Fading To Black With Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Our latest addition, the rescue Chihuahua dog I have been trying to get certified for elderly therapy groups has a new health issue that is going to put both of us to the test. The vet has diagnosed her with progressive retinal atrophy, which will eventually result in her becoming totally blind.

The condition is advanced enough that there is nothing that can be done for her. Of course, there were no warning symptoms that I could have seen. The result of all of this is that she will be an extremely hard adoption placement now. Perhaps Mike and I can just adopt her.
We will be exploring our routines to incorporate ways of making them more blinddog friendly. At least the condition, at least according to the vet, isn't causing her any physical discomfort. I'm sure the mental and social stuff she is going through is quite painful all on its own.
Apparently it is most common in Chihuahua dogs that are between four and six years of age. This little darlin' is about 56 years as best as we can tell. Due to her rescue background, there are so many variables I am unsure of. Regardless, she can still lead a normal life and we will do our best to make that happen.