In brief, a physical examination is a “stem to stern” physical check up of all your pet’s body systems. Assessments include:
- oral assessment
- upper respiratory assessment
- eye assessment
- ear and ear canal examination
- palpation (feeling) of all external lymph nodes
- auscultation (listening) to the heart and lungs
- palpation of the abdomen
- assessment of the skin
- assessment of the musculoskeletal system (muscles, joints and bones)
- temperature, pulse, and respirations
- body weight and Body Condition Scoring