The CAER eye exam for breeding dogs, explained
Eyes are on the health list of most breeds, and the exam behind that line is quick and painless. However, it has to be done by the right specialist and repeated on schedule. This VerifiedStuds guide explains how it works and how to read the result.
CAER stands for Companion Animal Eye Registry. It is the eye certification program run by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). An exam screens a dog for inherited eye diseases, and the result goes into OFA's public database.
Older adverts mention CERF. That was the previous registry, which closed in 2014, and OFA's program replaced it. So a "CERF exam" and a CAER eye exam mean the same kind of test.
Only a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist can do it. In the United States, that means a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO). A general vet cannot sign the form.
Step
What happens
1. Drops
Eye drops widen the pupils, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes
2. Front of the eye
The specialist checks the lids, cornea, iris and lens with a slit lamp
3. Back of the eye
An ophthalmoscope shows the retina and optic nerve
4. Form
The specialist records the findings on an OFA form, which the owner submits
The exam itself takes a few minutes and needs no sedation. In addition, many breed clubs host eye clinics at shows, where the fee is lower.
Cataracts, which cloud the lens.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and other retinal disease.
Eyelid problems, such as entropion, ectropion and extra lashes.
Lens luxation, where the lens slips out of place.
Glaucoma risk and developmental defects, including Collie eye anomaly and retinal dysplasia.
However, the exam shows only what is visible on the day. For that reason, DNA tests add to it. A dog can look normal while carrying a gene for PRA. See best DNA tests for dog breeders.
Many inherited eye diseases appear in adulthood. A dog that is clear at one year can develop cataracts at four. Therefore, an OFA eye certification is valid for only 12 months from the exam date.
As a result, breeding dogs need an exam every year for as long as they work. When you check a stud, always look at the date of his most recent exam, not just the word "normal".
A dog with no inherited eye disease is certified normal and receives an OFA eye number. Some dogs have a minor finding that OFA lists as a "breeder option". In other words, OFA notes the condition, yet the dog can still earn certification, and the breeder decides how much weight to give it.
In contrast, a dog with a significant inherited condition does not receive a certification number. The ophthalmologist's form states exactly what was seen.
Prices vary by clinic. As a rough estimate, the exam often costs $40 to $80 at a specialist's office, and less at a breed club eye clinic. In addition, OFA charges a small fee to register the result. Ask the clinic when you book.
Search his registered name on the OFA website.
Find the eye line on his record, and read the date.
Check that it is within 12 months, or ask when he is booked for his next exam.
Read any notes, such as breeder option findings.
Eyes are one part of a breed's list. See the health testing guides for the rest, and read what is a CHIC number. Then find a health-tested stud, and compare prices in the stud fee guide. Stud owners can list their stud free. This page is general information, not veterinary advice.
What is a CAER eye exam?
It is an eye screening by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist, registered with OFA's Companion Animal Eye Registry.
How long is a CAER eye exam valid?
Twelve months from the date of the exam. Breeding dogs should be re-examined every year.
Is CAER the same as CERF?
In practice, yes. CERF was the earlier registry, and OFA's CAER program replaced it.
Can my regular vet do an OFA eye exam?
No. Only a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist can perform and sign it.
How much does a dog eye certification cost?
Often about $40 to $80 for the exam, plus a small OFA registration fee. Club eye clinics are usually cheaper.
Sources: Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, eye certification, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, CHIC program. Cost figures are estimates.
Every profile shows his results, and you can verify them on OFA.