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Follow a set procedure to examine the
animal ? there are few differences with other animals. |
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1. Make contact both vocally and physically. Assess the body condition. Check breathing rate | 2. Pigs like to be scratched particularly behind the ear and along the back | 3. Check the head of the pig for any discharges from the nose, eyes, mouth | 4. When handling the head watch that the pig does not try and bite |
5. Take the rectal temperature normal 39C (102.5F) | 6. Examine the external genitalia. Note the mucosa color | 7. Palpate the lumbar muscles of the pig | 8. Some pigs may allow abdominal palpation. |
9. Examine the mammary glands. Pigs also like to be rubbed. | 10. Look for any abnormalities to the abdomen and chest | 11. It may be possible to examine the legs starting at the hind legs and moving to the fore. Pigs do not like having their feet touched | |
12. Palpation of the limbs should start at the top and work down the limb |
13. Other examinations are possible after the initial examination is complete | ||
14. Examination of the feet may require additional restraint. If the animal is lying down examine feet first | 15. Collect any samples as required |