SARDS: Problem, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS)

Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome is a condition affecting the light and image detecting cells of the eye (the rods and cones, known as photoreceptors) which are located at the back of the eye, within the retina. The rods and cones are responsible for transmitting electrical information to the brain, which is then translated to a picture or image.

For a reason that is still unclear, in some dogs these photoreceptors suddenly die (apoptose) and dogs become suddenly blind.

Signs of SARDS

In most cases, there are no precursor signs of the condition and your pet will, almost overnight, lose sight completely. In other cases, SARDS can be seen alongside one or more of the following signs:

• Increased thirst
• Increased appetite
• Increased urination
• Weight gain
• Decline of hearing
• Decline of sense of smell

Diagnosis of SARDS

Diagnosis of SARDS requires specialised instrumentation called electroretinogram (ERG) which records the electrical activity of the retina. In addition to the ERG, ancillary tests such as assessing response of the pupil (pupillary light reflex) to high intensity colours (red, blue
and white) are used in our clinic to aid in the diagnosis of the condition.

The electroretinogram can be performed without the need of sedation for pets who are not stressed, aggressive or wriggly. However, some pets will require sedation for an optimal and accurate result.

Treatment of SARDS

Unfortunately, due to the lack of complete understanding of what cases this condition in the first place, treatment providing consistent results is not available.

Prognosis of SARDS

Dogs remain permanently blind but the previously mentioned signs that accompany SARDS tend to improve or resolve. Blind dogs, especially small and medium sized breeds, adapt very well over time and go on to live a full life without problems, as long as you adapt to their changing needs. Further training is required and some of the things you can try is:

• Training your dog with simple words on a day-to-day basis. For example, when approaching a step, you should use the word “step” or when approaching an obstacle use the word “stop” etc.
• Use audio queues, such as a whistle or a bell attached to the lead or your shoes so that your pet can hear you.
• When indoors, you can use audio sources (such as a radio) at the distant parts of a room so that your dog can navigate more confidently knowing their limits
• If you have another pet (dog or cat) you can use a collar with a bell so that they can warm them about their presence or so that they can be followed around using the sound as a guide
• Do not make sudden changes at your house or apartment as this will disorientate them