Pet Health Screening & Certifications in Madison, Maine
Whether your goal is to ensure your pet’s long-term health or to responsibly prepare for breeding, Madison Animal Hospital offers various pet health screening services. From genetic testing to orthopedic evaluations, we provide expert insights for both wellness and reproductive care.
We’re proud to support the health of dogs and cats in Madison, Skowhegan, Anson, and surrounding Maine communities.
Comprehensive Screenings for a Healthier Future
Early detection is one of the best tools we have in preventive veterinary medicine. Health screening tests allow us to identify inherited conditions, monitor developing issues, and determine whether your pet is a good candidate for breeding.
At Madison Animal Hospital, we offer a range of targeted screening services for pets at risk of certain genetic or orthopedic conditions. These tests are especially valuable for purebred dogs or those intended for breeding, but they’re also helpful in identifying and managing health concerns early in life—before symptoms become serious.
Von Willebrand’s Disease Screening
Von Willebrand’s disease is a genetic bleeding disorder similar to hemophilia in humans. Dogs with this condition lack a clotting protein in their blood, which means even a minor injury or surgery can lead to excessive bleeding.
This condition is especially common in:
- German Shepherds
- German Shorthair/Wirehair Pointers
- Golden Retrievers
- Poodles
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
- Scottish and Manchester Terriers
- Shetland Sheepdogs
If you have one of these breeds, we highly recommend a screening before any surgical procedure or breeding decision.
Renal Dysplasia Testing
Renal dysplasia is a serious hereditary kidney condition that typically affects young dogs. It causes improper kidney development and can lead to kidney failure before a dog reaches adulthood. Sadly, there is no cure—but early detection can help with care decisions and prevent passing the condition to future generations.
Breeds commonly affected include:
- Shih Tzus
- Lhasa Apsos
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers
If you’re planning to breed a dog from a high-risk breed, screening for renal dysplasia is essential.
Hip Dysplasia Evaluation
Hip dysplasia occurs when a pet’s hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability, arthritis, and mobility problems. It’s common in large-breed dogs and is often inherited, making screening a critical part of responsible breeding.
We offer early diagnostic testing and customized management plans to preserve comfort and mobility throughout your pet’s life. If you plan to breed your dog or if they participate in agility or other athletic activities, screening can also help you make informed decisions.
OFA Certification
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is a widely recognized authority for certifying pets free from genetic joint disorders, especially hip dysplasia. We provide OFA-certified radiographs taken under general anesthesia to ensure proper positioning and accurate grading.
OFA evaluations are ideal for:
- Breeding soundness assessments
- Dogs over 24 months of age
- Dogs with a family history of hip issues
PennHIP Method
The PennHIP method is a highly accurate way to detect hip dysplasia—even in puppies as young as 16 weeks old. This procedure uses a series of three X-rays to assess joint laxity and long-term risk. PennHIP is especially helpful for selecting young breeding candidates or evaluating athletic dogs early in life.
Our veterinarians are trained in PennHIP positioning and can help determine which hip screening option is right for your pet.
Helping You Make Informed Pet Health & Breeding Decisions
Whether you’re planning to breed or want peace of mind about your pet’s long-term health, our screening services are designed to give you the answers you need. Madison Animal Hospital is proud to be a trusted breeding vet and preventive care provider in Madison, ME.