Eliminating Heritable Eye Disease in Purebred Dogs

CERF is the Canine Eye Registration Foundation CERF was founded by a group of concerned purebred owner/breeders with a goal of eliminating heritable eye diseases in purebred dogs through registration, research, and education.

* Registration
CERF cooperates with the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) to maintain a registry of purebred dogs that the ACVO Diplomats (members) examine and have found to be unaffected by major heritable eye disease.
* Research
CERF also maintains a research data base which consists of information that is generated by all examinations done by ACVO Diplomates. Reports generated from this resource help breeders and ophthalmologists identify trends in eye disease and breed susceptibility.
* Education
CERF is dedicated to educating the public on matters involving canine eye disease. CERF provides a variety of reports, the CERF newsletter and other eye disease materials to help educate the owner/breeder on heritable eye disease questions, healthy breeding stock, and breed-specific eye problems.

Why should I have my dog's eyes examined by an ACVO Diplomate?

* An ACVO Diplomate is board certified to meet high standards of proficiency in the field of veterinary ophthalmology.
* An ACVO Diplomate can accurately diagnose and treat any eye diseases your dog may have.
* An ACVO Diplomate can offer breeding advice based on research and standards established by the ACVO genetics committee for a particular breed.
* CERF and ACVO are separate, but cooperating entities. The ACVO Diplomates provide their professional services and expertise to ensure uniform standards are upheld in CERF's registration of dogs found to be free of evidence of heritable eye disease.

Why is it important to get my dog registered with CERF?

* Your dog can be identified as being registered with CERF to other interested dog breeders or buyers. Dogs can be advertised using CERF registration numbers.
* CERF registration shows your support for the mutual goal of eliminating heritable eye disease in purebred canines, and provides your puppy buyers and other breeders with proof of your integrity and commitment to maintaining the highest quality bloodlines.
* CERF registration contributes to the support of your national and local breed clubs, some of which require CERF registration to be in good standing. ·CERF registration supports the American Kennel Club's (AKC) role in promoting responsible breeding and ownership. AKC is incorporating CERF registration numbers on their registration slips and certified pedigrees.