PRA diagnosis costs $200-$500, and there is no treatment or cure. Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited eye disease that gradually destroys the retina, leading to complete blindness. It's painless and dogs adapt remarkably well, but there's nothing veterinary medicine can do to stop or reverse it once it begins.
PRA is a group of inherited degenerative eye diseases that cause the photoreceptor cells in the retina to deteriorate over time. The rod cells (night vision) are affected first, followed by cone cells (day vision). It's caused by genetic mutations passed from parent dogs. Affects dozens of breeds with different genetic variants
Night blindness is usually the first sign — bumping into things in dim light. Reluctance to go into dark rooms or navigate stairs at night. Eyes may develop a reflective shine or dilated pupils. Gradual loss of daytime vision. Cataracts often develop secondary to PRA. Progression is slow and painless
Veterinary ophthalmologist exam ($150-$300) using an ophthalmoscope to examine the retina for characteristic changes. Electroretinography (ERG) ($200-$400) measures retinal function and can detect PRA before clinical signs appear. DNA testing ($50-$200) identifies carriers and affected dogs. Average $200-$500
There is no treatment, medication, or surgery that can stop or reverse PRA. Antioxidant supplements ($20-$50/month) may theoretically slow progression but evidence is limited. Management focuses on helping your dog adapt to vision loss — keeping furniture in place, using verbal cues, and maintaining routines. Management costs $200-$500
Primarily diagnosis costs. Ongoing expenses are minimal since there's no treatment. $200-$500 for diagnosis and initial management.
Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Schnauzers, and Irish Setters are commonly affected. DNA testing before breeding is essential for at-risk breeds.
Progression varies by PRA type. Some forms cause blindness within months; others take 1-3 years. Most dogs are fully blind by middle age.
DNA testing of breeding dogs is the only prevention. Responsible breeders test for PRA before breeding. Ask for genetic test results when buying a puppy.
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Primarily diagnosis costs.
PRA is a genetic/hereditary condition. Many policies cover hereditary conditions, but some specifically exclude them. Check your policy's stance on hereditary and congenital conditions before enrolling. Policies that cover hereditary conditions will typically cover diagnosis.
If your dog shows any signs of vision problems before enrollment, PRA will be classified as pre-existing and excluded. Since PRA develops gradually, early enrollment is critical. DNA test results showing carrier status may also affect coverage with some insurers.
Since PRA has no treatment, the insurance payout is limited to diagnostic costs ($200-$500). This makes PRA one of the lower-value conditions for insurance claims. The real insurance value comes from covering secondary conditions like cataracts that may develop alongside PRA.
Some insurers may charge higher premiums or add exclusions for breeds with known high PRA rates. Labrador Retrievers and Cocker Spaniels may face closer scrutiny. Always disclose breed information honestly — false claims can void your policy entirely.
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Insurance GuideBreeds Most Affected by Progressive Retinal Atrophy
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