Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration (SARDS)
What is SARDS?
SARDS is a disease in dogs where rapid degeneration of the retina leads to complete blindness. On initial exam, the retina may appear normal due to how quickly the changes have occurred. It can take several months for the retina to begin to show evidence of degeneration upon examination. The disease is usually seen in middle-age to older dogs, more commonly females over males, and can also be overweight. SARDS may occur in any breed including mixed breed dogs; however, dachshunds and schnauzers appear to be overrepresented. The disease is sometimes associated with an increase in thirst, urination, and weight gain. Further evaluation with your veterinarian or an internal medicine specialist is recommended if any of these systemic changes are noted.
What Causes SARDS?
The cause of SARDS is currently unknown. Inheritance is also unknown at this time, although there has not been any direct links. Much research is being done do determine more about this disease.
How is it Diagnosed?
Since the retina appears normal on initial evaluation, an ERG or Electroretinogram is essential to distinguish SARDS from other causes of blindness. These diseases can include central nervous system disorders of the optic nerve or the brain. An electroretinogram is an electrical function test of the retina. If a dog has SARDS, no retinal activity will be seen on the ERG. If the retinal activity is normal, then the reason for vision loss is more consistent with central nervous system changes. In such cases, additional diagnostic testing and/or consultation with a neurologist may be recommended to determine the cause of the blindness.
What is the Treatment and What are the Expectations?
This is a non-painful condition that causes permanent blindness. Currently, there is no proven treatment. Occasionally medications can be tried, with limited success and can be discussed with your ophthalmologist. Because pets with SARDS have rapid vision loss, adjustment to their home environment can take time. Dogs’ strong sense of smell, memory, and hearing are important during their adaptive period, but most adjust well to being blind.
Helpful Information:
Caring for Your Blind Pet
www.blinddogs.com
Training Methods for Blind Dogs (Carol Levin, RN)