What Is Entropion in Dogs?
Entropion is an eye condition that causes a dog's eyelids to fold in towards the eye and causes the eyelashes to rub against the cornea. It occurs in a wide variety of purebred dogs and causes a lot of irritation. The condition is usually discovered soon after birth, but it can develop later in life as well.
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Symptoms
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Dogs who suffer from entropion will usually squint or have partially shut eyes. Tearing and discharge may also occur, and eyes will be reddened and inflamed, states Dr. Bari Spielman of Pet Place. Because the condition is painful and irritating, dogs will often scratch at their eyes with their paws. This should be stopped if witnessed since it can cause further damage.
Diagnosis
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In order to effectively diagnose entropion, an ocular examination by a qualified veterinarian needs to take place. The position of the eyelid is assessed and a careful examination around the eyelid edges can reveal ingrown or oddly placed eyelashes. Fluorescein dye is also applied and will turn bright green if corneal ulcers have occurred due to the condition, according to Dr. Bari Spielman.
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Treatment
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If left untreated, scar tissue can develop on the cornea as a natural protection against the abrasion, which leads to intraocular infections and blindness. Treatment is important and requires surgery by an experienced veterinarian. Surgical techniques also vary depending on the breed and age of the dog. Young dogs less than six months old undergo an eyelid tacking procedure by using sutures or skin staples to pull the eyelids outward to prevent damage as the puppy grows, says Dr. Bari Spielman. In older dogs, skin is removed near the eyelid margin in order to return it to a normal position.
Home Care
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To prevent further damage due to entropion, medication for corneal ulcers should be given. An Elizabethan collar should be worn after surgery at all times in order to keep your dog from rubbing its eyes. The dog's eyes must also be checked regularly to ensure there is no tearing or squinting, according to Dr. Bari Spielman. Repeated veterinarian visits may also be required to make sure the eyes are healing properly and that no additional treatment is required.
Considerations
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Most experts believe entropion is inherited because it is a genetic condition. Veterinarians encourage spaying or neutering dogs that develop entropion. This prevents a dog with entropion from passing it on to puppies and spreading the condition further.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit dog image by Michal Tudek from Fotolia.com
