A dog shaking its head

Veterinarian · Who you talk to: The owner

The dog shakes its head and scratches one ear. Ear disease was second on Nationwide's list for dogs.

What this case adds

Examine both ears as part of a full systematic exam, not only the one the owner points at.
Explain every finding to the owner as you go.

Critical fails

Jeopardizing the health and well-being of the animal through action or inaction: fatal flaw, zero for the station.
Handling the animal in an unsafe or inhumane way: penalties up to dismissal from the station.
Recording a finding that is not actually present: points are lost.
A correct treatment plan for a differential list that misses the right diagnosis: points are deducted.

The full checklist of this mold, step by step with its official sources: Consult: the owner's story, physical exam and diagnosis.

Sources

AVMA ECFVG, Manual of Administration for the Clinical Proficiency Examination, 2025 edition, Small Animal Medicine (SAM01) https://ebusiness.avma.org/Files/Downloads/ecfvg/Candidate_Moa.pdf
Nationwide, Most common conditions that prompt veterinary visits (data from more than 1.1 million insured pets) https://news.nationwide.com/032822-most-common-conditions-that-prompt-veterinary-visits/

Making Synapses is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by the AVMA, the ECFVG or Nationwide. ECFVG is a trademark of its owner and is named only to describe what this mold practices; always follow your veterinarian's guidance for your own pet.

Consult: the owner's story, physical exam and diagnosis