- Entropion is the inward turning of one or both of the eyelids. This causes the hair to brush against the eyeball, causing irritation, ulcers, scarring, vision loss and even complete blindness if treatment is not provided.
- Entropion can be inherited through certain bloodlines. Some breeds are more prone to entropion than others such as the chow chow, Shar-Pei, Rottweiler, bulldog, Labrador retriever, cocker spaniel and bloodhound. According to the Ophthalmology Service of the VCA Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle, entropion is also more prevalent in males than females. In addition to inheritable factors, entropion can also be caused from other existing health issues.
- Puppies with entropion will tear heavily from the affected eye. You may need to pull the eyelid back to look for the inversion because most dogs or puppies with entropion will hold the affected eye shut due to the discomfort caused by the hair brushing the eyeball.
- Temporary tacking of the eyelid is used in puppies under 6 months of age who have entropion. This is because of the lack of conformational maturity. After 6 months of age, surgical correction can be performed. In this surgery, tissue is removed from the inside of the eyelid to allow it to lie correctly over the eyeball. According to Susan Jacobi, DVM, more extensive surgical intervention will be necessary for older dogs.
- Entropion can reoccur, even after surgical correction. In some cases, multiple surgeries may be required over time.
