OFA DNA Repository
The CHIC DNA Repository collects and stores canine DNA samples along with corresponding genealogic and phenotypic information to facilitate future research and testing aimed at reducing the incidence of inherited disease in dogs. The data is completely confidential and accessible by scientists around the world.
DCA/DCAF was an early participant in this wonderful program. We launched the “Vampire Tour” where DCA and DCAF volunteers conducted clinics around the United States to collect DNA blood draws. Since that time, we offer the DNA Blood draws for Dalmatians for no charge at every James W Smith Memorial health clinic and DCAF covers the OFA submission fees for those. Even if you don’t attend the health clinics, you can still add your dog(s) to the DNA Repository.
Our most recent initiative is to ask breeders to submit full litter DNA Blood samples to the repository. DCAF pays the FedEx Overnight shipping costs as well as covering the OFA submission fees for these. Since the start of this initiative, we’ve added 145+ full litters. You can also slip in your adult Dalmatian’s blood sample with the shipment if they are not already in the database!
It is critically important to update the Health History form submitted with the original submissions as your dog goes through his/her life and develops significant conditions.
In an initiative spear headed by DCAF/DCA’s Health Committee co-chair, Ginger Iwaoka, DCAF is subsidizing the submission of DCA Member full litter blood draw submission to the DNA Repository for the future health of all Dalmatians, and all canines in general. Unfortunately, due to exorbitant overnight shipping costs, we are only able to offer this benefit to US based breeders.
Litter submission has its own set of instructions, as DCAF has generously agreed to pay for the shipping fees and OFA Application fee for ENTIRE litter submissions. Most breeders get the blood drawn and submit with their B.A.E.R. Application and Results in the same shipment. (DCAF covers the OFA fees for full litter B.A.E.R results also!)
If you have adult Dalmatians not yet in the DNA Repository, have their blood drawn at the same time and include it in the shipment!
SUBMITTING LITTER DNA instructions (printable PDF)
Your OFA Submission and Dalmatian Specific Health History Form
The cost of the blood draw is at the expense of the breeder. Include this in your litter’s “Well Puppy” vet visit for first vaccinations. Some vets will donate this cost to the cause, most will just charge a nominal fee per pup. Once the blood is received by OFA, participating breeders will be contacted by DCAF and offered a small per puppy stipend to help cover the cost of blood collection. Some breeders graciously chose to donate this amount back to DCAF.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) maintains a repository of blood samples from all breeds of dogs that scientists may access for genetic research. It’s easy to participate. Your vet can follow these directions to collect the sample and ship it. You complete the form including the health history. During your dog’s life, please update the form if significant health issues arise so that researchers working on a particular health problem can find your dog’s DNA to include in the study.
Your OFA Submission and Dalmatian Specific Health History Form
DCAF routinely offers free DNA Repository Blood draws for any Dalmatian during our James W Smith Memorial Health Clinics at the annual Dalmatian Club of America National Specialty.
So important and so easy!
Why is it important? When researchers come to the Repository, they are likely looking for dogs with a particular disease to include in the genetic research. If you have not updated your history, and your dog has or had that disease, he will not turn up in the researchers’ query. The DNA is gold. The health history information is platinum. Please update the health history for any of your dogs who have experienced significant diagnosed health issues.
Why is it easy? All you need to do is:
- Send an email to ofa@offa.org
- Include your dog’s registered name and AKC registration number.
- Include the specific diagnoses given to you by your veterinarian.
