PRA Guide

PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) is an inherited eye disease that causes gradual degeneration of the retina, leading to vision loss and eventual blindness. In Siberian Huskies, it typically appears as night blindness first, progressing to total blindness over months or years.

PRA is diagnosed through a veterinary ophthalmologist using an eye exam, including funduscopy to observe retinal changes. Genetic testing can confirm the specific mutation (prcd-PRA) in Siberian Huskies and identify carriers before symptoms appear.

Currently, there is no cure for PRA in dogs, including Siberian Huskies. Treatment focuses on helping the dog adapt to vision loss through environmental modifications, consistent routines, and supportive care.

PRA can be prevented by only breeding dogs that have been genetically tested and are free of the PRA mutation. Responsible breeders screen their Huskies and avoid breeding carriers to eliminate passing the disease to puppies.

With proper care, Huskies with PRA can still enjoy a good quality of life, though they require a safe, predictable environment and may need extra guidance. Blindness does not cause pain, and many dogs adapt well using their other senses.