ABSTRACT
Diagnostic procedures Physical examination Indications A thorough physical examination is indicated with any horse or foal presenting on an emergency basis with lameness or a gait abnormality.
Technique Heart rate, mucous membrane color and moistness, CRT, jugular refill time, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature should be obtained. Intestinal borborygmi, extremity temperature, and digital pulses should be evaluated. The level of pain and cardiovascular status of the horse is determined based on this initial examination. Basic laboratory data including PCV, TPP, leukocyte count, fibrinogen or serum amyloid A (SAA), and creatinine concentrations is recommended.
