Intervention Criteria Sheet
Steps:
1. Determine the severity of abnormalities seen, using the Severity Table below.
2. Contact the AFM or AWO for advice if appropriate or required.
3. Take action in accordance with the Intervention Criteria below.
Intervention Criteria
Criteria are based on the severity of signs, as classified by the table below:
Observations (based on the Severity Action required
Table below)
None
Normal ( on monitoring sheet)
1 or more “mild to moderate” signs
(based on below)
Increase frequency of observations to twice daily (seek AFM/AWO
advice where appropriate so that treatment and care can be given)
1 or more “severe” signs (based on
below)
Euthanasia. If in doubt, seek second opinion from AFM/AWO.
Severity Table
Appearance
Weight changes
Behaviour,
Activity,
response to
provocation
Altered
respiratory
pattern/depth
Other signs
Mild to Moderate
Slight to moderate piloerection with no
dehydration (skin tenting); slight evidence
of decreased grooming.
Slight to moderate weight decrease
(5-15% compared to weight at start of
experiment)
Subdued but responsive, decreased
alertness, decreased interaction with
peers.
Severe
Piloerection with clear evidence of
dehydration (skin tenting); poor coat
condition; not grooming; hunched.
Significant weight decrease (>15%
compared to weight at start of
experiment)
Lethargic/dull; unresponsive or minimally
responsive to activity and provocation.
Very slightly altered rate and depth of
Obviously altered rate and depth of
respiration, without other signs consistent respiration; may be accompanied by signs
with pain or distress
consistent with pain or distress
Seek AFM/AWO advice re: appropriate action
or euthanase if animal is in moderate or severe pain or distress