Which vital sign is often measured using a thermometer?

Body temperature is a vital sign that is precisely measured using a thermometer. This measurement is crucial in veterinary practice because it helps assess an animal's health status. A normal body temperature indicates that the animal is likely healthy, whereas an elevated or decreased temperature could suggest illness or other medical conditions.

Other vital signs, like respiratory rate and heart rate, are assessed through observation and palpation rather than with a thermometer. Blood pressure, on the other hand, requires specialized equipment dedicated to measuring the force of blood against the walls of the arteries, which is not performed with a conventional thermometer. Each vital sign has its specific tools and methods for assessment, making the distinction between them important for accurate evaluations of an animal's health.