@charlie_theblackshepherd: SARDS - sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome. Our life has changed forever over these past few weeks, we now unexpectedly have a fully blind dog. We don’t know why this condition happens, in most cases it’s idiopathic in nature, and there is no cure. Luckily this condition is not painful and Charlie can live an otherwise happy long life 🖤 I’ve come to accept that grief and gratitude can exist in the same place - I grieve the loss of his vision and that this had to happen to him, but I’m also eternally grateful that he will be ok. Sometimes I wonder if this happened to him because the universe knows this won’t stop us, and that we will always lean in with everything we’ve got to support him. For those of you who aren’t aware of what’s going on: within the span of 2 weeks our Charlie went totally blind. We have done an extensive work-up on him including the following tests: - numerous very comprehensive ocular exam and tests with his ophthalmologist - phone consult with internal medicine - comprehensive bloodwork - comprehensive urinalysis - Snap 4Dx test twice to screen for tick borne disease exposure - Toxoplasma titers - Neospora antibody test - a comprehensive neurological exam by a neurologist - an MRI - a spinal tap with cerebrospinal fluid analysis - an electroretinogram - chromatic pupillary light reflex testing Every test came up normal, except for his electroretinogram and chromatic PLRs. This is highly suggestive of his retinas failing. With the sudden onset and his otherwise normal ocular exams and tests, this is very likely SARDS. We are so lucky to have the most amazing team at our local referral center, their level of care has been exemplary. Through our connections on social media I’ve also been able to discuss Charlie’s case with 4 more veterinary ophthalmologists, including a world renowned retinal specialist. I know from a medical standpoint we’ve gone above and beyond to get answers for him - now it’s time to adjust and move forward with motivation and optimism! Follow along as we navigate this new way of life, and adjust to life with our blind dog 🖤 #blinddog #doghealth #germanshepherd #motivation #journey

Charlie & Moose

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Region: CA

Saturday 07 March 2026 15:03:26 GMT