Hear From the Vet: Dr. Jim Carlson on Supporting Lifelong Eye Wellness in Pets
At OcluVet, we're passionate about helping pet owners take a proactive approach to eye wellness. To gain a veterinary perspective, we spoke with Dr. Jim Carlson, holistic veterinarian and owner of Riverside Animal Clinic.
With years of experience helping dogs and cats live healthier lives, Dr. Carlson shares his thoughts on eye health, ageing, and why prevention matters.
Why is eye wellness important for dogs and cats?
Dr. Carlson: "Vision plays a huge role in a pet's quality of life. Healthy eyes allow pets to navigate their environment, interact confidently with their families, and stay active as they age. Like any other aspect of wellness, eye health deserves attention throughout a pet's lifetime."
Do pet owners pay enough attention to eye care?
Dr. Carlson: "Most pet owners are excellent at caring for their pets, but eye wellness is often overlooked until a visible change occurs. By then, many owners are only beginning to think about eye care. I encourage people to view eye wellness the same way they view nutrition or dental care—as something that benefits from consistency."
What changes do you commonly see in ageing pets?
Dr. Carlson: "As pets age, it's common to see gradual changes in their eyes. Many dogs develop a bluish-grey haze known as nuclear sclerosis, which is a normal age-related change. Owners may also notice their pets becoming more cautious in low light or unfamiliar environments."
Why are antioxidants receiving so much attention in pet wellness?
Dr. Carlson: "Antioxidants are important because they support the body's natural defense systems. The eyes are highly active tissues, and like the rest of the body, they benefit from nutrients that support healthy cellular function. That's why antioxidants have become a growing area of interest in both human and veterinary wellness."
What makes OcluVet different?
Dr. Carlson: "What I find interesting about OcluVet is its focus on antioxidant support. Many eye products focus primarily on cleaning or lubricating the eye. OcluVet takes a different approach by incorporating ingredients such as N-Acetyl-L-Carnosine (NAC) and glutathione, which are known for their antioxidant properties."
What's your advice for pet owners wanting to support healthy ageing?
Dr. Carlson: "Think long-term. Healthy ageing isn't about one product or one decision. It's about building healthy habits over time—quality nutrition, exercise, regular veterinary care, and proactive wellness routines. Small actions taken consistently can make a meaningful difference throughout a pet's life."
Final Thoughts
When asked what message he'd most like pet owners to remember, Dr. Carlson's answer was simple:
"Don't wait until changes become obvious. Wellness works best when it becomes part of your everyday routine."
At OcluVet, we couldn't agree more.
About Dr. Jim Carlson
Dr. Jim Carlson is a holistic veterinarian and owner of Riverside Animal Clinic. He is passionate about helping pet owners take a proactive approach to wellness through nutrition, preventative care, and healthy ageing strategies.
Support Your Pet's Eye Wellness Journey
OcluVet Eye Drops contain antioxidant ingredients including N-Acetyl-L-Carnosine (NAC) and glutathione in a preservative-free formula designed for dogs and cats.
