In this episode of Speaking of Pets, we're thrilled to welcome Dr. Jeff Bowersox, a distinguished veterinarian specializing in ophthalmology. A proud Buckeye, Dr. Bowersox earned his degrees in molecular genetics and veterinary medicine from Ohio State University. After completing an internship in Connecticut and a residency in ophthalmology, he now practices at the Veterinary Specialty Center of Delaware, where he was named Veterinarian of the Year in 2006. Join us as we delve into Dr. Bowersox's fascinating career, from treating exotic animals like toucans and owls to performing surgeries on tigers and giraffes. We'll also explore common pet eye issues, including cherry eye, dry eye, and cataracts, and discuss when to seek veterinary care for your pet’s eye health. Plus, we'll get his expert take on whether animals see color and if dogs really need sunglasses. Don't miss out on this insightful and entertaining conversation with one of the leading experts in veterinary ophthalmology! **Veterinary Ophthalmology Stories:** - Dr. Smith shares memorable experiences, including: - His early fascination with ophthalmology while assisting with a horse's eye treatment. - Treating a tree frog at the zoo with a piece of straw stuck in its eye. - Handling a police dog that saved its handler's life during a struggle with a criminal. - Performing post-op exams on a lion at the zoo and the challenges of working with such powerful animals. - The ongoing struggle with owners about the necessity of the Elizabethan collar (e-collar) to prevent self-trauma after eye surgeries. - Addressing ineffective alternatives like inflatable collars and emphasizing the importance of using the right protective equipment. **Interactions with Notable Clients:** - Dr. Smith recounts experiences with high-profile clients, including President Joe Biden's dogs, and the unique security measures involved. Dr. Bowersox has volunteered with several animal and wildlife rehabilitation shelters in both Arizona and the Mid-Atlantic region. He currently is a consultation with Tri-State Bird Rescue, and the Brandywine Zoo in Wilmington as well as a medical consultant for Canine Partners for Life, a nonprofit that raises and trains service dogs. He also screens therapy pets for ocular disease from PAWS for People annually. Dr. Bowersox is a career-long member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and has lectured at the AVMA National Convention as well as several local and regional veterinary meetings in Arizona, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. He is a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Medical Association, a member of the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association, a member of the American Society of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, and a member of the International Society of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. He previously was an Ophthalmology Consultant for the Veterinary Information Network (VIN). Dr. Bowersox is a member of the Delaware Veterinary Medical Association where he currently serves on the DVMA Executive Board as the Past-President and on the DVMA Government Relations Committee. He previously has held numerous positions on the DVMA Executive Board and has served as County Representative, Vice President, and President of the DVMA. https://dogpainrelief.com/directory-paid_pre_spe/listing/dr-jeffrey-bowersox/ Support our sponsor for this episode Blue Buffalo by visiting bluebuffalo.com. BLUE Natural Veterinary Diet formulas offer the natural alternative in nutritional therapy. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. At Blue Buffalo, we have an in-house Research & Development (R&D) team with over 300 years’ experience in well-pet and veterinary therapeutic diets, over 600 scientific publications, and over 50 U.S. patents. All footage owned