Hi

I went to get one of my dogs eyes examined and the vet told me he had distichiasis (a couple lashes on the inside of his eyelids) Everything else was great. He told me that he will pass certification with no problem but will have a B at the end of the number I assume. He said the condition is no big deal. But the fact that this big latin word is checked off makes me weary. I guess my question is; in your opinions how serious is this? and what about breeding him in the future?


thanks

Talbot

Dogs with several common eye diseases often achieve a CERF number. The biggie, PRA does not show up in dogs until mid life or later. Hence, many (most) PRA afflected dogs have CERF numbers.

Here is an interesting site on some of the common eye diseases. From this site, it sounds like you should take your dog in to have these misplaced lashes surgically removed or risl cornea damage.

common Canine eye diseases

T.Mac

Tom,

Thanks for the advice. From what I gather this should not be a a concern considering breeding but rather just something that I should get taken care of now!

Talbot

Well, at least just have a canine ophthalmologist look at them. I had a dog with distichiasis in both eyes. Never had any surgery done, and never had any problem. If you don't see any symptoms, then surgery is not usually indicated.

Lots of Chessies have distichiasis, probably more than most people realize. Has something to do with the coat type. In the range of canine hereditary problems, my personal belief is that it falls in the "not to worry" category. I'm more concerned with drive, marking ability, trainability, and correct physical soundness to carry it all in. If a dog doesn't have all that, it probably shouldn't be bred, whether it has any hereditary diseases or not.

Lisa

Thanks Lisa.
I have read many of your posts on this site. It is great that you share all your knowledge and opinions so freely... Thanks

Talbot