Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) affects middle aged dogs of many breeds, but Dachshunds, Pugs, Miniature Schnauzers and other dog breeds are commonly affected. Dogs often have additional signs (hunger, thirst, weight gain). The disease has been described for over 2 decades, but veterinary ophthalmologists are still somewhat “in the dark” about this disease.

So, you want to be a veterinary ophthalmologist? Of course you do, it’s the best job on the planet earth! Who wouldn’t want to be a veterinary ophthalmologist? After all, you get to help a variety of animals, their associated owners, practice at the highest level of veterinary medicine, help animals maintain vision, improve their comfort, and you get to perform eye saving procedures and help blind animals see again! So what does it take to get there?

Dr. Jeff Studer, DACVO, tells us about his journey to his current position and how ophthalmology paved the way for him.

Even with the best ophthalmic care, there are several conditions that can to lead to permanent blindness in your pet. If the cause for blindness is limited to the eyes and your pet is otherwise healthy, blind pets can adapt well and lead a rather normal life.

Almost every pure-bred dog, as well as mixes like Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, Puggles, etc. have inherited or breed-related problems. Some of these problems are ocular, like cataracts. Others can be orthopedic, like hip dysplasia, cardiac, or skin diseases.