I believe zoey has PRA

[FryFry]

I think zoey might have pra. I read an article on it, and she has all the signs. About 6months ago she started having bad vision at night or in dim light. I honestly didn't think anything of it because I thought she was too young to go blind (she's only 4.5) and I've never heard of PRA. Plus the vet never said anything about her eyes, so I thought Zoey was just a "clumsy" or "slow" dog. I don't know, but I feel bad that it's gone on for this long. At night or in dim light she seems to have a harder time seeing things. For example if you throw her toy she'll have a harder time finding it 90% of the time. Unless she watches you throw it, but even then she'll have a hard time. She usually finds it once she's smelled around a bit for it. And if the cat or other dog jumps up beside her she'll have a little freak out and jump up yapping at them. In the day time she seems to have no problem. I have also notice what looks like a round light in each of her eyes. Zoey goes to the vet on January 21st to see how her Lymes Disease is, and I plan on mentioning to the vet that I suspect Zoey has PRA. I know PRA does eventually cause blindness, and it's usually the owner who has a harder time adjusting then the pet. I feel really bad, and sad for my dog because I do suspect she has PRA. I know she can live a almost "normal" life if she does have PRA and goes blind. If she does happen to have it, is there anything I can do for her? Or do for myself not to feel so sadden by it?

[Marhcarter]

I had no idea what PRA was, but thanks to google, I do now. What you are describing does sound like the article I read. The article also said that new research shows that some antioxidant nutritional support is helping to prevent or slow the loss of vision. Look at
PRA in Dogs - Animal Eye Care
There was some really interesting information that might help Zoey. Good luck and keep us informed how he is doing!

[Maximo]

I'm sorry Zoey might have PRA at such a young age. To the best of my knowledge, there is nothing that can prevent it or stop its progression. Dietary supplements that support eye health, as indicated above, is the most you can do.

I would definitely have your vet examine Zoey's eyes closely to make sure it isn't something else like cataracts.

[tjdmom]

I don't know that there is anything you can do to stop it but I can tell you that dogs primary sense is smell and I wouldn't feel "bad" for her. I belong to a great group that has some experience with training dogs who are blind...I will post a link, maybe you'd be interested in learning about this type of training...

SATZ_Main : Safe_Alternative_Teaching_Zone

[MandiesMom]

I had never heard of PRA so I don't really have any advice. I just wanted to let you know I will keep Zoey in my thoughts and prayers. Let us know what they say on the 21st, ok?

[gemy]

Originally Posted by FryFry

I think zoey might have pra. I read an article on it, and she has all the signs. About 6months ago she started having bad vision at night or in dim light. I honestly didn't think anything of it because I thought she was too young to go blind (she's only 4.5) and I've never heard of PRA. Plus the vet never said anything about her eyes, so I thought Zoey was just a "clumsy" or "slow" dog. I don't know, but I feel bad that it's gone on for this long. At night or in dim light she seems to have a harder time seeing things. For example if you throw her toy she'll have a harder time finding it 90% of the time. Unless she watches you throw it, but even then she'll have a hard time. She usually finds it once she's smelled around a bit for it. And if the cat or other dog jumps up beside her she'll have a little freak out and jump up yapping at them. In the day time she seems to have no problem. I have also notice what looks like a round light in each of her eyes. Zoey goes to the vet on January 21st to see how her Lymes Disease is, and I plan on mentioning to the vet that I suspect Zoey has PRA. I know PRA does eventually cause blindness, and it's usually the owner who has a harder time adjusting then the pet. I feel really bad, and sad for my dog because I do suspect she has PRA. I know she can live a almost "normal" life if she does have PRA and goes blind. If she does happen to have it, is there anything I can do for her? Or do for myself not to feel so sadden by it?

I am sorry to hear that your pup might have PRA. I believe with eye problems seeing a board certified opthamologist is best. Also as this is a genetic condition once diagnosis is confirmed, then her breeder needs to know about this diagnosis.

As far as I am aware nutritional support "might" help and should not hurt.

[Topi Topi]

I wish you strength for both you and your precious little Yorkie. If you need someone to talk to, we are here for you..

[FryFry]

Originally Posted by gemy

I am sorry to hear that your pup might have PRA. I believe with eye problems seeing a board certified opthamologist is best. Also as this is a genetic condition once diagnosis is confirmed, then her breeder needs to know about this diagnosis.

As far as I am aware nutritional support "might" help and should not hurt.

I got Zoey from a Family friend who got her from a breeder, who was going out of the breeding business. I never got papers for zoey so I know nothing about her parents. but it's alright, I'll know whether or not she has a problem in a few weeks.

[ladyjane]

Originally Posted by gemy

I am sorry to hear that your pup might have PRA. I believe with eye problems seeing a board certified opthamologist is best. Also as this is a genetic condition once diagnosis is confirmed, then her breeder needs to know about this diagnosis.

As far as I am aware nutritional support "might" help and should not hurt.

I agree, she should be seen by an opthamologist. It may be PRA or could be something else. It is important to get a correct diagnosis.

One of my fosters who has been with me for some time cannot see due to PRA. His family dumped him and did not bother to tell me that he was having vision problems. It was so sad because he was scared to death. He is fine now and has adjusted very well to my home. I have two older yorkies who cannot see and I am careful when I pick them up and hold them to always put them down in a familiar place such as their bed. I also am careful not to move furniture around because that can confuse them.