Introduction
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a name for a group of degenerative eye conditions which eventually lead to permanent blindness. Specifically, these diseases often affect the photoreceptors of the eyes that are crucial to vision.
PRA is not completely understood, but it has been identified as an inherited genetic disease which affects a number of canine breeds. Breeds which are affected early (usually in the first year) in life if they inherit this disease include: the Belgian Sheepdog, the Collie, the Irish Setter, the Miniature Schnauzer, and the Norwegian Elkhound.
Breeds which are affected later in life (usually between 3 – 5 years of age) if they inherit this disease include: the Akita, the American and English Cocker Spaniel, the Labrador, the Longhaired Dachshund, the Samoyed, the Tibetan Terrier, and the Toy and Miniature Poodle.
Symptoms of PRA in Dogs
Symptoms of progressive retinal atrophy include night blindness, opaque or cloudy look to the eye, cataracts, and total loss of vision. Pet owners often notice that their dog’s vision has been affected through symptoms such as bumping into corners of walls, stepping on or tripping over items left on the floor, stumbling upon moved furniture, and pawing at the air when the dog goes down steps.
Diagnosing Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Dogs
PRA is diagnosed through extensive eye examinations. In many cases, veterinarians will refer a specialized veterinarian ophthalmologist to perform these tests and confirm the diagnosis.
Outlook for Dogs with PRA
Progressive retinal atrophy in dogs will eventually result in complete blindness. There is no cure, prevention, or treatment currently available. The good news is that, with small changes in their environment which accommodates their lack of vision, most dogs with PRA go on to live long and healthy lives.