OFA Radiographs and 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 an ophthalmologist (eye screenings) or cardiologist (heart screenings)- for these tests, please seek out the appropriate specialist.

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.

  1. 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.
  2. Bring your dog’s AKC registration and completed OFA forms to your appointment.
  3. 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.
  4. We submit the radiographs and forms electronically to OFA.
  5. 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

Thank you for making the effort to breed healthier dogs!

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