Ectropion

It is a prevalent condition in dogs where they develop droopy eyelids or outward rolled up eyelids. The condition can affect both eyes or a single eye. Often inherited along with a likely tendency of occurring in some specific breeds, this condition is mainly categorized by the loose and droopy skin.

Some specific breeds are:

• St. Bernards
• Bloodhounds
• Bluffstiffs
• Newfoundlands
• Great Danes

There are a few other breeds who have a natural disposition to ectropion. Developmental ectropion is prevalent in the young dogs. Hereditary factors also play an essential role and it is important to remember that ectropion may develop as an outcome of a nerve damage. Sudden injury can damage the cornea, or specific infections result in inflammatory conditions causing ectropion in the future.

Some of the causes are:

• Paralysis of the facial nerve
• Minor or severe hypothyroidism
• Secondary injury for things like the scarring
• The eyes can have infection or inflammation of the surrounding tissues
• Overcorrection of entropion in operation
• Diseases of the neurons

Signs & Symptoms

An affected dog can have a variety of signs associated with ectropion. Some of the symptoms appear similar to other conditions of the eyes. So an owner should always consult a vet as soon as possible to avoid future consequences.

• Eyelids appear droopy
• Conjunctiva have redness & inflammation
• Pet shed tears profusely
• Most of the infections result from frequent exposure of the lower conjunctiva

Diagnosis

Diagnosis generally is made with several physical examinations. If the pet is aged, the vet may perform urine and blood tests to check for an underlying cause. The vet may also perform corneal staining to check the cornea and determine the presence of corneal ulceration. Nerve or Muscle biopsies can be conducted if the veterinarian suspects neuromuscular disease.

Treatment

The pet will tolerate ectropion unless the condition becomes severe. The dog and the owner can avoid surgical intervention with frequent eye drops. In many cases that are not critical requires little intervention with topical drops or ointments. However, extreme cases of ectropion don't improve without a surgery. Several surgical procedures can reduce ectropion.

How safe are surgeries?

Surgical correction in most of the cases is successful. The veterinarian may also suggest two different surgeries to prevent overcorrection, as it will cause entropion. The dog will need surgical intervention when there is excessive secondary swelling or infection of the tissues around the affected eye.

Prevention

It is because of its hereditary nature, the affected canine can transmit the infection to other dogs. The breeders should not breed the affected dog with other healthy breeds By far the best option to protect a pet will be to keep leashed every time.