CLINICAL SKILLS
What is the normal temperature range for dogs?
99.5–102.5°F (approx.)
What nutrient is the primary energy source for most mammals?
Carbohydrates
What common parasite is diagnosed with a fecal flotation?
Roundworms (or nematodes)
What organ filters blood to remove waste and produces urine?
Kidney
What is the degree you receive after graduating vet school?
DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine)
What does “TPR” stand for in a physical exam?
Temperature, Pulse, Respiration
What mineral is most important for healthy bones and teeth?
Calcium
What ectoparasite causes “flea dirt”?
Fleas
What is the scientific term for the “ball-and-socket” joint of the hip?
Coxofemoral joint
How many years does vet school typically take in the U.S.?
Four years
Name one common vein used for venipuncture in dogs.
Cephalic, jugular, or saphenous vein (any one)
Cats require this amino acid in their diet because they cannot synthesize enough of it.
Taurine
Heartworm is transmitted by which type of insect?
Mosquitoes
Which part of the brain controls balance and coordination?
Cerebellum
What standardized test used to be required for vet school applications?
GRE
In CPR for animals, what does the acronym CAB stand for?
Circulation, Airway, Breathing
Name one clinical sign of protein deficiency.
Weight loss, poor coat, muscle wasting (any one)
Name the parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis (infection spread through contact with cat feces, eating undercooked meat, or contaminated food and water).
Toxoplasma gondii
Name the structure that carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart.
Pulmonary vein
Which AVMA-accredited vet school is located in the Caribbean?
St. George’s University or Ross University
Describe the difference between a vaccine booster and a titer.
Booster = additional vaccine dose to maintain immunity; Titer = blood test measuring antibody levels
What is the primary function of the rumen’s microbial population?
To ferment and break down cellulose/fiber into volatile fatty acids (VFAs) for energy.
What is the difference between a definitive host and an intermediate host?
Definitive host = parasite reaches sexual maturity; Intermediate host = parasite develops but does not reach sexual maturity
What is the difference between the axial and appendicular skeleton?
Axial = skull, vertebrae, ribs; Appendicular = limbs and girdles
In most vet schools, what is the name of the student role during clinical rotations where you take primary responsibility for cases under supervision?
Student clinician (or “clinical student”/“clinical-year student”)