Progressive Retinal Atrophy In Dogs
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
UPDATED: Dec 19, 2023
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We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.
UPDATED: Dec 19, 2023
Pet Insurance U receives compensation from the third parties included on this site. This includes payment for clicks from our site to insurance providers’ sites and quote requests generated. Our rankings and reviews are not affected by payments from the insurance companies. The compensation we receive allows the site to be free and regularly updated. Our goal is to review every pet insurance provider, but not all companies are listed on the site.
And many of the companies we review do not pay us anything. We simply rate, compare and review their plan because we feel it will be valuable to you. Our reviews are guaranteed to be unbiased, professional and advertising compensation does not influence rankings.
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Cost of Treatment: $166.00 to $2000.00
What Is Progressive Retinal Atrophy In Dogs?
The retina is the tissue that lines the inner surface of the eye; it forms and transmits images to the brain. In retinal degeneration, the cells of the retina begin to lose their function, which leads to impaired vision or blindness.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of disease that worsens over time and is seen especially in Collies, Irish Setters, Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Briards, Labrador Retrievers, Labradoodles, Mastiffs, Samoyeds, and Siberian Huskies.
PRA occurs when the cells of a dog’s retinas degenerate. A gene mutation is responsible for the problem. It is, therefore, imperative to know the breeding history before acquiring a puppy, in order to ensure that none of its ancestors has gone blind.
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Symptoms of Progressive Retinal Atrophy In Dogs
- Dilated pupils
- Inability to see clearly in bright light
- Night blindness or complete blindness
- Sudden blindness
- Signs of liver disease
- Obesity may be observed
- The pupil has abnormal reactions to light
- Cataracts may be observed
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Causes of Progressive Retinal Atrophy In Dogs
- Abnormal retinal structure at birth
- Abnormal development of the retina with age
- Adverse Reactions to a specific drug
- Cancer from other parts of the body that has spread to the retina
- Deficiency of Vitamin A or E
- Idiopathic (unknown cause)
- Infections of the retina or infections that spread from other parts of the body
- Insufficient or excess amounts of certain enzymes
- Long-term glaucoma
- Separation of the retina due to trauma
- Acquired retinal degeneration syndrome
- Intoxications
Treatment of Progressive Retinal Atrophy In Dogs
There is no effective cure for retinal degeneration in dogs, however, some nutritional supplements and diet changes may be beneficial. Surgery is not indicated if your dog’s eyes are blind and non-painful. There are currently no medications available that can reverse retinal degeneration. in dogs.
Return to the Dog Health Problems glossary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) in dogs?
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the cells in a dog’s retina, leading to impaired vision or blindness. It is commonly seen in breeds like Collies, Irish Setters, Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, and others.
What are the symptoms of Progressive Retinal Atrophy in dogs?
Symptoms include impaired vision, night blindness, reluctance to go into dark areas, increased clumsiness, and, eventually, total blindness.
What causes Progressive Retinal Atrophy in dogs?
Progressive Retinal Atrophy is caused by a gene mutation, and it’s important to be aware of the breeding history before acquiring a puppy to ensure that none of its ancestors has experienced blindness.
Is there a cure for Progressive Retinal Atrophy in dogs?
There is no effective cure for retinal degeneration in dogs. While surgery is not indicated for blind and non-painful eyes, some nutritional supplements and diet changes may be beneficial. Unfortunately, there are no medications available to reverse retinal degeneration.
How much does the treatment of Progressive Retinal Atrophy cost?
The cost of treatment for Progressive Retinal Atrophy can range from $166.00 to $2000.00, but it’s important to note that effective cure is not currently available.
Are there specific breeds more prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy?
Yes, breeds such as Collies, Irish Setters, Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, Labradoodles, Mastiffs, Samoyeds, and Siberian Huskies are more prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
How can I identify symptoms of Progressive Retinal Atrophy in my dog?
Look for signs such as impaired vision, night blindness, increased clumsiness, and reluctance to go into dark areas.
Can pet insurance cover the treatment costs for Progressive Retinal Atrophy?
Pet insurance can help cover some of the veterinary costs associated with Progressive Retinal Atrophy treatment, but it’s important to check your policy for coverage details.
Is there any way to prevent Progressive Retinal Atrophy in dogs?
While there is no guaranteed prevention, knowing the breeding history and choosing a responsible breeder can reduce the risk of acquiring a puppy with a predisposition to Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
Can a dog with Progressive Retinal Atrophy lead a normal life?
Dogs with Progressive Retinal Atrophy can adapt to their condition, but they may require special care and consideration. Providing a safe and familiar environment is essential.
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Dr. Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr Pippa Elliott BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in companion animal practice. In 1987 she graduated from the University of Glasgow, with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She works at Blythwood Vets and the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). Pippa is an advocate of Fear-Free Practice, an animal addict, and a veterinary writer. She is also w...
Veterinarian
We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about pet insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything pet insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by pet insurance experts.