By clearly identifying in detail how the dog is functioning, FAT helps highlight the dog’s needs, preferences, quirks and quality of life.

Disruption of function can be very mild or severe, and may occur in just one aspect or across many aspects.

FAT uses both normal and typical in describing behaviours. Understanding the difference is important.

Typical is the term used in FAT when assessing cognitive function.

Normal is used with physiological function, using established parameters which define “within normal limits” (WNL). Physiological functions contribute to and reflect health and well-being.

Deviations from normal limits can help identify the underlying physical problems. Early detection of significant signs is critical to monitoring a dog’s health.

FAT helps avoid the common cognitive error of labelling a behaviour as “normal” for that dog when in fact it is not normal behaviour and represents some degree of dysfunction.

Function – or disruption of function – is not a permanent state. FAT reflects the dog as he is, now. FAT profiles show an up-to date whole dog view.