Measurement of the back fat layer in beagles for estimation of obesity using two-dimensional ultrasonography

The purpose of this study was to select a suitable location for measuring t he subcutaneous fat layer in beagles as an indicator of excess body fat dep osition. A location suitable for such a measurement should meet five condit ions - it should be easy to: (1) apply the probe, (2) detect the anatomical character of the measurement location, and (3) obtain a reproducible ultra sonogram at all times. In addition, the fat layer should be (4) thick enoug h for measuring, and (5) located in an area that varies markedly with the d egree of obesity. Ultrasonograms made in the transverse planes on the top o f the spinous process of the sixth lumbar vertebra, the seventh lumbar vert ebra and the first sacral vertebra were found to be suitable for measuremen t. The depth and area of the back fat layer at these locations were closely related to the degree of obesity.