Definition of Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), also known as progressive rod and cone degeneration (PRCD), refers to a group of degenerative eye disorders that eventually lead to permanent blindness in both eyes. The retina is a delicate, thin membrane lining the back of the eyes. It is responsible for absorbing and reflecting light. When the retina is damaged or diseased, it loses its ability to perceive light. PRA targets the retinal photoreceptors, which are crucial to vision.

Causes of Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Dogs

The cause of PRA is not completely understood. It has been identified as an inherited, autosomal recessive genetic disorder that affects more than 80 domestic canine breeds. It was first discovered in the Gordon Setter.

Prevention of Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Any dog intended to be used for breeding should be examined by a board-certified veterinary ophthamalogist and screened for the presence of inherited eye diseases. Most veterinary eye specialists are affiliated with the Canine Eye Registry Foundation, or CERF. Only dogs free from progressive retinal atrophy and at a low risk of being a carrier of the PRA gene should be bred. Carriers are those dogs that do not themselves have PRA, but do have affected dogs in their ancestry. There are several commercially available genetic tests that can identify dogs that are normal, carriers of or affected by PRA at an early age.

Special Notes

Retinal degeneration, without more, is not painful. Most dogs adjust unusually well to progressive loss of vision.