veterinary treatment and committed ownership.

If you have any concerns about your horse’s eyes or notice unusual symptoms, please contact Bungendore Vet Clinic to speak with our team or book an appointment — prompt action can make all the difference.