For the first time ever, a new website–BlindAppaloosas.org–has documented in one location all the available veterinary research showing how Appaloosas are at increased risk for both uveitis and blindness, compared to other breeds. BlindAppaloosas.org was developed by a Montana-based nonprofit, the Rolling Dog Ranch Animal Sanctuary. The ranch specializes in caring for disabled animals, including blind horses. Thirteen blind Appaloosas are among them.
“While the research to date clearly demonstrates the Appaloosa’s greater risk for uveitis and blindness, what we don’t know is why the breed suffers disproportionately from this disability,” says Steve Smith, co-founder of the Rolling Dog Ranch. “That’s why we are calling on the Appaloosa Horse Club, the official breed association, to begin funding research into this problem and taking other steps to address this issue.”
In addition to documenting past and current research studies on the subject, the website offers a detailed discussion by a distinguished equine ophthalmologist of how uveitis in the Appaloosa is a different form of the disease.
sounds great! good luck to them! blind horses are still pretty able, they just need a little more help and understanding. i never thought of a specific breed, especially as common as appy’s, could have some genetic issue causing mre to go blind. i hope they can figure things out soon and help theese horses to adjust to their new lives.
wow. i did not think a specific breed, especially one as common as appy’s, would have a genetic issue causing them to go blind. blind horses are pretty able, they just need a little more help, and a little more understanding. with some effort, theese horses can soon adjust to their new lives. good luck to the horses and researchers!
Our Appaloosa who is 3 yrs. old has just went blind three days ago. Now to ajust and to help Jackson learn his new way. We to must learn a different approach. Thank you for caring.