Pet Article

DISTICHIASIS AND DOGS

Distichiasis is the abnormal growth of an eyelash or several extra eyelashes. This congenital disease affects the meibomian glands along the eyelid. In some dogs, the position of the eyelash has not effect on the dog and it is likely to go unnoticed. However, if the eyelash makes direct contact with the surface of the eye, the eye may suffer from microscopic scratches and irritation. Over time, these scratches can become infected and may predispose your dog into developing a corneal ulcer. Breeds of dogs which have a high incidence of distichiasis include, cocker spaniels, chesapeake by retrievers, lhasa apsos, miniature poodles, golden retrievers, shelties and shih tzus.

Distichiasis is also commonly associated with tearing of the eye, squinting or a painful eye, visible scratches or white spots on the surface of the eye as well as eyelid spasms. Dogs who are showing signs of distichiasis are usually taken to their veterinarian when an eye infection is suspected. Although these dogs respond well to treatment, the infections may recur and the offending eyelash may remain hidden under the eyelid. An ophthalmic examination is often needed to reveal the eyelash, although this examination may require sedation.

The permanent treatment of distichiasis requires the removal of the offending eyelash or eyelashes. Plucking the eyelash will only result in regrowth, so other methods should be considered. Cryosurgery, or the freezing of the lid margin, can be used to prevent hair regrowth as can other surgical procedures. The surgical procedure your veterinarian proposes will be determined by the number of eyelashes and the state of the lids themselves. In some severe cases, your veterinarian may refer you to a veterinary opthalamologist for treatment.

Mark Woodcock
1 Flea Control