SUDDEN ACQUIRED RETINAL DEGENERATION SYNDROME (SARD's)

Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) is a retinal disorder of unknown cause that results in an acute onset of permanent blindness in adult dogs. Affected dogs are typically middle aged to older, and all breeds can be affected. There is no evidence to suggest that this disease is hereditary and there is not any known means of preventing the condition.  There is no proven treatment available for this condition.  
The primary complaint is always acute vision loss. Most dogs will go completely blind within four weeks of the noticeable onset of vision loss, and many dogs will have total vision loss within one to two weeks. 
Though many dogs have no clinical signs of illness other than blindness, some dogs will show signs typical for Cushing's disease (increased thirst, increased urination, weight gain), though they usually test negative for Cushing's disease.  These other signs commonly resolve over time.  
An electroretinogram will likely be recommended for your pet in order to evaluate retinal function. This test will confirm or rule-out the diagnosis of SARDS by quantifying how much, if any, retinal function is present. 
Some dogs afflicted with SARDS become very anxious and unpredictable, probably due to the exceptional stress of sudden vision loss. However, most dogs will eventually adjust to their blindness and their other senses seem to become more sensitive over time. It is important to keep the home environment as stable as possible and objects should be kept in consistent locations. Pets should not be left outside unattended unless they are in a confined space such as a yard.

Should you have any questions or concerns please contact us on 03 9545 0103.