What is the OFA?
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is a non-profit organization established to improve
the health and well-being of companion animals by reducing the incidence of genetic diseases.
OFA maintains a comprehensive database of certified health testing results for dogs, which
helps breeders make informed decisions and allows prospective pet owners to verify health clearances.
Common OFA Tests Include:
- Hip Dysplasia: Radiographic evaluation of a dog’s hips to detect structural issues.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Screening for abnormalities in the elbow joint.
- Patellar Luxation: Assessment of the knee to ensure stability.
- Cardiac and Thyroid Evaluations: Testing for healthy heart and thyroid function.
Why OFA Matters:
Reliability: OFA’s evaluations are performed by board-certified veterinary specialists.
Transparency: Results are recorded in a public database, providing accessible proof of a dog’s tested health.
Breed Improvement: By certifying breeding dogs that pass OFA’s tests, responsible breeders help reduce the prevalence of hereditary conditions.
Many responsible breeders use OFA to ensure their breeding programs focus on healthy genetics.
Pet owners also benefit from OFA certification because it gives reassurance that certain hereditary
conditions have been screened out or identified early.
For additional details, visit
www.ofa.org.
