Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

What is the normal capillary refill time (CRT) for a dog like Buddy if it is recorded as 1 second?

1. Normal

2. Abnormal

3. Elevated

4. Reduced

The correct answer is: Normal

Capillary refill time (CRT) is an important indicator of circulatory health and the adequacy of blood flow to the tissues. In dogs, a normal CRT is typically considered to be around 1 to 2 seconds when assessed by pressing on the gum or other mucosal surfaces. When Buddy's CRT is recorded as 1 second, this falls within the normal range, indicating that his tissues are receiving an adequate blood supply and oxygenation. A normal CRT suggests that there are no signs of shock, dehydration, or other circulatory issues, as a prolonged CRT may indicate poor perfusion or other health problems. Therefore, a CRT of 1 second for Buddy is indeed normal, confirming that he is in good health from a circulatory standpoint.