Canine Physical Exam
The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that dogs get routine exams twice a year. The typical physical exam your veterinarian conducts achieves the following: establish baselines, allows them to monitor the effectiveness of treatment they may have prescribed, and catch any changes in the dogs physical status.
Because dogs cannot talk to their doctors, the veterinarians rely on observation. When they first enter the examining room, they will judge the dogs emotional reaction and physical signs. Are they curious, alert, happy? Or are they hanging their heads, stumbling, tail down? The veterinarian quickly does a visual evaluation of the body language and signs.
The dog will be weighed and evaluated for obesity or malnutrition. The veterinarian will look for physical symmetry along with weight. Any sudden weight gain or loss may be a sign of a physical problem.
The skin and coat will be examined for signs of overall health. Usually this part of the exam starts around the lips, ears, and eyes primarily the junctions between mucous membranes and the haired skin. The skin and hair can reflect parasite infestation, your dogs nutrition, and metabolism.
ENT - Your veterinarian will thoroughly check your pet's ear, eyes, and mouth area for any inflammation, odor, or parasites. The teeth will be examined to look for build up of tartar and redness, chipped teeth, and any oral masses. They will also exam the gums - the color can tell the vet alot about the condition of the mouth.
Heart and Lungs - your veterinarian will listen for any wheezing or crackling in the lungs - this is a health concern. They hope to heart a normal heart rate and rhythm. They look for heart murmurs.
Internal Organs - This is done by palpitation and includes checking for normal liver size, location, and edges. The large and small intestines are examined for excess fluid, gas, or possible masses.
Lymph Nodes - The dog will be examined for any bumps or swelling in the lymph node regions. This can be a sign of sepsis or lymphoma.
Private Parts - Male dogs will have their prostate checked. Both sexes will have be examined for any signs of swelling or discharge in this area. The veterinarian will check a joint between the pelvis and hips for pain as well as the lymph nodes and anal sacs.
During the entire exam, your vet will be looking for any signs of pain. This is especially true in the spine, tail and major joints.
Normally blood is taken and the following values are checked:
- Thyroid Levels
- Kidney and Liver Functions
- Pancreas Levels
- Metabolism
- Glucose Levels
- CBC - Anemia or Infection
- Electrolytes
