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Following the examination of the head, we move down to the neck and body (step 2). Here, we palpate the lymph nodes under the chin, in front of the shoulders, and behind the hamstrings. While running our hands over the pet, we also feel for strong pulses, as well as lumps, skin irregularities and sore areas. Next we listen to the heart and lungs with our stethoscope(step 3). It is important to make sure that the heart has a normal rate, sound and rhythm; the lungs should have only faint breath noises. After we put the stethoscope away, we perform abdominal
palpations—we feel the abdomen for tenderness, enlarged or irregular organs, and masses (step 4). Depending on the type of pet, certain additional physical manipulations may be done. For example, many small dogs have loose kneecaps, so we may take a few moments to check these areas in particular. In senior dogs, a rectal exam is commonly performed to check for masses in the anal glands and rectum. Finally, we check each leg, paw, and toenails and trim long nails, if needed. The physical exam is the most important diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine. In performing hundreds of exams a year and utilizing all of our senses, we are able to detect even subtle changes that may reveal developing diseases or abnormal conditions. At your dog’s next checkup, take notice of the doctor’s actions. If it seems your vet is extra curious to sniff your pet’s fur (or breath!) and seems particularly interested in their movements around the exam room, just know it’s all a part of good preventative care to keep our beloved pets happy and healthy! ND
Adrianne Doering, VMD, CVA of Leesburg Veterinary Hospital (www. leesburgvet.com) contributed to this article. While Dr. Doering specializes in veterinary acupuncture, she’s happy to sniff her way through all types of pet wellness examinations.
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