OFA and PennHIP

Advanced Screening for Hip Health in Pets

When it comes to ensuring the long-term health and comfort of your pet, particularly regarding joint and bone health, early detection is key. Two of the most prominent methods for evaluating hip health in dogs are OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) and PennHIP (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program). Both are recognized as vital tools in identifying hip dysplasia, a common hereditary condition that can lead to arthritis, pain, and reduced mobility in dogs.

Benefits of Early Detection and Certification

Identifying hip dysplasia risk early offers numerous benefits:

• Preventive Measures: Lifestyle adjustments, weight management, and physical therapy can slow disease progression.  
• Informed Breeding Decisions: Reduces the prevalence of hip dysplasia in future generations.  
• Improved Quality of Life: Early interventions can minimize pain and improve mobility in affected dogs. 

What Is OFA? 

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) was established in 1966 with the mission to reduce the prevalence of inherited orthopedic and genetic diseases in animals. OFA certification for hips evaluates the structure and integrity of a dog’s hip joints to detect conditions like hip dysplasia. 

How Does OFA Testing Work?

• Radiographic Evaluation: X-rays of the dog’s hips are taken under sedation or anesthesia. 
• Submission to OFA: The X-rays are reviewed by a panel of three board-certified radiologists who assign a rating: Excellent, Good, Fair, Borderline, Mild, Moderate, or Severe.
• Certification: Dogs with passing grades (Excellent, Good, or Fair) receive an OFA certification.

When to Test?

Dogs must be at least 24 months old for a final OFA evaluation, as hip structure continues to develop until adulthood. However, preliminary evaluations can be performed as early as 4 months.

What Is PennHIP?

The PennHIP method, developed at the University of Pennsylvania, is a specialized diagnostic system for detecting hip laxity—a primary indicator of hip dysplasia. PennHIP emphasizes early detection, allowing veterinarians to identify at-risk dogs before symptoms or structural changes occur.

How Does PennHIP Work?

• Radiographic Evaluation: Three X-ray views are taken:
• Distraction View: Measures hip laxity by assessing how far the femoral head can be displaced from the hip socket. 
• Compression View: Shows the congruence of the hip joint.
• Standard View: Provides a baseline for comparison.
• Distraction Index (DI): A numeric value between 0 and 1 quantifies hip laxity. Lower values indicate tighter, healthier hips.
• Certification: The results are submitted to the PennHIP analysis center for evaluation and inclusion in their database.

When to Test?

PennHIP evaluations can be performed as early as 16 weeks of age, offering breeders and owners critical information during a puppy’s developmental stages.

Which Is Right for Your Dog?

Choosing the right one depends on your goals:

• Breeders: PennHIP is ideal for early screening, allowing informed breeding decisions before puppies are sold. OFA certification is often preferred for final evaluations, as it is widely recognized by breed registries. 
• Pet Owners: If you’re concerned about hip health in a young puppy, PennHIP provides early insights. For adult dogs, OFA certification helps gauge long-term hip stability. 

At Pet Wellness Clinics, we offer both OFA and PennHIP evaluations to support your dog’s hip health. Whether you’re a breeder seeking to enhance the health of your lines or a pet owner wanting the best care for your furry friend, our team is here to guide you. 

Contact us today to learn more about these diagnostic tools and schedule your dog’s hip evaluation. Together, we can ensure your pet’s health and happiness for years to come! Call (317) 516-5921.