Things You'll Need:
- Dog
- Veterinarian
-
Step 1
Know the causes:
Ectropion can occur in any dog breed, but it considered an inherited characteristic in dog breeds such as the Basset Hound, Bloodhound, Cocker Spaniel, Clumber Spaniel, English Bulldog, Mastiff, Newfoundland, and St. Bernard. In other breeds, it is often seen in young dogs who have not yet matured into their facial structure and older dogs who are losing muscle tone.
Other causes of ectropion include marked weight loss, loss of muscle mass, injury to the eye or eyelid, chronic inflammation in the eye, surgical overcorrection of entropion (inward turning of the eyelid), and hypothyroidism. Temporary ectropion may be seen when the dog is fatigued after a hard day at play. -
Step 2
Know the symptoms:
Dogs with ectropion will have lower eyelids that roll forward, exposing the eye. The conjunctiva may appear red or inflamed due to dryness from exposure or irritation from foreign objects. The pouch that is formed by the eyelid can accumulate grass, dust, pollen or other items that will rub against the eye and the conjunctiva, causing the eye to produce excessive tears, thick discharge, or to become infected. In some cases, the cornea may show signs of inflammation or scarring. -
Step 3
Know how it is diagnosed:
Diagnosis of ectropion is made by visual examination. The veterinarian will check for other eye abnormalities or injuries. A test involving fluorescein dye may be done to determine if there has been damage done to the cornea. In older dogs, the veterinarian may do a complete blood and urine profile to rule out underlying health problems. -
Step 4
Know how it is treated:
Many dogs do not require treatment for ectropion. Dogs who suffer eye irritation due to ectropion normally respond well to eye lubrication drops and ointments. Antibiotics will be used to treat eye infections.
In cases where ectropion is due to underlying health problems, treatment will address the overall condition of the dog. Ectropion will generally correct itself once the animal has returned to normal health.
Intermittent ectropion associated with fatigue does not need to be treated. -
Step 5
Know when surgery is required:
The veterinarian may suggest surgery in severe cases where damage is being done to the cornea or conjunctiva.
The most common procedure is to make a small incision, remove a portion of the eyelid, and then suture the two sides of the incision together. This has the effect of shortening the eyelid and pulling it into proper position. -
Step 6
Know how to treat it at home:
Home treatment consists of providing the dog with good eye and facial hygiene. Watch the dog for signs of irritation and consult your veterinarian if the dog appears uncomfortable or if there are signs of infection. Administer all medication as directed by your veterinarian and keep all follow-up appointments.
If the dog has been treated by means of surgery, watch for any signs of irritation or infection. Prevent the animal from scratching at its eyes by using an Elizabethan (cone) dog collar. Your veterinarian will typically want to recheck the dog 10 to 14 days after surgery to make sure healing is progressing well and to remove the sutures.
Comments
langleycornwell said
on 10/30/2009 This is very good information. I've seen the condition but never actually knew what ectropion was.
rockymtngrma said
on 7/9/2009 Very thorough article. Every dog lover should read it. Thanks!
edieness said
on 7/9/2009 Great tips on How to Recognize and Treat Ectropion in Dogs.
bellerose said
on 7/3/2009 Good job--I know of several dogs that have something like this including one I had as a kid. We used to wash her eyes with boric acid a lot. She hated it at first, but not so much after a while. Now I know what it is. 5*