What are OFA Eye Exams?
At Northwest Animal Eye Specialists, one of the goals of ophthalmologists is to reduce the number of eye problems that arise due to genetic abnormalities.
In an effort to achieve this goal, screening eye examinations are performed on purebred dogs that are being used for breeding purposes.
These are called OFA examinations, which stands for Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Annual examinations are recommended since many of the genetic eye problems acquired may not show up until middle or older age.
Single dogs or litters of puppies can have OFA examinations. These examinations are screening examinations only and are distinct from the examinations performed to evaluate a known eye problem.
The OFA Eye Exam Certification Process
Dogs coming for OFA eye examinations arrive 20 minutes early for paperwork and to allow time for maximal pupillary dilation. Owners and/or breeders of dogs coming for OFA examinations should bring the registration number and microchip number of the dog(s).
This is required on the OFA form and is vital for us to track statistics on individual dog breeds. OFA will not accept forms without registration numbers. They also request a microchip or tattoo number.
Lastly, if you are interested in either an OFA clinic and/or a lecture to your breed club, please contact us for availability.
