Dr Kelly Caruso

Bio

Kelly Caruso is a dedicated and pioneering Veterinary Ophthalmologist, as well as the proud owner and operator of the Eye Clinic for Animals Australia. Originally from the United States, Kelly relocated to Australia in 2010, bringing her expertise and passion for animal eye health to a new continent. Working alongside a talented team of ophthalmologists, including her husband, Dr Cameron Whittaker, Kelly has made significant strides in veterinary ophthalmology. Together, they have two children, Henry and Isla, and share their home with three dogs and two cats, embodying their love and commitment to animals both professionally and personally.

Kelly’s career is marked by innovative contributions to the field. She has pioneered a groundbreaking technique utilising Restylane (filler) for reconstructing eyelid defects in cats born without eyelids. This innovation has set new standards in veterinary surgery, significantly improving the quality of life for countless animals.

In a historic achievement, Kelly, Cameron, and their resident, Dr Gladys Boo, were the first in the world to perform a corneal endothelial transplant in veterinary medicine. This revolutionary procedure, Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK), offers hope for treating Corneal Endothelial Degeneration (CED), a condition akin to Fuchs’ Endothelial Cell Degeneration in humans. Recognising the anatomical differences between species, Kelly and Cameron developed specialised instruments for canine patients. Named after their children, the HENSLA series reflects their personal and professional dedication to advancing veterinary care.

Kelly studied at the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary School, where she earned her VMD. She completed multiple internships in equine, small animal, emergency and critical care, and ophthalmology, followed by residency training in Washington, DC. There, she honed her skills and deepened her knowledge in veterinary ophthalmology.

Passionate about teaching and collaboration in medicine and surgery, Kelly firmly believes in excellence without compromise. Her dedication to education is evident in the teaching awards she has received for guiding interns and residents in treating eye conditions.

Kelly also emphasises the importance of giving back to her specialty through research. Her numerous publications contribute significantly to the advancement of veterinary ophthalmology. These works underscore her commitment to improving the vision and overall well-being of animals while inspiring colleagues worldwide.

Selected Publications:

• Retrospective assessment of ophthalmic disease development in domestic dogs and cats when hospitalised with tick paralysis caused by Ixodes holocyclus. Australian Veterinary Journal, 2024.
• Free labial mucocutaneous graft for eyelid reconstruction in four dogs. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 2024.
• Feline distichiasis treated with cryoepilation: A retrospective study of 15 cats (27 eyes). Veterinary Ophthalmology, 2024.
• Ophthalmic findings associated with Australian tick paralysis (holocyclotoxicity) in hospitalised domestic dogs and cats. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 2024.
• Superficial keratectomy for the treatment of spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects in dogs. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 2024.
• An investigation into the development of qualitative tear film disorders in dogs following cryoepilation for distichiasis. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 2022.
• Textbook chapters: “Ophthalmology of Marsupials” and “Ophthalmology of Monotremes.” Wild and Exotic Animal Ophthalmology, 2022.
• Use of subdermal hyaluronic acid injections and a free labial mucocutaneous graft for the repair of feline eyelid agenesis. Veterinary Ophthalmology, 2021.

Kelly Caruso’s innovative spirit, relentless pursuit of excellence, and dedication to animal care continue to make a profound impact in the field of veterinary ophthalmology, advancing both patient outcomes and professional practices.