Understanding the Cost and Importance of PRA Testing in Dogs
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is a group of inherited eye diseases in dogs that cause gradual vision loss due to retinal degeneration. These conditions can affect dogs at various ages and progress at different rates, depending on the genetic mutation and breed involved.
Why Perform PRA Testing?
PRA is a serious yet non-painful disease that inevitably leads to blindness in affected dogs. Since the condition is inherited, identifying carriers and affected dogs is crucial for breed management and disease prevention.
Key reasons for testing include:- Early diagnosis: Enables owners to prepare for and manage their dog’s vision loss effectively.
- Informed breeding decisions: Helps breeders avoid mating two carriers, which would result in affected offspring.
- Genetic counseling: Useful for screening entire breed lines for inheritance risk.
How PRA Is Diagnosed
The diagnosis of PRA usually involves a combination of clinical exams and genetic tests. Veterinary ophthalmologists examine the retina with ophthalmoscopes or conduct electroretinograms (ERGs) to assess function. However, for definitive and early diagnosis, DNA testing is pivotal.
Genetic tests look for known mutations causing PRA within specific breeds. These tests can often identify if a dog is clear, a carrier, or affected—even before symptoms develop.
Cost of PRA Testing
The cost of PRA genetic testing for dogs ranges from $50 to $150. The price may vary based on:
- Whether the test evaluates for a single mutation or a panel of diseases.
- The breed-specificity of the test.
- The laboratory or veterinary service provider conducting the test.
Some popular genetic testing services such as Embark, Wisdom Panel, and university-based labs offer PRA testing either individually or as part of broader breed-specific panels. Bundling multiple tests (e.g., panels that include PRA along with other inherited diseases) may offer better value for multi-disease screening.
What’s Included in the Cost?
- DNA test kit with cheek swab or blood draw options.
- Sample processing in a certified lab.
- Detailed report indicating whether the dog is affected, a carrier, or clear.
- Guidance for breeders and pet owners based on test results.
Are There Any Additional Fees?
If the test is ordered through a veterinary clinic, additional fees may apply for consultation, sample collection (especially if a blood test is used instead of a cheek swab), and interpretation of the results. These fees might add $50 to $100 depending on the clinic.
When Should You Test Your Dog?
- Before breeding: To avoid passing PRA genes to offspring.
- After observing visual symptoms like night blindness or hesitancy in dark environments.
- If the dog’s breed is at high risk for PRA.
Breeds such as Miniature and Toy Poodles, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Border Collies are among those with a higher risk of PRA.
Is Testing Worth It?
Although PRA has no cure, early detection can help extend a dog’s quality of life. Understanding a dog’s genetic status also supports responsible breeding, especially in high-risk breeds where total exclusion of carriers may limit genetic diversity.
Takeaways
- The cost of PRA testing is relatively modest compared to the lifetime benefits of disease management and prevention.
- Veterinary consultation is helpful for clinical interpretation and care planning.
- Genetic testing is a smart preventive measure for owners and breeders alike.
While research continues into gene therapies and more extensive testing panels, current genetic tests provide vital insights for the long-term health of your dog and future generations.
