Schirmer Tear Test for Dogs
In a Nutshell
- accurate and easy to use
- costs significantly more than vet office
- useful for home use if necessary
- expensive relative to vet costs
- would be better if price were lower
Quick Verdict
The Schirmer Tear Test is accurate and helpful, but its high cost relative to vet prices limits its value as a home kit.
Quick Stats
Pet Compatibility
Critical Warnings
The high cost (~5x that of a vet visit).
Prevention: Consider the cost savings from performing the test at a vet's office before purchasing the home kit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Easy to Use (2)
Many reviewers find the test straightforward and simple to perform.
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WORKS (2)
It functions accurately, providing reliable results in measuring dry eye levels.
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Student Ready (1)
Many users do not use it but admire how easy at a practice and hospice it was to work with.
Cons
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Too Expensive (2) major
Many reviewers find the kit to be overpriced, costing significantly more than if done at a vet’s office.
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Price Too High (3) high
The cost is seen as disproportionately high compared to the professional price justifying awkwardly buying it at home.
Who Is This For?
✓ Best For
- • Dog owners needing to test tear production at home — It is accurate and can be used without professional assistance, making it convenient for home use when needed.
✗ Skip If
- • Dog owners on a budget — The high cost makes it an impractical option when compared to professional services, which charge significantly less.
- • Dog owners who can easily visit a vet — The convenience of performing the test at a vet's office is preferable when time and money are well invested outside of easy travel to the vet.
Durability & Care
Cleaning Methods
Floor Compatibility
Rating Distribution
Common Questions
How does the tear test kit work?
It measures the amount of tear production in a certain time frame by using a strip that is placed in the eye of the dog, checking and measuring the wetness produced based on the reading.
What pets is this intended for?
This test is specifically for dogs. It can be instrumental for diagnosing or creating a sense of security testing for dry eye events.
Highlighted Reviews
"My vet recommended these for testing my dog’s eye dryness level because of possible side effects to a medication he was on. Great."
"This test at the vet's office is typically $20-40, this is insanity to charge 5 times higher the amount at the vet’s office. It should be bought thinking you are saving money because you really aren’t."
Bottom Line
This product is highly functional and easy to use. However, the significant cost relative to vet office costs, while accurate, makes it an average purchase and possibly an issue for users. If the price were comparable to doing the test in a professional setting, it would probably be recommended more favorably.