1. General Appearance:
During a dog physical exam, the vet will assess the pet’s general appearance, looking for any signs of illness or distress such as weight loss or changes in coat texture or color. The vet will also take note of any physical abnormalities that may be indicative of underlying health issues such as lameness, bumps, or masses.
2. Head and Neck:
The vet will check the eyes, ears, nose, throat, face, and mouth for any signs of infection or other issues. The head and neck region should be thoroughly examined to ensure there are no lumps, bumps, or swellings present. The pet’s teeth should also be checked to make sure they are properly aligned and functioning correctly.
3. Ears, Eyes and Throat:
The ears should be checked for any discharge or wax buildup that can indicate an ear infection as well as excessive scratching which may indicate inflammation of the external ear canal or mites infestation. The eyes should be assessed for cloudiness due to cataracts or glaucoma. The vet will also check the throat for any signs of inflammation or infection.
4. Chest and Lungs:
The chest should be examined for any signs of breathing difficulty or labored breathing, which could indicate asthma, allergies, heart disease, or other conditions. The lungs should be checked for any crackles or wheezing that may signify a respiratory illness.
5. Abdomen:
The vet will assess the abdomen to check for lumps or swelling that can indicate tumors, hernias, cysts, fluid buildup from liver disease, or other issues. The stomach area should also be felt carefully to make sure it is soft and not overly distended which could suggest intestinal parasites.
6. Musculoskeletal System:
The pet’s joints should be checked for any signs of arthritis or other joint disease, as well as range of motion and gait. Any lameness or stiffness should be noted, as this can indicate a variety of conditions that may need to be treated.
7. Skin and Coat:
The vet will check the skin for any lumps, bumps, parasites, scabs, or infections which could require treatment. The coat should also be evaluated for any bald patches or areas where excessive shedding is occurring which may suggest allergies or skin diseases.
8. Nails, Teeth and Gums:
The pet’s nails should be trimmed if necessary and their teeth should be examined for any signs of decay or gum disease. The gums should also be checked for any signs of infection or other issues.
9. Anal and Genital Regions:
The anal glands should be expressed to make sure they are not impacted, which can cause pain and discomfort in the pet. The genital region should also be assessed for any abnormalities such as an enlarged prostate, testicular tumors, or hernias.
10. Lymph Nodes:
The vet will check the pet’s lymph nodes (located along its head, neck, chest and hind legs) for any swelling that could indicate a more serious health issueBy carefully checking each of these areas during the dog physical exam, you can be sure that your four-legged friend is getting the care they deserve.
