​Hip Hip Hooray! Ada Passes OFA Preliminary Hip Dysplasia Evaluation!

We’re thrilled to announce that our beautiful brindle girl, Jr CH Lexus Dos Reis Da Fonte, affectionately known as Ada, has successfully passed her OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Preliminary Hip Dysplasia Evaluation with Normal results!

​Understanding the OFA Preliminary Evaluation

The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals provides preliminary evaluations for dogs under 24 months to assess hip conformation. This is invaluable for breeders and owners who wish to make informed decisions about breeding, showing, or placing dogs in pet homes.

Key Points about Preliminary Evaluations

• Age of Evaluation: Dogs can be evaluated as young as 4 months.
• Reliability: The reliability of these evaluations increases with age. For normal hip conformation, reliability is 89.6% at 3-6 months, 93.8% at 7-12 months, and 95.2% at 13-18 months.
• Grading Scheme: Hips are classified as Excellent, Good, Fair (all within normal limits), Borderline, Mild, Moderate, or Severe (the last three indicating dysplasia).

Ada’s Results

Last week, Ada attended the OFA Health Clinic hosted by Westside Village Animal Hospital for a Preliminary Hip Dysplasia Evaluation. As every breeder hopes, she passed.  Ada’s evaluation returned a consensus of FAIR, which is within normal limits and indicates no radiographic evidence of hip dysplasia. This is great news for her future and our breeding program.

Importance of Hip Screening

Hip screenings are crucial in ensuring the health and longevity of breeds prone to hip dysplasia. The OFA uses precise radiographic techniques to assess hip joint conformation and identify any potential issues early on.

Ada’s successful evaluation underscores our commitment to responsible breeding practices. Breeding correct, typey, and healthy dogs is a delicate balancing act that requires informed decision-making. Our comprehensive health testing serves as a vital tool, providing essential information to guide our breeding program. Rather than simply determining whether a dog should be bred, these tests offer valuable insights that allow us to make well-informed choices. By utilizing this information, we aim to contribute to the overall improvement of the breed and ensure the well-being of future generations, demonstrating our dedication to ethical breeding practices and the long-term health of the breed.

We couldn’t be prouder of Ada and look forward to her bright future!