Orthopedic Foundation for Animals and Bailey

I took Bailey this morning into our local vet to get his hips and elbows x-rayed for certification with the OFA.

Along with this I had him micro chipped again because his original chip had moved way down onto his leg.

Next I will send off the DNA sample to AKC for registration.  This is needed if Bailey makes it to the Vizsla Nationals one day.  To register the DNA you need a micro chip or tattoo registration attached. 

Now that Bailey is over two, we need to make sure his joints are good and that there are no signs of hip dysplasia.

If there is hip dysplaia or other signs of weak joints, then breeding and field trialing are not options.  The goal of breeding is to breed solid healthy hunters.  We believe he will come through with flying colors. but won't know for about three weeks. 

Here is a section from the OFA website:


Over Forty Years of Dedication to the Advancement of Canine Health


Founded and originally incorporated as a private not for profit foundation in 1966, the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) has passed its 40th birthday and is moving into the future.



Credit for the formation of the OFA is generally attributed to John M. Olin, well known inventor, industrialist, philanthropist, conservationist, and sportsman. John Olin was an avid sportsman, hunter, and field trial participant. When hip dysplasia began to impact the performance of Olin’s dogs, he organized an initial meeting with representatives of the veterinary community, the Golden Retriever Club of America, and the German Shepherd Dog Club of America to discuss means of limiting the disease. This ultimately led to the formation and incorporation of the OFA in 1966. Its initial mission: To provide radiographic evaluation, data management, and genetic counseling for canine hip dysplasia.



While the OFA continues to focus on hip dysplasia, today’s OFA Mission, “To improve the health and well being of companion animals through a reduction in the incidence of genetic disease,” reflects the organization’s expansion into other inherited diseases and other companion animals such as cats.

The OFA is guided by the following four specific objectives:

To collate and disseminate information concerning orthopedic and genetic diseases of animals.

To advise, encourage and establish control programs to lower the incidence of orthopedic and genetic diseases.

To encourage and finance research in orthopedic and genetic disease in animals.

To receive funds and make grants to carry out these objectives