What is Entropion in Dogs?
Entropion is a condition where the eyelid is turned inwards, meaning that the eyelashes and eyelid touch the eye.
This may happen to the upper or lower eyelid and causes the eyelid hair to irritate the eye and results in inflammation of the white part of the eye and excessive tearing.
It is a genetic condition, meaning it is passed from the Mother or Father.
It usually happens to young dogs, and can appear as early as a few weeks of age.
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Types of Entropion
- Lateral entropion where the side of the eye is inverted.
- Medial canthal entropion, where the medial corner of the eye is inverted.
- Genetic entropion, which is then the condition is inherited in some breeds. This condition is better controlled with surgery.
Effects of Entropion on dogs?
A close look at the puppy’s eyes reveals that an eyelid is inverted toward the eye.
Eye infections that ‘cause itching are considered a risk factor that may favour entropion.
Outlook
The outlook is good, although the condition may come back, it is not a serious condition.
Entropion is a source of discomfort, it is painful and without treatment then complications will soon follow.
Is Entropion dangerous for my Shih Tzu? Can this make him blind?
Shih Tzu is a breed which this condition is common in.
Without treatment, yes it can.
Is Entropion painful for my Shih Tzu?
This condition is painful for all dogs.
How is the disease detected?
The veterinarian may perform additional tests to check for any opens sores on the cornea and assess any tearing that has happened.
Tests include
Treatments
This condition does not go away on its own and the best solution is by doing corrective surgery.
Entropion eye Surgery for Dogs
Entropion corrective surgery has better results in adult dogs where the eyelid shape will not vary so much.
In young puppies, correction of entropion may not have such good results because the shape of the eyelid is not stable. On this occasion, a temporary method called tarsorrhaphy is performed, once this is done the eyelids are partially sewn together to keep the irritating eyelid retracted and relieve the underlying eye inflammation.
Once the shape of the eyelid is confirmed in the puppy, permanent corrective surgery is recommended.
Other Options
Surgery Success Rate
Permanent surgery has a high success rate.
Complications
Eyelid swelling and pain may occur, but this can be controlled by the use of oral anti-inflammatory drugs.
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Surgery Cost for Entropion in Dogs
Entropion reduction surgery costs around $400.
For cases where the condition comes back, the cost may be higher.
Recovery
The eyelid stitches at least 10 days to be absorbed.
A follow up is recommended with the vet, and a special collar is given to prevent the puppy from itching his eyes.
After surgery, a rest period is recommended, where the puppy must avoid exercise or outdoor walks until his eye heals completely.
Prevention
Entropion in Dogs is a genetic condition! So there is nothing much that can be done to prevent it! Except for selective breeding.
If your dog has a medical issue, please consult your own veterinarian for treatment and further advice!
