Distichiasis and ectopic cilia are relatively common genetic conditions of eyelids in dogs. Abnormal hair grows in the eyelids and can poke out onto the outer edge of the eyelid (distichia, generally not painful)or inward onto the cornea (ectopic cilia), which can be very painful for the poor dog that suffers from this condition.
Dogs with this conditions have all the symptoms of uncomfortable eyes such as tearing, blinking, redness and conjunctival infections, which can progress to corneal ulceration and worse case, loss of vision due to corneal scarring and eye loss if treatment isn’t sought.
Treatment isn't cheap - about $1,500 to $2,000 for "cryoepilation", where the vet freezes the offending hairs and pulls them out. Definitely something you'd want pet insurance to cover!
The dogs that are most affected are Shih Tzu's, but looking at Embrace claims, we've seen it in other breeds such as English Bulldogs, Brussels Griffon, Clumber Spaniels, and Pomeranians.
What has your experience been with these conditions?
