Pulse Rate, Respiration Rate and Body Temperature (PRT)

• Respiration Rate Determination

  Without disturbing the animal, count and record the rising of the hind flank (belly; in front of the hind legs) for one minute. Get two readings and compute for the average. The respiration rate in poultry is not measured but panting should be observed. If panting occurs, respiratory problems may have occurred.
• Pulse Rate Determination

  • Cattle/Carabao - coccygeal artery at the base of the tail
  • Sheep/Goat - femoral artery at the anterior border of the pubis
  • Pig - auscultation by using a stethoscope held at the chest area
• Body Temperature Determination

  Carefully insert the thermometer into the rectum for a period of about two minutes; make sure that the pointed end of the thermometer is close to the rectal body wall. However, this is not commonly practiced as the method will cause stress in animals. Infrared thermometers are now being used in farms. Chicks body temperature is measured using ear thermometers on the vent. Get two readings and compute for the average.
• Normal PRT Values (Philippine Recommends for Animal Health Care, 2007)