Preparing for a dog mobility veterinary visit

Build a short timeline

Write down when the change began, whether it was sudden or gradual, which activities have changed and whether the pattern comes and goes. Include previous injury, surgery or known orthopaedic history where relevant.

Capture ordinary movement

AAHA guidance recognises owner observations, home videos and activity monitoring as useful parts of pain assessment. A short recording of getting up, walking, turning or using steps may show movement that does not appear in the consultation room.

• Record the date and activity shown.
• Keep the pet moving naturally rather than provoking pain.
• Bring a complete medicine and supplement list.
• Bring existing imaging reports or records if available.

Let examination lead the decision

Cornell describes gait, posture, joint examination and, where appropriate, imaging as parts of osteoarthritis assessment. Similar visible changes can have different causes, so preparation should support examination rather than predetermine a diagnosis or plan.