Nothing is scarier than realizing your dog all of a sudden is blind. Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration Syndrome (SARDS) is a scary retinal condition that leads to rapid blindness. This blindness can occur within days, making it an alarming condition. Here’s what you need to know about SARDS in dogs:

What is SARDS in Dogs?

There are quite a few common eye problems in dogs, including retinal damage. Unlike common eye issues, sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) is a rare eye condition, specifically affecting the retina. SARDS can cause quick and irreversible blindness and can develop as early as a few days to a few weeks or months. Sometimes, SARDS seemingly occurs almost overnight, and dogs have lost almost all ability to see.

With an average onset of 8-10 years, SARDS tends to be more common in older dogs and is found slightly more frequently in spayed females. However, while any dog can get SARDS as it is not an inheritable disease, certain breeds like Beagles, Dachshunds, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzers, Pugs, and brachycephalic breeds may be slightly more susceptible to SARDS. While the blindness caused by SARDS is permanent, there is little to no pain, and most dogs learn to live full lives with their owners’ help!

What Causes SARDS in Dogs?

SARDS is an idiopathic disease, which means that the exact cause of the disease is unknown. It is not an inheritable disease, meaning a dog does not get it from a parent. There is some speculation that SARDS is an autoimmune response that causes inflammation of the retina, but it has not been proven.

Studies have also been done to determine if SARDS is a hormonal issue, but again, the research has not shown any proof. Other research seems to suggest that Cushing’s Disease and SARDS may be linked; however, it has also not been proven.

Other factors, like certain toxins, may be present in a dog with SARDS, but there has not been enough conclusive research done to make a scientific connection. More research is needed in order to fully understand and determine the cause of SARDS.

How Common is SARDS in Dogs?

SARDS is a rare retinal condition. It is fair to say that it is rare and uncommon. It does seem to affect older, spayed female dogs more often, but consistent statistical significance between males and females has not yet been able to be established.

It is important to note that SARDS in dogs is rare. There are only approximately 400 cases of SARDS in dogs in the United States annually. This is only about 0.1-0.2% of the general population of dogs.

How is SARDS Diagnosed in Dogs?

Getting a diagnosis of SARDS will require seeing a veterinarian who will make a tentative diagnosis based on symptoms and your dog’s medical history. They will check your dog’s reflexes and perform an eye exam. Your vet will check your dog’s intraocular pressure to rule out glaucoma.

Confirming SARDS will require an appointment with a veterinary ophthalmologist. A test called an electroretinogram (ERG) shows how the retina responds to light. If a dog has SARDS, the retina will not respond to light, and the electroretinogram will show a flat line.

If a dog has a normal response despite being blind, your veterinarian will most likely recommend an MRI or CT scan, or both. These tests can help diagnose other causes of blindness, like inflammation of the optic nerve or a brain tumor.

This is just an overview of SARDS in dogs. While the exact cause is still unknown, many dogs can live happy lives when symptoms are managed. If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to reach out to your veterinarian.