In the assessment phase, the focus is on which aspect of the animal?

• A. The animal’s dietary needs
• B. What the animal can do or not do by itself
• C. The cost of care
• D. The owner’s satisfaction

Answer: (B)

In the assessment phase, you’re focusing on the animal’s functional status—the things the animal can do by itself and where it may need help. This means observing and noting mobility, self-care abilities (like feeding or grooming), responses to handling or pain, energy levels, and any limitations. Establishing this baseline helps you plan appropriate care to support independence, comfort, and safety.

Dietary needs belong to nutrition assessment, not the core functional assessment. Costs of care and owner satisfaction are important for planning and communication with the client, but they don’t reflect the animal’s current functional status and clinical needs.