Do your dog's eyelids roll inwards causing irritation, pain, and other eye problems? Sounds like entropion. Today's post delves into the topic of etropian in dogs, including causes, symptoms and treatment.
What is entropion in dogs?
Entropion is primarily a genetic abnormality that causes the dog's eyelids to roll inward. This inward positioning means that your pup's fur and eyelashes rub against the surface of the eye often causing pain, conjunctivitis, eye infections, corneal ulcers, perforations, and in some cases the development of pigment on the cornea which interferes with your dog's vision.
Entropion is a common problem in several breeds including Toy and Miniature Poodle, Akita, Staffordshire Terrier, Basset Hound, Bloodhound, Bulldog, Dalmatian, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Flat-coated Retriever, Golden Retriever, Gordon Setter, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Irish Setter, Japanese Chin, Bernese Mountain Dog, Labrador Retriever, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Weimaraner, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Pug, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Shih Tzu, Saint Bernard, Siberian Husky, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Tibetan Spaniel, Vizsla, Yorkshire Terrier and Clumber Spaniel.
Is entropion in dogs painful?
Yes! As you can imagine, the relentless irritation caused by the lashes rubbing on the surface of the eye causes extreme discomfort and can result in recurring infections, corneal ulcers, eye damage or even vision loss.
What are the signs of entropion?
Signs of entropion typically appear early with most dogs being diagnosed before they reach their first birthday. Squinting, excessive tearing and holding eyes shut are the most common signs of entropion. Although in some cases flat-faced dogs will show no outward signs of discomfort.
Can dogs grow out of entropion?
Puppies will sometimes grow out of entropion and no treatment will be required. However, if your dog continues to experience issues due to entropion beyond their first birthday treatment will be required.
Left untreated the eyelid will continue to cause irritation, and depending on the breed, may get worse as the dog develops more skin folds around their eyes.
How is entropion in dogs treated?
In puppies and young dogs, if the condition is causing discomfort, an entropion repair known as 'tacking' or temporary eyelid eversion can help to relieve symptoms.
Medical treatments with antibiotic ointments can be prescribed to decrease damage to the cornea, but medications will not resolve the entropion itself.
To correct the issue surgery will be required.
What is the process for entropion eye surgery in dogs?
If entropion continues to be an issue as your puppy reaches their first birthday surgery can be performed, to correct the issue and relieve your pup's discomfort.
To avoid over-correcting this condition (which could lead to an outward rolling of the eyelids) two surgeries are often performed, the first being the primary (major) correction and the second being a minor corrective surgery.
Blepharoplasty is a surgical eyelid reconstruction. During the blepharoplasty process, the excess skin and muscle of your dog's outer lids will be removed. Any excess skin that causes skin folds may also be removed. Then your dog's eyelids will be tightened.
Before and after the entropion surgery your dog may be prescribed medications such as ophthalmic antibiotics or lubricants to treat conditions resulting from the irritation caused by entropion.
How much does entropion in dogs surgery cost?
The cost of entropion surgery for dogs varies depending on several factors including the severity of your dog's case, the overall health of your dog, and even where you live. To get an accurate estimate of the cost of your dog's entropion surgery speak to your vet. Most veterinary clinics are happy to provide clients with a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with surgical procedures.
What is the prognosis for dogs with entropion?
Following surgery, most dogs recover well and the condition does not return. That said, recurrence is common in Shar Peis due to their excessive folds of skin around the eyes.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.