Retinal degenerative diseases include inherited pathologies such as retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and multifactorial diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD, a leading cause of blindness in the Western world, typically causes visual distortion and loss of central vision. In those affected, RP causes early-onset loss of night vision, followed by loss of peripheral vision and ultimately blindness. Due to the need for more effective treatments with the eventual goal of preventing blindness, researchers are investigating new potential targets and technologies to address these diseases. In a preclinical setting, various animal models are available for evaluation of investigational therapies, and investigational drugs and drug delivery methods have shown promise in both preclinical and subsequent clinical trials. Recent efforts include research into the role of inflammation in AMD and RP, and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs in preventing or even reversing retinal damage. The aim of this manuscript is to review past and current works on models for these diseases, the inflammatory processes associated with them, and potential targets for pharmacotherapy as they relate to these progressive retinal dystrophies.