OFA Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER) Exam in Greenville, SC
Whether you’re maintaining a reputable breeding program or ensuring the well-being of your companion animal, our specialized eye exams provide the trusted insight you need.
Preserve Vision. Protect Genetics. Promote Health.
At Carolina Animal Eye, we are proud to offer OFA Companion Animal Eye Registry (CAER) exams, a critical service for responsible breeders and pet owners dedicated to preventing inherited eye diseases in dogs. Conducted by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists, this specialized exam supports the long-term health of breeding lines and helps maintain high standards of animal welfare.
Serving pet owners and breeders throughout Greenville and the surrounding communities of Upper South Carolina, our clinic combines medical excellence with compassionate care so you and your dogs can see a clearer, healthier future.
What Is a CAER Exam?
The Companion Animal Eye Registry exam is a screening evaluation designed to identify inherited eye conditions in breeding dogs. Administered through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) in collaboration with the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO), this exam allows breeders to make informed decisions that reduce the incidence of genetic eye disease in future generations.
At Carolina Animal Eye, our veterinarians are certified to perform these exams and submit official results to the OFA for registry.
Why Are CAER Exams Important?
Eye diseases such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and retinal dysplasia can be passed from one generation to the next. CAER exams help:
- Identify heritable ocular conditions before breeding
- Support ethical breeding practices that prioritize long-term health
- Protect puppies from vision loss and serious eye disorders
- Provide peace of mind for breeders and future pet owners
Routine screening ensures only dogs with healthy eyes are added to breeding programs, reducing the prevalence of vision-related issues in the breed population.
What to Expect During Your Dog’s CAER Exam
When you bring your dog to Carolina Animal Eye for a CAER exam, you can expect a smooth, thorough process designed with your pet’s comfort in mind. Here’s what to expect during your dog’s exam:
1. Brief Medical History Review
Our ophthalmologist will start by discussing your dog’s age, breed, and any history of eye problems or related concerns.
2. Ocular Examination
Using specialized tools and gentle restraint, we examine the entire eye — eyelids, cornea, lens, retina, and optic nerve. Pupil dilation is typically performed to provide a complete view of the inner eye structures.
3. Results and Reporting
If your dog is free from inherited eye disease, the exam results are submitted to the OFA database, and you’ll receive a certificate confirming your dog’s passing status. If abnormalities are found, we’ll explain them in detail and recommend follow-up care or further diagnostics.
Why Choose Us For Your Pet’s CAER Exam?
- Board-Certified Veterinary Ophthalmologists – Our doctors are ACVO-certified specialists with advanced training in veterinary eye care.
- State-of-the-Art Equipment – We use the latest ophthalmic technology to ensure accurate, non-invasive diagnosis and exam results.
- Trusted by Breeders and Pet Owners Alike – We’ve worked with hundreds of responsible breeders across South Carolina and beyond, helping them maintain healthy lines.
- Compassionate, Pet-Centered Approach – Whether you’re a breeder or a devoted pet parent, we treat every animal like our own — with patience, empathy, and professionalism.
Whether you’re planning a litter or updating your breeding records, the OFA Companion Animal Eye Registry exam is an essential step in safeguarding your dogs’ health and future.