SigMT

SiG MT 101 Head to Tail – Here's a list of what is assessed and evaluated. • BAR- is your pet Bright, Alert and Responsive? • Measurement of the pet's: Temperature, Pulse, Respirations ese are the normal vitals for: Puppies': Temperature: 100-102.5° F Pulse: 70-120 beats per minute Respiratory rate: 15-40 breaths per minute Small and medium-sized dogs: Temperature: 100-102.5° F Pulse: 70-140 beats per minute Respiratory rate: 15-30 breaths per minute Larger dogs: Temperature: 100-102.5° F Pulse: 70-120 beats per minute Respiratory rate: 15-30 breaths per minute Cats: Temperature: 100-102.5° F Pulse: 110-130 beats per minute Respiratory rate: 15-30 breaths per minute • Gait- Is there any stiffness, swelling or lameness? • Skin and Coat- Are there signs of fleas, ticks or parasites? Signs of allergies? e coat should be shiny, not brile and coarse, and the skin should be clean and not greasy or flaky. • Eyes- Are there early cataract formation, any haziness on the surface of the cornea, glaucoma or inflammation? • Mouth- Are there infected/bleeding gums, loose teeth, tumors, discharge, a foul odor, or broken teeth? Oen your pet shows no signs of discomfort from even serious oral abnormalities. • Ears- Is there any redness, discharge, bad odors, parasites or even a foreign body like a grass seed or foxtail? • Lymph Nodes: Are any enlarged or painful? • Heart and lungs- Are there unusual breath sounds, a heart murmur, or a heart rhythm abnormality? • Abdomen- Can the doctor feel any abnormalities, including enlarged organs, masses, or painful areas, to detect problems with the stomach, intestines, kidneys, liver, and other organs. • Reproductive organs- Is your pet spayed or neutered? If not, your Veterinarian will discuss with you the many health benefits of spaying/neutering. • Rectal examination (specific for dogs that are middle aged and older): Are there any growths present within or around the rectum? Do the anal glands feel and look normal? • Paws and toenails- e feet should be examined for any signs of excessive chewing, redness or infections. Nails should be clipped if they are too long. For senior pets, routine testing can add years to their lives. ere are several reasons that laboratory testing is an important part of your pet's wellness care. Diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, and some hormonal diseases occur more frequently in older animals. By the time a dog or cat is showing clinical signs of illness it may be too late to intervene and alter the course of disease. e earlier we detect problems, the more of an impact we can have on longevity and their quality of life. Dawn Milligan has been with Best Friends Animal Hospital for over 13 years. Dawn is a Veterinary Technician with over 30 years experience. She has been the Practice Manager for the last 8 years. Dawn's passion is advocating for all animals. S MT

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