The Condition
Cherry eye is prolapse of the nictitating membrane (third eyelid gland). The gland protrudes as a red, swollen mass in the corner of the eye. Common in beagles. Not life-threatening but requires treatment to prevent chronic complications. The gland produces 30-40% of the eye's tear film.
Proper Treatment vs. Ridglan Practice
- Reposition the gland and suture in place
- Preserves tear production function
- Under general anesthesia
- Sterile technique
- Post-operative care and monitoring
- Excision with scissors — gland cut out entirely
- No anesthesia
- No blood control — dogs bled profusely
- No aftercare
- Non-veterinarians performed the procedures
- Dogs thrashing during cutting
Regulatory Consequences
Cherry eye procedures at Ridglan accounted for the majority of 311 DATCP violations. Classified as unlicensed veterinary practice — non-veterinarians performing surgical procedures. The lead vet, Richard Van Domelen, had his license suspended September 2025 for delegating these procedures to unlicensed staff.
Broader Context
Cherry eye surgery at Ridglan reflects the economic logic of high-volume breeding operations where veterinary costs are minimized and throughput is prioritized. The practice persisted for years under a USDA inspection regime that consistently failed to detect it — the same inspector found violations in only 4% of solo visits.