Boxer |
| I thought it would be fun for you, the readers of pet corner, to work up a case with me to see how this process is done. Typically, a thorough history is taken first, then a physical exam and finally any diagnostic tests that may be warranted. We will use my own personal pet, Kaiser, a four year old Boxer, for this week's example. Kaiser's chief complaints are: sudden aggressiveness with strangers, occasional problems walking, and a loss of about six pounds over the past seven months. He is current on vaccines and on monthly heartworm, flea and tick prevention. Kaiser does have a history of some minor seizure activity approximately nine months ago but he has been normal in this regard since that time. Upon physical exam, Kaiser appears to be in good health with the exception of being a bit thin and having a mild amount of dental tartar. His weight has gone from sixty one pounds in April of this year to fifty five pounds today and his body temperature is normal. No abnormalities in gait or aggressiveness are noticed, although there is a slight amount of irritation between the pads of his rear feet. A list of possible differentials include: epilepsy, pain caused be a musculoskeletal problem, skin irritation, a tumor of some kind, infectious disease, organ dysfunction, behavioral, or a combination of the above. To begin ruling out possibilities from this list, a complete blood count, blood chemistry, and thyroid test will be run to eliminate infectious disease and certain types of internal organ problems. An electrocardiogram will also be done to check heart function and a thorough musculoskeletal exam performed to rule out pain as a potential cause. Next week we will examine the results of these tests and the next course of action. Until then, good pet parenting and God Bless America. |
