Blind Dog Rescue Alliance
Blind Dogs See With Their Hearts!
There are many eye disorders that affect our dogs. Some of the more common ones are listed here.
We are not veterinarians, and  are offering an overview only, not as a diagnostic tool. Please see your veterinarian if you suspect any of these or other eye disorders in your dog. This website does not substitute for a veterinarian examination.

Cataracts
Cataracts affect the lens of the eye, causing a film to form. In early stages, it often affects sight very little, and is usually more treatable. As cataracts mature, they cause worsened vision. Often confused with cataracts is a condition called nuclear sclerosis. This is a hardening and greying of the lens in older dogs. This is not a cataract, and does not affect vision. Cataracts can be treated surgically, and often restore sight, especially in early stages. However, not all dogs regain sight from cataracts. If you suspect your dog has cataracts, please see your veterinarian.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an increased pressure in the eyes. Fluid within the eye builds up and does not drain properly. Glaucoma causes blindness by damaging the optic nerve and by decreasing blood flow to the retina. This increased pressure can cause pain Glaucoma can be treated by eyedrops or surgically. The type of surgery depends on whether the dog will be able to retain any vision. Unfortunately, often the dog is already blind in the affected eye by the time the glaucoma is detected. Often the other eye is at risk for developing glaucoma, so vets may prescribe eyedrops to delay this from happening.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
PRA is an inherited disease of the retina, which is a tissue that surrounds the inside of the eyeball and works much like film in a camera. Often the first symptom is their dog becoming "night blind", or having difficulty seeing in low light. Over time, the pupils become dilated, and owners may notice a glow from the dog's eyes. The rate of progression varies from dog to dog, but blindness does come eventually. However, PRA is painless.

Suddenly Acquired Retinal Degeneration
SARDS is a disease of the retina that causes blindness quickly, within a matter of days to weeks. Owners of dogs who develop SARDS may report noticing an increase in thirst and urination and weight gain in their dog. SARDS may also be associated with Cushing's disease, which is the production of excess hormones from the pituitary gland that can cause a host of symptoms in dogs.
SARDS is not painful.