C115
Checking Hydration (Skin Tent)

The eye and socket should be evaluated. If the eye appears sunken, the animal is probably dehydrated. The skin above the eye can also be pinched, checking for a skin tent. This eye is normal, indicating proper hydration.

The loose skin on the side of the neck or chest is another area to check for a skin tent.

The skin above the eye and around the neck or chest should rapidly snap back and return to normal when released. If the skin remains raised or "tented," the animal is considered dehydrated. The kid in this picture is normal.

See page F145 for additional suggestions.