Equine Physical Examination

What is the most important part of the database?

history and physical examination

Why is Hx and PE important?

starting point

What is the baseline for physical examination?

vpcr

(T/F) The veterinarian performing a pre-purchase examination is working in the seller’s best interest.

false

(T/F) A pre-purchase examination is not a guarantee of the horse’s future performance.

true

What is the ideal BCS of a horse

5-6 1/2

List characteristics of depressed behavior.

pain, weakness, cerebral dysfunction

List characteristics of general abnormal behavior.

pain, cerebral dysfunction

Normal equine temperature?

99-101.5F

Normal equine HR?

28-44 bpm

What arrhythmia can affect the heart rate?

2nd degree av block

Normal equine RR?

6-12 bpm

Normal GI motility in a normal adult horse at rest?

1-3 bpm

Define borborygmi.

noises produced by movement of gas in the allmentary canal

What is normal defecation of an adult horse?

6-12 piles per day

Normal neonate temperature?

99-102F

Normal neonate HR?

80-120 bpm

Normal neonate RR?

20-60 bpm

How often should neonates nurse?

4-6 times per hour

How is a horse’s weight estimated?

girth circumference

Where does a horse’s height measurement start?

point of withers

Normal equine temperature?

99-101.5F

How is pulse rate taken?

palpation of arteries

What is the most convenient location for pulse rate?

facial artery

Where is the facial artery?

medial aspect of the mandible

What is the most common cause of an irregular heart rhythm?

2nd degree av block

List the landmarks for listening to GI motility.

flank area, point of hip (tuber coxae), last rib

How long should you listen to each quadrant of the GI system?

1 minute

Where is a skin turgor test done?

point of shoulder

Normal for skin turgor?

1 second or less

Gait evaluation is easier to detect at a…

trot

A hoof hammer hits where?

hoof wall

What is defined by any deviation in structure or function that interferes with a horse’s intended use or performance?

unsoundness

What are abnormalities which do not affect the use of the horse?

bemishes

Name some blemishes.

windpuffs, shoe boil, splints

Name 3 unsoundnesses.

laminitis, seedy toe, cracks