OFA Testing
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals is a database of radiographs (x-rays) and genetic tests that dog breeders use to try to produce the healthiest possible puppies. We offer OFA orthopedic and dentition exams, hip and elbow radiographs, and can collect blood for any tests that require it for sample submission. We cannot perform OFA screenings that require a cardiologist (heart screenings)- for this test, please seek out the appropriate specialist.
OFA Radiographs
We sedate patients using propofol to obtain diagnostic quality radiographs for OFA hip and elbow studies. This is to ensure that the procedure is both less stressful for your dog, and to ensure that we have the best possible images to evaluate your dog’s hips and elbows for breeding purposes. Please fast your dog prior to scheduled OFA radiographs- they can have dinner the night before, but no food or water in the morning.
Once you have scheduled an OFA appointment with our office, there are a few things you need to do at home before your appointment.
- Visit https://www.ofa.org/application-forms and fill out the forms needed for the tests you are doing. You may submit them online but print out the finished copies and bring the copies to the appointment. You should pay OFA directly for test fees- our charges are for the images and any medications, sedation etc. only.
- Bring your dog’s AKC registration and completed OFA forms to your appointment.
- After the radiographs are done, the forms are signed by the owner of the dog and the attending veterinarian. Please make sure the owner of record of the dog has signed or is available to sign the forms.
- We submit the radiographs and forms electronically to OFA.
- If you want your OFA results listed on your dog’s pedigree, they must be AKC registered AND be microchipped.
Checklist:
- No food or water the morning of radiographs
- Completed forms for all tests being performed (i.e. hips and elbows, etc.)
- Your dog’s AKC registration papers
- Your dog’s microchip number
OFA Eye Screenings
What is a CAER exam?
Information provided by the OFA website:
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OFA Eye Certification examinations are screening exams that can only be performed by board certified veterinary ophthalmologists (a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmology – ACVO).
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The purpose of the OFA Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER) is to provide breeders with information regarding canine eye diseases so that they may make informed breeding decisions to produce healthier dogs.
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The exam is performed 30 to 40 minutes after pupil-dilating drops are placed in the eyes. The Eye Certification exam consists of indirect ophthalmoscopy and slit lamp biomicroscopy. It is not a comprehensive ocular health examination, but rather an eye screening exam.
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After the painless examination of the dog’s eyes, the board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist will complete the OFA Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER) form and indicate any specific disease(s) found.
How do I schedule a CAER exam?
We host bi-annual OFA Eye Clinics at our practice with board certified veterinary ophthalmologist, Dr. Corbett.
To stay up to date on announcements for our upcoming eye clinics, give us a follow on Facebook and Instagram. You can also visit the OFA website and head to their Health Clinics page where our registered eye clinic dates are posted on their calendar.
- Our eye clinics are by appointment only. We have a limited number of spots available, so make sure to book in advance!
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You do not need to be a pre-existing client to book an appointment with us for our eye clinics.
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To reserve your appointment, please give our office a call and request either Misty or Michelle C.
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A non-refundable payment of $55 is required per pet. This will be collected prior to your scheduled appointment.
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Once your appointment is scheduled, we will direct you to the OFA Online portal to complete an application form. This is where you will receive your CAER exam results once completed by our ophthalmologist.
Thank you for making the effort to breed healthier dogs!