Eye Problems
The most common hereditary eye problem in Anatolians appears to be entropian. This is a painful condition where the lower eyelid inverts, and irritates they eye, often with irreversible damage to the eye. Ectropian is less common, but just as damaging as entropian, this is where the eyelid is loose, and turns outwards. In the USA, the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF) will certify eyes for one year if an examination is performed by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist. In the UK the KC/BVA also run a scheme where they eyes can be tested, the scheme is primarily concerned with the examination of the eye. The lids, lacrimal apparatus and the orbit are referred to as the adnexa, and although any problems with the adnexa will be picked up during testing, the certification itself is for the actual eye, and inherited diseases related to it. It is recommended that eye testing be carried out annually, and the certification is valid for one year only. There are varying guidelines as to when to have the dog tested, and certain diseases must be tested for before a certain age. Luckily, in our breed, we are unaware of any retinal or corneal problems, however, in the U.K, there are less than five dogs tested, although there are far more in the USA, and eye testing is a routine procedure breeders seem to take. Again, as with elbows, breeders in the U.K should be encouraged to take part in these schemes, and hopefully, in the future, more owners and breeders will participate for the welfare of our breed.
