Health Checks L5

• What are the key components to include in a health check plan for an animal?

  • Current situation assessment
  • Health and welfare targets
  • Time frame for achieving targets
• What should you monitor during a health check of an animal?

  Health conditions, weight, mobility, food and water consumption
• What signs of normal health should be checked in an animal's eyes?

  • Bright and clear
  • Reactive to surroundings
  • No cataracts, discharge, or swelling
• What are the signs of normal health to check for in an animal's ears?

  • Clean
  • No discharge or smell
  • No ear mites or swelling
• What does a dry or damp nose indicate in animals?

  It varies by species; a damp nose in some can indicate illness
• What should be checked in an animal's mouth during a health check?

  • Cleanliness
  • All teeth present
  • No smell or plaque buildup
• What does a white color in mucous membranes indicate?

  Shock
• What does a blue color in mucous membranes indicate?

  Lack of oxygen
• What does a yellow color in mucous membranes indicate?

  Jaundice
• What is the blanch test used for in health checks?

  • To check capillary refill time
  • Press on gums and observe color return within 2 seconds
• What should be checked regarding an animal's fur, skin, or scales?

  • Clean and glossy coat
  • No parasites or irritation
  • Check for sunburn and fur loss
• What indicates a correct stance and gait in an animal?

  Full tail present and correct shape for the individual
• What should be observed regarding an animal's movement and posture?

  Should not be limping, dragging paws, or hunched
• What behaviors indicate normal health in animals?

  • Social behavior
  • Mating behavior
  • Feeding behavior
  • Vocalizations
• What should be monitored regarding an animal's food and water intake?

  Normal feeding and drinking behaviors for the individual
• What color is normal urine in most species?

  Straw-colored
• What could blood in urine or faeces indicate?

  That the animal is ill
• What vital signs should be checked during a health assessment?

  • Weight
  • Temperature
  • Pulse
  • Respiration
• What does a high temperature usually indicate?

  Infection
• What should health check plans and records be like?

  • Clear and easy to follow
  • Logical order
  • Thorough and detailed
  • Legible and accurate
• What information should be included in a health check card?

  • Animal identification details
  • Date and time
  • Weight of animal
  • History and movement
  • Areas to be checked
  • Medication
  • Behaviour/temperament
• What other records should be maintained alongside health checks?

  • Veterinary records
  • Feeding and watering intake records
  • Monitoring clinical signs
  • Frequency of defecation and urination
  • Pain management
  • Adverse reactions
• What should be included in a personal health check sheet?

  • Animal’s details
  • Appetite and water intake
  • Behaviour and movement
  • Appearance of eyes, ears, nose, mouth/teeth
  • Mucous membranes
  • Limbs/feet
  • Faeces and urine
  • Body condition score and weight
  • Appearance of skin/fur/feathers/scales
• What additional considerations should be made for health checks over time?

  • Record over a minimum of 3 health checks
  • Ensure the same animal is checked each time
  • Track vaccinations, grooming, exercise, and preventative care treatments
• How does a hospital form differ from a health check form?

  • Hospital form contains detailed medical history
  • Should cover multiple days of observation
  • Designed for veterinary practice needs