The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals
Founded and originally incorporated as a private not for profit foundation in 1966, this year the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) celebrates its 40th anniversary. Credit for the formation of the OFA is generally attributed to John M. Olin, well known inventor, industrialist, philanthropist, conservationist, and sportsman. John Olin was an avid sportsman, hunter, and field trial participant. When hip dysplasia began to impact the performance of Olins dogs, he organized an initial meeting with representatives of the veterinary community, the Golden Retriever Club of America, and the German Shepherd Dog Club of America to discuss means of limiting the disease. This ultimately led to the formation and incorporation of the OFA in 1966. Its initial mission to provide radiographic evaluation, data management, and genetic counseling for canine hip dysplasia.
While the OFA continues to focus on hip dysplasia, todays OFA Mission, To improve the health and well being of companion animals through a reduction in the incidence of genetic disease, reflects the organizations expansion into other inherited diseases and other companion animals such as cats.To collate and disseminate information concerning orthopedic and genetic diseases of animals.To advise, encourage and establish control programs to lower the incidence of orthopedic and genetic diseases.To encourage and finance research in orthopedic and genetic disease in animals. To receive funds and make grants to carry out these objectives
For more information, please visit http://www.offa.org