1. Responses to Handling:
Checking the animal's reaction to being handled and touched can help identify any potential pain or discomfort which could indicate a health issue.
2. Hydration Status:
Monitoring hydration levels is important for detecting dehydration as well as other health issues such as kidney problems or diabetes.
3. Temperature:
Taking the animal's temperature can help to identify potential illnesses, infections, or inflammation.
4. Heart Rate and Pulse Check:
Monitoring the heart beats per minute (BPM) and any abnormalities of the pulse can indicate cardiac problems or other issues such as anemia.
5. Respiratory Rate Measurement:
Checking the number of breaths per minute can help recognize respiratory illnesses or conditions such as asthma.
6. Abdominal Palpation:
Gently feeling around the abdominal area can help to detect masses, organ enlargement, fluid buildup, deformities, lumps, or pain which may indicate a medical issue.
7. Skin and Coat Examination:
Looking at changes in skin color/texture, fur patterns, or any lumps or bumps can help to detect skin problems or parasites.
8. Mucous Membranes:
Examining the color of the eyes and gums can help indicate anemia, dehydration, organ failure, infection, or other issues.
9. Limb Examination:
Checking for swelling/redness/deformity in the limbs can help detect issues such as arthritis, lameness, or fractures.
10. Neurologic Examination:
Observing coordination and muscle tone while checking reflexes helps to identify neurological disorders such as seizures or paralysis.
