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Hip Dysplasia Screening & Prevention for Dogs & Cats
PennHIP (Pennsylvania Hip Improvement Program) is an advanced diagnostic tool designed to assess the risk of hip dysplasia in dogs.
Unlike traditional hip evaluations, PennHIP focuses on measuring joint laxity (looseness), which is a primary indicator of future hip problems. The test involves taking three specific X-ray views under sedation, allowing veterinarians to calculate a distraction index (DI) that quantifies hip looseness. Research has shown that PennHIP is more accurate than other methods at predicting the onset of osteoarthritis, the hallmark of hip dysplasia. Additionally, the findings from PennHIP studies are published in scientific journals and shared with breed clubs, making it a valuable resource for improving breed health by helping eliminate hip dysplasia genes from breeding stock. Because PennHIP can be performed as early as 16 weeks of age, pet owners and breeders can take proactive steps to manage or reduce the risk of hip dysplasia before symptoms develop.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) scoring system is another widely recognized method for evaluating hip health. Unlike PennHIP, which measures joint laxity, OFA scoring is a subjective evaluation performed by radiologists who assess hip joint conformation through a single X-ray. Dogs must be at least 2 years old for a final OFA certification, as hip structure continues to develop with age. The results are graded on a scale from Excellent to Severe, and only dogs with passing scores (Fair, Good, or Excellent) receive certification. OFA scoring is often used by breeders to certify dogs before breeding, but it does not provide the same early predictive value as PennHIP. While it remains a valuable tool for assessing hip health, PennHIP’s objective measurements make it the preferred choice for those looking for an early, accurate assessment of hip dysplasia risk.
To learn more about PennHIP, visit:
- Antech Diagnostics – What is PennHIP?
- VetPrep – Pros and Cons of PennHIP and OFA Hip Radiographs
- University of Pennsylvania – Bellwether Magazine PennHIP Article
Dr. Kate Moeller at Lone Tree Animal Care Center in Omaha is certified to perform both OFA and PennHIP evaluations. If you’re looking for PennHIP in Omaha or need expert Omaha PennHIP testing, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment today to assess your pet’s joint well-being. Contact us today to book your pet’s evaluation and ensure their long-term joint health.