Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS) – Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome, known as SARDS, is a perplexing and heartbreaking condition that happens in dogs that results in sudden bilateral (affecting both eyes) and permanent blindness without pain. For various pet owners, the quick onset of blindness is shocking, and we are often faced with asking, How did this happen? Apart from our advancements in research, we still do not have an explanation for the cause of SARDS, causing an already difficult condition for both veterinarians and pet parents.
What is SARDS?
SARDS is a retinal condition that happens suddenly with progresses quickly. This condition mainly affects middle-aged and older dogs, resulting in the total loss of function of photoreceptors (the cells that react to light) in the retina. Once retinal degeneration of photoreceptors occurs, the loss of vision is permanent. Another unique characteristic of SARDS is that the retina itself often appears normal, particularly upon first examination, as it can take a few weeks to months for the dog to lose vision after diagnosis.
The clinical sequela of SARDS is such that the dog often goes blind anywhere between days to weeks from the onset of the condition, which differentiates SARDS from other retinal diseases that have a slower progression.
Who Is Affected?
SARDS can happen in any dog, even though some breeds may be more susceptible. Some breeds that are often reported with this condition include Dachshund, Miniature Schnauzers, Beagle, Pug, Cocker Spaniel, Mixed breed. Even though there has been a considerable amount of research done, there has been no definitive genetic correlation established.
Signs or Clinical Signs
The main sign of SARDS is sudden blindness, but it is often accompanied by many other signs that are similar to endocrine disease, like Cushing’s disease. Signs that dogs with SARDS may show include –
- Bumping into objects
- Not wanting to map in unfamiliar areas
- Dilated pupils unresponsive to light
- Increased appetite and thirst
- Weight Gain
- Increased urination
- Lethargy
Often dogs with SARDS will show signs before being fully blind, and these signs may persist even after the dog has become blind.
Diagnosing SARDS
Diagnosis can be hard with SARDS because of the fast onset of clinical signs SARDS diseases and because the retina can look normal in the initial stages. If the dog presented to your clinic prematurely, a general veterinary examination may not even indicate if SARDS may be the clinical issue. Diagnosing SARDs commonly includes a multi-faceted approach –
Electroretinography (ERG) – A procedure used to assess retinal function. With SARDS, the dog will generally not have any response during ERG, confirming the complete loss of photoreceptor response.
Ophthalmic Exam – A veterinary ophthalmologist may not see gross damage to the retina initially; however, as the disease progresses, you will eventually see retinal atrophy.
Blood Tests and Urinalysis – Blood and urinalysis are used to rule out other clinical conditions like diabetes or Cushing’s disease that may have some overlapping clinical signs with SARDS.
It is always best to refer the case to a veterinary ophthalmologist if SARDS is suspected due to the diagnostic tools that will aid in confirming or ruling out SARDS.
What Causes SARDS?
The cause of SARDS is still undetermined, adding to the frustration of managing the disease. There are also many theories, including –
Autoimmune response – This is the possibility that the body is mistakenly attacking its retinal cells.
Hormonal imbalance – There is much overlap with symptoms of endocrine disorders, so this is a strong consideration.
Toxin exposure – While there is no solid link, some researchers suspect environmental triggers cause SARDS.
Genetic predisposition – Certain breeds are more prone to developing SARDS, but no genetic marker has been identified.
Even with these hypotheses, no definite cause has been established, and multiple factors are likely associated with the onset of SARDS.
Is There a Cure or Treatment?
Sadly, there isn’t a cure for SARDS. The damage done to the retinal tissue is both permanent and irreversible. Over the years, various therapeutic alternatives have been tried, including immunosuppressive therapy, hormone-modulating drugs, and nutritional supplements, but none have shown consistent efficacy. Supportive care is the treatment of choice. This means dealing with any systemic issues, such as increased appetite or thirst, and assisting the dog in adjusting to blindness.
Can Blind Dogs Live Happy Lives?
Yes, undoubtedly. Dogs are incredibly resilient and adapt remarkably well to being blind within a supportive environment. Here are some tips to help your dog adjust to blindness –
- Keep all of the furniture and the surroundings the same – Dogs have good memories and use their spatial awareness a lot. Don’t rearrange furniture.
- Use sound and scent cues – Toys that squeak or have a scent can help blind dogs with play and navigation. Train with verbal cues. Increase the everyday use of words like step, stop, or wait.
- Establish a safe zone – Include a quiet and clutter-free zone for resting.
- Keep them on a leash – When walking, keep them near to help them avoid accidentally running into something.
With time, many dogs will return to their playful and affectionate lives—the only difference being they may rely more on their other senses.
Conclusion
Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome is a major life-altering diagnosis for both the canine patient and for those individuals that care for the dog. Though we do not have information about the causation and possible cure, our focus becomes thinking about how to adapt and enhance the quality of future canine life. Don’t despair. You can ensure that your dog can continue to flourish without sight by simply being educated about this diagnosis and supporting your dog through this event.
Think about both the emotional and physical support that will be necessary to support your dog’s quality of life. If you observe any sudden signs of blindness in your dog, see a veterinarian right away. Early diagnosis will help you and your dog find ways to adjust their quality of life; remember that there is no cure, but you cannot be prepared to thoughtfully adapt to your dog’s adjustments and challenges for the dog’s comfort.
FAQs
Is there any way to prevent SARDS?
No, there is a lack of understanding of the cause and, therefore, a lack of understanding of how to prevent SARDS.
How fast will my dog’s vision be impaired with SARDS?
Vision loss will likely occur very quickly. It may occur in a matter of a few days or, at most, a couple of weeks. Some owners indicate their dog went blind overnight. Although the dog loses their vision suddenly, retinal degeneration and vision impairment are not painful.
Is SARDS painful for my dog?
No, SARDS is not painful. Even though the dog is quickly losing vision, the retinal degeneration itself does not cause the dog pain.
Will my dog continue to enjoy life if they have SARDS?
Yes, many dogs role and adapt to their blindness and enjoy full lives with their families. Patience and some environmental changes will enable dogs to play, go for walks, and enjoy their families’ bond with them despite their blindness.
