Ocean Animal Clinic Thermometer Instructions Taking a pet's temperature is one of the things pet owners least like to do. The information that it gives is often very helpful in determining if your pet is sick or in monitoring their health during times of illness. All you need is a rectal thermometer (the kind you use for babies), some vaseline, and a facial towel.     The name of the victim ...er pet  who volunteered for this series is being withheld due to the embarrassing nature of the photograph.
	These instructions are to be used in conjunction with the directions given by your veterinarian.  Administering treatments to your pet can lead to serious bite wounds and scratches.  If unsure of your pet, have someone at the clinic demonstrate these medication techniques.  Medicating your pet at home is done at your own risk.

  

  

With the snap of your wrist, shake the mercury column down below 95 degrees.

  

Dip the thermometer in a small amount of vaseline and gently insert about half way into pets anus.  Talking quietly to them often helps to calm them. Leave the thermometer in for 1 minute.

Remove the thermometer and wipe clean with a facial tissue.

Roll the thermometer until you see the mercury column. Then read the temperature on the scale.  Here the thermometer reads 102.2 degrees.