Title: Weigh the animal.
Course: Small Animal Care II (18102-II) > Section: Performing Technical Functions

Weighing should include

- explaining the concept of body condition score (BCS)
- explaining reasons and techniques for weighing and measuring animals
- identifying the type of measurement system (e.g., metric, avoirdupois), scales, and tools needed
- transporting the animal to the scale, using techniques appropriate for the animal
- measuring the animal’s height and length as needed, using the selected measuring tool
- recording the data collected
- cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting scales.

Process/Skill Questions:

- When would a tabletop scale be used as opposed to a floor scale to weigh an animal?
- How should one measure the weight of a difficult cat that cannot be removed from its carrier?
- What situations require measuring the height/length of an animal?
- What situations require at least two people to measure the height/length of an animal?
- What situations require assistive technology beyond the measuring device necessary to measure an animal?
- How is weight important to nutrition and medical care?
- How does excess weight shorten a pet’s life and affect joint diseases, such as arthritis?