CERF Exams

Purebred dogs have inherited eye diseases that can be blinding or affect eye health.  In an effort to limit or eradicate genetic ocular diseases, the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) collects data on breeding dogs and issues certificates determining a dog's fitness for breeding.  The Genetics Committee of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) determines the guidelines for CERF certification and regularly evaluates and recommends how dogs should be bred, depending on their eye exam status.

Eye Examination Process

Dogs can receive a CERF examination at their veterinary eye specialist's hospital, or at local CERF clinics that are frequently held at dog shows, general veterinary practices or at breed clubs.  Only specialists in veterinary ophthalmology who are Diplomates of the ACVO can do a CERF eye exam (see FAQs for more information on DACVO). 

Dogs can examined at any age and CERF certification is valid for 1 year after the examination.  Breeding animals should be examined annually, even after they have stopped breeding, in order to look for genetic eye diseases.

Eye exams are typically done after the pupils have been dilated and in a darkened room.  Drops are given to dilate the eyes and take 20-30 minutes to work.  The front part of the eye is examined with a slit-lamp biomicroscope and retina and back part of the eye is examined with lenses and a indirect ophthalmoscope.  The exam itself typically takes several minutes.

The pupils can remain dilated for several hours after the exam, so dogs should be kept out of the bright sunlight after an exam.

CERF forms

Before the exam, the dog's owner is given a form to complete with information on:
 
1)  the owner (name, address)
2)  the dog (name, breed, birth date, AKC registration number, tatoo or microchip identification number)

After the examination, the veterinary ophthalmologist will complete the form and indicate any eye abnormalities.  The owner will then be given a page to submit to CERF with a fee in order to obtain a certificate.  CERF determines the suitability of each given dog for breeding based on the eye examination findings.