Entropion is a condition which cause the eyelids to fold inward toward the eye. When the eyelashes then brush against the eyeballs, irritation, pain, and damage to the cornea will occur. Entropion can occur on the upper eyelids, the lower eyelids, or both.
The most common symptoms of entropion in dogs include squinting and excessive tearing. The eyes may also appear gummy, the dog may have difficulty opening its eyes (especially in sunlight), and the dog may appear depressed or aggressive due to the pain this condition causes.
When diagnosing entropion in dogs, your veterinarian will perform a general examination and ask if you’ve been noticing some telltale signs of the disorder in your dog, including: frequent squinting, a reddened and inflamed eye, or repeatedly scratching his eye with his paw.
Dog owners can attempt to alleviate the symptoms of entropion by applying eye drops and other topical remedies. However, the only effective treatment for entropion is surgery. One surgical option is called tacking. The other option involves the removal of a small piece of the eyelid and suturing the skin and other tissue to shorten the lid.