PRA diagnosis costs $200-$500, and there is no treatment or cure. Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited eye disease that gradually destroys the retina, leading to complete blindness. It's painless and dogs adapt remarkably well, but there's nothing veterinary medicine can do to stop or reverse it once it begins.
PRA is an inherited eye disease where photoreceptor cells deteriorate over time. Rod cells (night vision) are affected first, then cone cells (day vision). Caused by genetic mutations from parent dogs. Affects dozens of breeds with different variants
Night blindness is the first sign - bumping into things in dim light, avoiding dark rooms and stairs. Eyes may develop reflective shine or dilated pupils. Gradual loss of daytime vision. Cataracts often develop secondary to PRA. Progression is slow and painless
Veterinary ophthalmologist exam ($150-$300) examines the retina for characteristic changes. Electroretinography (ERG, $200-$400) measures retinal function and detects PRA before clinical signs. DNA testing ($50-$200) identifies carriers and affected dogs. Average $200-$500
No treatment, medication, or surgery can stop or reverse PRA. Antioxidant supplements ($20-$50/month) may theoretically slow progression, but evidence is limited. Management focuses on helping your dog adapt - keeping furniture in place, using verbal cues, maintaining routines. Management costs $200-$500
Primarily diagnosis costs. Ongoing expenses are minimal since there's no treatment. $200-$500 for diagnosis and initial management.
Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Schnauzers, and Irish Setters are commonly affected. DNA testing before breeding is essential for at-risk breeds.
Progression varies by PRA type. Some forms cause blindness within months; others take 1-3 years. Most dogs are fully blind by middle age.
DNA testing of breeding dogs is the only prevention. Responsible breeders test for PRA before breeding. Ask for genetic test results when buying a puppy.
02/04
Primarily diagnosis costs.
PRA is genetic/hereditary. Many policies cover hereditary conditions; some exclude them. Check your policy's stance on hereditary and congenital conditions before enrolling. Policies covering hereditary conditions typically cover diagnosis.
Any vision problems before enrollment classify PRA as pre-existing and excluded. Since PRA develops gradually, early enrollment is critical. DNA test results showing carrier status may also affect coverage.
Since PRA has no treatment, insurance payout is limited to diagnostic costs ($200-$500). Real value comes from covering secondary conditions like cataracts that develop alongside PRA.
Some insurers charge higher premiums or add exclusions for breeds with high PRA rates. Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniels face closer scrutiny. Disclose breed info honestly - false claims void policies.
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