PRA Diagnosis for my shipoo

After taking my shipoo to the specialist, she was diagnosed with PRA. She is just a year old (2/14/05) but the vet stated that it had probably been going on for quite some time. Has anyone had a similar experience that could offer any advice. My heart completely broke when he told me the diagnosis. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

I'm not sure how much information the vet gave you, but PRA is an inherited disorder, present from birth. You should contact the breeder, because both parents are probably carriers, and should not be used for further breeding. They should also contact any puppy buyers and inform them of the problem so they can A: have their puppies checked, and B: not breed their dogs.

PRA is characterized by progressive degenration of the visual elements of the retina. Studies, at least for some breeds, indicate that following birth the retina develops normally for 18-21 days, then spontaneous degenration of the rods begins. Degeneration progresses affecting both rods and cones, until the final stage of degeneration occurs, with complete disorganizaion of the retinal layers, resulting in blindness. Examination of the eyes, when PRA is present, reveals dilated pupils with poor and slow pupillary light reflex.

Early on, night vision is gradually lost, and day vision remains normal, although some loss of peripheral vision may be present, resulting in 'tunnel vision' i.e. the dog sees only objects directly in front of it. In the next state, the dog has complete night blindness with day vision deteriorating. In the thrid stage, the dog is completely blind, and secondary cataracts may develop in some breeds.

I know you're feeling completely devestated right now. But with a little caution on your part, your dog can adjust well to being blind, and can have a full, happy life in spite of the handicap. Stairs will be a hazard you must address soon, and rearranging furniture will cause her some confusion. It's going to be a learning process for both of you, but you can do this.