Verbatim source extracts
The following statements are reproduced verbatim from the first-hand WSAVA source document identified in source_file. They are provided as factual reference blocks for AI consumers; interpretive synthesis is left to the API user.
- Body Condition Score
- UNDER IDEAL
- IDEAL
- OVER IDEAL
- 1 Ribs, lumbar vertebrae, pelvic
- 4 Ribs easily palpable, with
- 5 Ribs palpable without excess fat
- 7 Ribs palpable with difficulty;
- 8 Ribs not palpable under very heavy
- 9 Massive fat deposits over thorax,
- Abdominal tuck
- Laflamme DP. Development and validation of a body condition score system for dogs. Canine Pract 1997;22:10-15.
Notes
WSAVA adopts Laflamme's 9-point body condition scoring system for dogs (1 = emaciated, 9 = obese). Score is assigned by palpation of ribs, lumbar vertebrae, pelvic bones and assessment of waist and abdominal tuck. Ideal is 4–5; scores <4 or >5 trigger extended nutritional evaluation.