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Treatment and Care

In young dogs secondary problems are addressed first. Ulcerated corneas can be treated with antibiotic or triple antibiotic ointments. If the condition is mild and the corneas are not ulcerated, artificial tears can be used to lubricate the eyes; however, surgery is often required. This is done by temporarily turning the eyelid inward or outward (everting) through suturing. This surgery is done in moderate cases, and when an adult dog with no history of the condition exhibits entropion. In severe cases facial reconstruction will be necessary, but this is generally avoided until the dog has reached adult size.

Living and Management

Entropion requires routine follow-up care, with any medications prescribed by your veterinarian. This may include antibiotics to treat or prevent infection, and eye drops or ointment. In the case of temporary non-surgical solutions, there may be a need to repeat the procedure until the problem has been resolved, or until your dog is old enough for a more permanent solution. If your dog is suffering, or is scratching at the affected eye, you may want to use an Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from scratching at the eye and making it worse.

Prevention

As entropion is usually caused by a genetic predisposition, it cannot really be prevented. If your dog is of a breed that is known to be affected with entropion, prompt treatment is your best option once it is diagnosed.