One of the goals of ophthalmologists is to reduce the number of eye problems that arise due to genetic abnormalities. In an effort to achieve this goal, screening eye examinations are performed on purebred dogs that are being used for breeding purposes. These are called CERF examinations, which stands for Canine Eye Registration Foundation. Annual examinations are recommended since many of the genetic eye problems are acquired and may not show up until middle or older age. Single dogs or litters of puppies can have CERF examinations. These examinations are screening examinations only and are distinct from the examinations performed to evaluate a known eye problem.
Dogs coming for CERF examinations should arrive 20 minutes early, for paperwork and to allow time for maximal pupillary dilation. Owners and/or breeders of dogs coming for CERF examinations should bring the registration number of the dog(s). This is required on the CERF form and is vital for us to track statistics on individual dog breeds. CERF will not accept forms without registration numbers. They also request a microchip or tattoo number.
For more information on CERF exams, please visit CERF at http://www.vmdb.org/history.html
Lastly, if you are interested in either a CERF clinic and/or a lecture to your breed club, please contact us for availability. We would love to help you out!
