actually, you need to have a vet on the ofa cardiac approved list do it. not all people on the list are board certified cardiologists, although most are. ofa says 'each dog is to be examined and classified by a veterinarian with EXPERTISE in the recognition of canine congenital heart disease in accordance with procedures outlined in the enclosed application and general instructions.'
the exam itself takes about 5 minutes & requires no sedation. if a murmur is found, then a ecg would be recommended to distinguish between an abnormality & an 'innocent murmur'. in our area, an ofa cardiac exam costs approximately $20-25. it can cost less if you do it at a health clinic. the ofa fee is $15 (or $10 for a provisional for a dog under 1 yr of age). ofa does not charge to enter an abnormal result. i don't know how many bernese people do ofa cardiac exams. i was surprised when i had dickens examined & he came back bmd#1. lisa baldwin (dickens, bark & zel) seattle, wa [EMAIL PROTECTED]
