Retinal atrophy affects the retina, killing off the vessels and/or pigment cells. It can be generalized as in dwarf and miniature poodles (around three to five years old) and cocker spaniels (one to three years old), or it can be centralized, which mostly occurs in working dogs (Labrador, shepherds, Briard shepherds) from a couple months old to two years.
- Primary symptoms: in generalized atrophy the first sign is deterioration of night and twilight vision. In later stages, mydriasis occurs (pupil remains dilated) along with extremely weak photopic adaptation (the pupil does not contract in bright light), progressing to complete blindness. In some cases, cataracts may develop simultaneously at the beginning. Central progressive retinal atrophy is characterized by good peripheral vision and poor vision of close objects.
- Steps to take: consult a veterinarian, who, after confirming the symptoms, will prescribe either a vascular or circulatory treatment.
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