At Meadowrun Affordable Pet Care, we are proud to be one of the few practices in our area offering both PennHIP and OFA services. These advanced screening tools allow us to detect joint issues early, so your pet can live a more comfortable, active life. They are especially valuable for families with large-breed dogs that are more prone to hip or elbow concerns, and for breeders who want to ensure healthier litters.
PennHIP
What it is
PennHIP is a specialized X-ray technique that measures how loose a dog’s hips are in the joint. Unlike a simple pass/fail test, it provides a numeric score called the Distraction Index (DI). This score helps predict the likelihood of hip dysplasia and arthritis later in life.
Why it matters for your dog
For pet owners, knowing your dog’s risk early (as young as 16 weeks of age) helps us create a personalized plan to protect their hips through diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments. For breeders, PennHIP provides an objective number that can guide thoughtful breeding decisions to reduce hip problems in future generations.
What to expect
Your dog will receive a light sedation so we can safely position them for three radiographic views. The images are then sent to a PennHIP analysis center, with results typically available within a few days. You’ll leave with a clear explanation of what the results mean for your dog’s health and future care.
OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals)
What it is
The OFA is a national registry that evaluates X-rays for orthopedic conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. OFA certifications provide a standardized grade (Excellent, Good, or Fair) once your dog is at least two years old, with preliminary evaluations available for younger dogs.
Why it matters for your dog
For pet owners, OFA screenings help us identify joint changes before they become painful, allowing us to support your dog’s long-term comfort and mobility. For breeders, OFA certifications serve as an official record that can be shared publicly, ensuring transparency and healthier breeding practices.
What to expect
We take radiographs under careful positioning and submit them directly to the OFA. Their board-certified radiologists review the images and provide an official result, which we’ll discuss with you in detail.
PennHIP vs. OFA: Which is right for my dog?
PennHIP provides early detection with a measurable risk score available as early as 16 weeks, while OFA offers official certifications at 24 months or older for long-term records and transparency. Many families choose PennHIP first for early insight and then follow up with OFA once their dog is fully grown.
Ready to Schedule?
Whether you’re a pet parent who wants to protect your dog’s comfort and mobility, or a breeder looking to make responsible choices, our team is here to help. With PennHIP and OFA available right here at Meadowrun Affordable Pet Care, you don’t have to travel far for advanced screening.
Call us at (813) 685-7775 to schedule your appointment or ask us any questions.