Under what circumstance would a complete orthopedic exam be performed?

A complete orthopedic exam is typically conducted when there is a specific concern regarding the dog's musculoskeletal system. This could include signs of pain, limping, or previous injuries that need to be assessed more thoroughly. Performing a comprehensive orthopedic evaluation under such circumstances allows the veterinarian to identify underlying issues that may not be visible during a more casual observation or routine exam.

On the other hand, routine check-ups generally do not necessitate a full orthopedic exam unless specific concerns are raised. If an owner requests an orthopedic assessment solely based on their observation without any clinical signs, this might not warrant a complete exam, as a targeted approach is often more efficient. Additionally, while vaccinations involve an examination for health status, they do not typically lead to a detailed orthopedic assessment unless the dog displays symptoms during that visit. Therefore, the focus on conducting a complete orthopedic exam when there is a reason to suspect musculoskeletal issues aligns with best practices in veterinary care.