Crazy Patch’s Spot of Satori inherited one copy of the variant we tested for Progressive Retinal Atrophy, prcd
This variant should not impact Satori’s health. This variant is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that a dog needs two copies of the variant to show signs of this condition. Satori is unlikely to develop this condition due to this variant because she only has one copy of the variant.
Your dog carries this variant and will pass it on to ~50% of her offspring. You can email breeders@embarkvet.com to discuss with a genetic counselor how the genotype results should be applied to a breeding program.
This eye condition causes gradual degeneration of the retina. Affected dogs typically lose night vision first, followed by progressive vision loss over time.
The age affected dogs will first show signs of visual impairment varies by breed. However, most begin showing clinical signs in early adulthood.
Veterinarians use a focused light to examine the pupils. In affected dogs, the pupils will appear more dilated and slower to contract. Your vet may also use a lens to visualize the retina at the back of the eye to look for changes in the optic nerve or blood vessels. You may be referred to a veterinary ophthalmologist for a definitive diagnosis.
Currently, there is no definitive treatment for PRA. Supplements, including antioxidants, have been proposed for management of the disease, but have not been scientifically proven effective.
- Talk to your vet about your dog’s PRA result so you can work together to plan their ongoing care and monitoring.
- Schedule regular eye exams with your vet or a veterinary ophthalmologist to monitor for changes or complications such as cataracts.
- If your dog’s vision changes, help them adjust by keeping furniture and routines consistent, using verbal cues, and keeping them on a leash in unfamiliar areas.
- Products such as protective halos can also help dogs navigate safely if their vision declines.