As a pet parent and a science enthusiast, I’ve always been intrigued by the myriad of health issues our furry friends can face. One of the most common and often overlooked is eye health. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of heritable eye diseases in dogs and how the Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER) is making a difference.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER)
CAER, a noble initiative by concerned pet parents and breeders, aims to eliminate genetic or heritable eye diseases in purebred dogs. Established in collaboration with board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists, this organization has set a commendable goal of eradicating heritable eye diseases in all purebred dogs by creating a centralized, national registry.
CAER not only registers dogs that are certified free of heritable eye disease by members of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO), but it also collects comprehensive data on all dogs examined by ACVO Diplomates. This data forms the CAER database, which is instrumental in researching eye disease trends and breed susceptibility.
The CAER Exam and Certification Process
After a gentle examination of your dog’s eyes by an ACVO Diplomate, they will complete the CAER form, indicating any specific disease(s) found. Breeding advice will be provided based on guidelines set by the ACVO’s Genetics Committee for that particular breed.
It’s important to note that CAER and ACVO, while separate entities, work in tandem to maintain uniform standards for the certification of a dog’s eyes. If your dog is certified free of heritable eye disease, you can submit the completed CAER form along with the required fee. The certification is valid for 12 months, after which your dog will need to be re-examined and recertified.
Regardless of the outcome, the research copy of the CAER form is sent to the OFA office, where the information is entered into the database for that specific breed. This data aids in generating research reports while ensuring the dog’s identity remains confidential.
DNA Testing
While many eye diseases are believed to be hereditary, only ten have been proven as such through peer-reviewed research. Dogs affected by these diseases, such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye), glaucoma, retinal dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy, are ineligible for certification.
For more information on CAER or to locate board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists in your area, you can reach out to CAER at Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.
Conclusion
Eye health in dogs is a critical aspect of their overall well-being, and CAER plays a pivotal role in addressing heritable eye diseases. As a pet parent, it’s essential to be aware of the potential eye issues your dog may face and take proactive steps to ensure their health and happiness. By understanding the importance of CAER and the certification process, we can contribute to a healthier future for our beloved canine companions.