Our hospital offers OFA x-rays for identification of hip and/or elbow dysplasia in dogs. OFA is the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and is an organization that was created to aid breeders in helping reduce the incidence of hereditary health issues. Dogs must be over 2 years of age and the x-rays must be taken using heavy sedation for patient comfort and accurate positioning.
X-rays can be taken by any veterinarian (no special certification required) and then are submitted to the OFA to be evaluated by a radiologist for hip/elbow congruity, subluxation, as well as the size, shape, and architecture of the bones forming the hip/elbow joints. Three different radiologists review the x-rays and a score is given based on the dog's conformation relative to other dogs of the same age and breed.
OFA categories are graded as normal (excellent, good, fair), borderline dysplastic, or dysplastic (mild, moderate, or severe). Dogs scored as borderline or dysplastic are not eligible to receive OFA breeding status. Please ask our staff if you have any questions about the OFA technique.
