Fundamentals of Small Animal Surgery
Reviewed by Rebecca Davis Ball, DVM, MS, DACVS
Fundamentals of Small Animal Surgery consists of 20 chapters designed to provide the basics of surgical principles and techniques for beginning veterinarians or veterinary students. This textbook begins by describing preoperative surgical patient assessment and takes readers through the basics of anesthesia, including a step-by-step approach (in outline form) for anesthetizing small animal patients. The text includes topics on identification, care, and sterilization of surgical instruments; surgeon preparation; suture material; wound healing; surgical drains; and postoperative pain management. The text ends with a detailed pictorial of an ovariohysterectomy in a dog that includes > 200 color photographs of the surgical procedure, beginning with patient positioning and draping and concluding with skin closure. The attributes of this textbook include numerous color photographs and the author's adherence to the intended goal of providing the basic fundamentals of surgery and not attempting to be an all-inclusive surgical text. The addition of a chapter covering surgical castration would provide a more complete basic surgical introduction. This book would be a good addition to the collection of beginning veterinarians as well as veterinarians who wish to review and update their existing knowledge of this topic.—Fred Anthony Mann, Gheorghe M. Constantinescu, Hun-Young Yoon. 429 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Blackwell, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-0-7817-6118-5. 2011. Price $79.99.
BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Rehabilitation, Supportive and Palliative Care
Case Studies in Patient Management: Reviewed by Susanne K. Lauer, Dr med vet, DACVS
Palliative medicine is a field of expertise in small animal medicine that has long been neglected. The BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Rehabilitation, Supportive and Palliative Care: Case Studies in Patient Management provides valuable information for veterinarians confronted with the challenge of improving the quality of life in dogs and cats with chronic diseases that ultimately cannot be completely cured. The guide also provides ideas on how to decrease morbidity and enhance outcome in patients recovering from surgical interventions or neurologic disease. The book is divided into 2 sections. The first part of the book covers general principles of pain and fear management, nutrition, physical rehabilitation, and acupuncture. I was particularly intrigued by the introductory chapter that provides information on the ethical, emotional, and decision-making aspects of palliative medicine that are encountered daily in veterinary practice. Although most of the chapters on theoretical aspects are written extremely well, some of the technical explanations are not so easy to comprehend despite my familiarity with the subject. I particularly appreciated the effort of many authors to include evidence-based information in the chapters. Some of the recommendations may be of limited importance for North American readers because they are based on British regulations and drug availability. In general, the tables and figures are appropriate, but some of the photographs are not as helpful as they could have been.
The practical section reflects on clinical case scenarios involving dogs and cats with neurologic, orthopedic, neoplastic, cardiac, respiratory, urogenital, gastrointestinal, dental, ocular, and dermatologic disorders. After a brief case summary, all aspects introduced in the principles section are discussed with regard to the particular case. The main shortcoming of the manual is that the editors wanted to cover too many diseases within a single book. Thus, information is sometimes not complete and the reasoning not fully explained to readers. For example, I would have liked for the authors to provide information on how to decrease potential negative psychological effects of crate rest in a dog that underwent humeral fracture repair in the corresponding fear, stress, and conflict concerns section of the case study. I also would have liked a comment on how to prevent a dog that had to wear a tape muzzle for a prolonged period to allow healing of a mandibular fracture from pawing off the muzzle and how to ensure the least negative effect on quality of life. Overall, this is a well-organized manual that provides interesting information for small animal practitioners—Samantha Lindley, Penny Watson. 403 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Blackwell, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-1-905319-20-6. 2011. Price $130.00.
BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Reproduction and Neonatology (2nd edition)
Reviewed by Milan Hess, DVM, MS, DACT
The second edition of the BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Reproduction and Neonatology contains 21 chapters written by internationally recognized experts in the field of canine and feline reproduction. The chapters offer detailed information on normal and abnormal canine and feline reproductive physiology, breeding management, pregnancy, and parturition. In addition, state-of-the-art techniques used to address infertility, reproductive tract disease, and unwanted pregnancy are detailed. Compared with the previous edition, the information on breeding management, prevention of fertility, and neonatology has been expanded. In addition, a brief overview of biotechnological advances is provided.
The text is clearly written and interesting, with useful color photographs, charts, and graphs. The content is targeted primarily at veterinary practitioners or veterinary students with a current or developing interest in reproduction of dogs and cats. Although there is redundancy and minor disagreement among authors between chapters, the material is current as well as practical. For veterinarians practicing in the United States, the lack of availability of a number of the drugs discussed in the manual may be a source of frustration, but alternate suggestions are provided when possible.
As the title implies, this up-to-date manual is an informative and practical guide to canine and feline reproduction and neonatology. It would be a useful addition to the library of any practicing veterinarian.—Gary England, Angelika von Heimendahl. 230 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Blackwell, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-1-905319-19-0. 2011. Price $110.00.
Canine and Feline Nephrology and Urology (2nd edition)
Reviewed by Melissa S. Wallace, DVM, DACVIM
The knowledge and practice of veterinary nephrology and urology have made great strides since the first edition of Canine and Feline Nephrology and Urology was published in 1986. The second edition incorporates the most important recent advances without neglecting fundamental principles. Written for veterinary students and small animal practitioners, it is comprehensive enough to lay a solid foundation (ie, nothing is briefly covered), but concise enough to hold the interest of busy practitioners. Although not specifically intended for residents and board-certified specialists, many will find it a valuable resource for board preparation or review. Each subject is provided in an outline format, which breaks the material into manageable chunks. The actual content is written in complete sentences, which enhances readability and comprehension. The text is liberally interspersed with high-quality black-and-white photographs, tables, diagrams, and illustrations. This book provides thorough and appropriate coverage of all commonly encountered urinary tract disorders as well as information on rare syndromes. Currently accepted treatments and newer therapies that might prove useful are included. Each chapter has sections that are informative, interesting, and fun to read. Two of my favorite sections are Common Misconceptions and Frequently Asked Questions, the latter of which are often case-based material. The authors' approach generally represents the mainstream of current expert opinion, with a practical slant. A possibly controversial chapter, Nonobstructive Idiopathic or Interstitial Cystitis in Cats, is a must-read for every veterinarian who treats cats (or who owns a cat). If only 1 book on nephrology and urology can be purchased, this is an excellent choice and a good value.—Dennis J. Chew, Stephen P. DiBartola, Patricia A. Schenck. 526 pages; illustrated. Elsevier Saunders, 11830 Westline Industrial Dr, St Louis, MO 63146. ISBN 978-0-7216-8178-8. 2011. Price $89.95.
Domestic Animal Behavior for Veterinarians & Animal Scientists (5th edition)
Reviewed by Laurie Bergman, VMD, DACVB
Domestic Animal Behavior for Veterinarians & Animal Scientists, or Houpt as it is commonly referred to within the veterinary behavior community, has long been one of the core texts within the field. The textbook, now in its fifth edition, provides a sweeping, well-researched overview of the fundamental behaviors of common domestic species, including cats, cattle, dogs, horses, pigs, sheep, and goats. Drawing on more than 2,000 references (many of them primary-source references) ranging from the early part of the 20th century to within the last 2 to 3 years, this book provides information about behaviors of these species as well as an overview of how that information was gathered and built on. Given the comprehensive nature of the book, it would be easier to follow if each of the chapters used the same format in terms of consistently listing species-specific material in the same order.
Previous editions of this textbook have always provided readers with a fundamental understanding of aspects of behavior, such as communication, social structures, sexual behavior, and the development of behavior. This latest edition adds to that knowledge with an expanded section on cognition and learning and a new section on behavioral genetics. Because behavioral genetics is a new field, the coverage in this text raises more questions for future research than it provides answers, but it does give a good introduction to the field. Especially interesting is a review of different temperament tests in a variety of species.
For all of its strong points, readers should be aware that this is not a clinical textbook. If readers are looking for information about how to treat behavioral problems, especially in dogs and cats, the author clearly recommends that they look elsewhere. But if readers are looking to expand their knowledge of the how and why with regard to behaviors of the most commonly encountered species, this is a great launching pad.—Katherine A. Houpt. 393 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Black-well, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-0-8138-1676-0. 2011. Price $79.99.
Feline Emergency & Critical Care Medicine
Reviewed by George A. White, DVM, DACVECC
Feline Emergency and Critical Care Medicine is an excellent reference book on this topic. In fact, to my knowledge, it is the only emergency and critical care text that deals exclusively with cats. Throughout the book, the authors emphasize the challenges and unique differences between dogs and cats for the same disease processes. They provide great detail discussing the different clinical signs of cats in shock, compared with those of dogs, and the difference in the approach to fluid resuscitation for cats in shock. I am especially impressed with the chapter on managing thromboembolic disease secondary to heart disease. In this chapter, the authors provide details on the pros and cons of routine treatment protocols and discuss newer diagnostic and treatment options. The format and layout of the text are user-friendly and easy to follow. I especially like the Unique Features box at the beginning of each chapter that highlights the main learning points of that chapter. The photographs are of good quality, but some of the algorithm charts are a bit too busy. The instructional language in some parts of the book is weak. The word can is used when it would be more appropriate to use the stronger word should. In several places in the text, the authors suggest the use of a drug that is no longer available. I would also have liked the authors to provide a discussion of postobstruction diuresis in the chapter on urethral obstruction.
In my opinion, this book should have a place in the reference library of emergency and critical care facilities and be used as a study guide for anyone interested in feline emergency and critical care medicine. The price is within the range of similar texts.—Kenneth J. Drobatz, Merilee F. Costello. 656 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Blackwell, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-0-8138-2311-9. 2011. Price $94.99.
Feline Infectious Diseases: Learn, Revise, Reinforce (Self-Assessment Color Review Series)
Reviewed by Sandra L. Grover, DVM, DABVP
Feline Infectious Diseases: Learn, Revise, Reinforce (Self-Assessment Color Review Series) is the newest addition to the series and is a case-based overview of bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral diseases in cats. It is not designed to be an all-inclusive reference for infectious diseases in cats; rather, it provides an engaging format for review and reinforcement of clinical skills that will appeal to practicing veterinarians and veterinary students in clinical rotations. The case presentation format encourages readers to formulate their own diagnostic plan and differential diagnoses list. The detailed answers distill many facts and practical tips pertinent to managing infectious diseases in cats in a clinical or shelter situation. The book provides advice regarding prevention of disease spread, environmental control, and zoonotic potential as well as information on differential diagnoses, diagnostic testing, and clinical management. A useful list of case classifications is included at the beginning, which allows readers to review cases pertaining to specific pathogens or organ systems. Many high-quality pictures, including photographs of lesions, radiographs, and cytologic findings, enhance the quality of this book. I suggest that future revisions of the book include reference ranges with the laboratory values given in the body of each case, rather than listing the ranges at the end of the book. However, this is a minor inconvenience that does not detract from the usefulness of the book.—Katrin Hartmann, Julie K. Levy. 224 pages; illustrated. Manson Publishing/Thieme Publishing. 333 Seventh Ave, New York, NY 10001. ISBN 978-1-84076-099-6. 2011. Price $40.99.
Cattle and Sheep Medicine: Learn, Revise, Reinforce (Self-Assessment Colour Review Series)
Reviewed by Marjorie S. Gill, DVM, MS, DABVP
Cattle and Sheep Medicine: Learn, Revise, Reinforce (Self-Assessment Colour Review Series) is a long-overdue compilation of clinical cases set in a problem-based learning format. Each case in the book is accompanied by a high-quality illustration. The textbook includes a nice mixture of cases involving cattle and sheep and encompasses a wide variety of medical and surgical conditions seen in these species. It covers all systems but in a random order as would be encountered in a practice situation. Each case includes a brief history, description of clinical signs, and a set of clinical findings followed by a series of questions intended to result in lists of differential diagnoses (most likely differential diagnosis is listed first), further diagnostic tests to perform, and treatment and control or prevention plans. Study of each case results in expanded evaluation of the various rule-outs and their associated diagnostic tests, treatment, and prevention, which serves to broaden the scope of review and learning by readers. For these reasons, the book should be particularly useful for veterinary students and veterinarians studying for licensing examinations or even board-certification examinations. It should also be an invaluable teaching tool for clinical instruction purposes. In some cases, the book is more representative of regional diseases, conditions, and breeds, but it will still prove to be extremely useful in most areas of the world where cattle and sheep are raised.—Philip R. Scott. 240 pages; illustrated. Manson Publishing/Thieme Publishing, 333 Seventh Ave, New York, NY 10001. ISBN 978-1-84076-126-9. 2010. Price $39.00.
Veterinary Echocardiography (2nd edition)
Reviewed by Leigh Griffiths, VetMB, PhD, DACVIM
Veterinary Echocardiography has been the standard text in the field since the publication of the first edition in 1998. The second edition of this textbook represents an outstanding update to the first edition. The second edition is not simply a superficial update; rather, it is a complete revision of the original publication. Although readers will find numerous similarities with the first edition, the order of the text, image quality, and clarity of the text have been extensively revised and improved. Most importantly, throughout every chapter in the second edition, there are large sections that are entirely new, covering a wide range of topics such as harmonic imaging, tissue Doppler imaging, quantitative assessment of valvular insufficiency, and assessment of diastolic function. The author's interpretation of relevant literature is consistently accurate and pertinent. Additionally, the information provided in the second edition is extremely up-to-date and covers topics that are on the forefront of current veterinary echocardiography. The price represents an excellent value, especially considering the high quality of image reproduction and numerous color images provided. The author's stated goal is to provide a text that can serve as a comprehensive reference and instruction manual for echocardiographers of all experience levels. I am pleased to report that the author has admirably achieved this goal.—June A. Boon. 610 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Blackwell, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-0-8138-2385-0. 2011. Price $149.99.
Fenner's Veterinary Virology (4th edition)
Reviewed by James F. Evermann, PhD
The fourth edition of Fenner's Veterinary Virology is a timely update of viral infections of veterinary importance. The book has some notable additions, which include increased characterization of particular viruses on the basis of their molecular biological properties and increased emphasis on zoonotic virology and viral infections of aquatic, avian, and laboratory animals. This book serves as a good introductory text for students in the veterinary curriculum as well as for graduate students in microbiology and public health. It also would serve as a good reference book for biologists studying microbial ecology and for scientists drafting policies pertaining to animal viruses.
Similar to the third edition, this fourth edition is divided into 2 major parts: Principles of Veterinary and Zoonotic Virology and Veterinary and Zoonotic Viruses. The latter is a concise description of the major viral families that affect humans and other animals.
The chapters in Principles of Veterinary and Zoonotic Virology are clearly written and appropriately illustrated. In particular, the chapters on Antiviral Immunity, Laboratory Diagnosis, and Epidemiology and Control are most instructive. For example, the chapter on Epidemiology and Control (chapter 6) includes several important tables that list common modes for transmission of viruses, modes for survival of viruses in nature (eg, environmental, carriers, and multihost range), and important new, emerging, and reemerging animal and zoonotic viruses.
Veterinary and Zoonotic Viruses provides a thorough overview of the diversity of viruses that affect animals and those viruses capable of crossing from one animal species to another or from animals to humans. The chapters are well organized, and each has a strong introduction that reviews the historical and clinical relevancy of the virus. The Clinical Features and Epidemiology portion of the chapters is appropriately illustrated with gross and microscopic images that help readers identify particular characteristics of the effects of the viral infection disease on host animals.
Although references typically are not listed at the end of each book chapter, such a list of selected readings or specific review articles would add to this textbook and increase the usefulness as a resource-reference book.
As indicated in the dedication, the fourth edition of Fenner's Veterinary Virology strives to provide a global presentation of veterinary and zoonotic virology. Because virology is an interdisciplinary science that encompasses areas (namely host immunity and response to viral infections, the ecology and evolution of viral infections, and the value of monitoring viral infections and disease in animal populations) described in the 2 major parts of the book, this book certainly meets that objective.—N. James MacLachlan, Edward J. Dubovi. 507 pages; illustrated. Academic Press, 30 Corporate Dr, Ste 400, Burlington, MA 01803. ISBN 978-0-12-375158-4. 2011. Price $125.00.
Companion Animal Zoonoses
Reviewed by George E. Moore, DVM, PhD, DACVPM, DACVIM
Companion Animal Zoonoses, coauthored by a veterinarian and a physician, provides a thorough compilation of zoonotic diseases of pets, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, pocket pet mammals, and small reptiles. Diseases are described in chapters on the basis of organism category (ie, parasitic, bacterial, viral, or fungal). Information for each disease is provided in a similar format, which includes etiology, geographic distribution, and clinical signs, diagnosis, and management in pet animals and humans. Prevention is also addressed for each disease because a major emphasis of the authors is infection control measures to reduce pathogen transmission in households and veterinary hospitals. Two additional chapters address pet bites and the disease risks pets pose to immunocompromised people. The authors are quite thorough, and admittedly slightly liberal, in their definition of zoonoses to provide risk information to readers. A strength of the book is that it is extensively referenced. Although perhaps slightly high priced and too narrow in scope to be a required textbook for veterinary students, this book would serve as an excellent reference for any small animal veterinarian or public health officer.—J. Scott Weese, Martha B. Fulford. 319 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Blackwell, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-0-8138-1964-8. 2011. Price $124.99.
Medical Care of Turtles & Tortoises: Diagnosis, Surgery, Pathology, Parasitology
Reviewed by Nicholas Saint-Erne, DVM
Medical Care of Turtles & Tortoises: Diagnosis, Surgery, Pathology, Parasitology is a practical reference with features that veterinarians and bibliophiles love: hardcover with quality glossy paper, > 900 color photographs along with the pertinent text (24 color photos and 7 black-and-white line drawings in the first chapter, which is only 19 pages long), parenthetical references at the end of the appropriate sentence or paragraph, and a list of references at the end of each chapter and even some of the subchapters. Photographs include healthy and diseased animals, the natural environments and artificial habitats for the various species, and images of proper handling techniques, clinical procedures, parasites, tissues, radiographs, and histologic slides. Most of the photographs were taken by the authors.
The book contains 7 chapters and an appendix. The chapters competently describe the medical procedures necessary to care for turtles and tortoises in a clinical setting, excluding the medical care of sea turtles. Each chapter contains numbered subchapters. For example, Chapter 3: General Chelonian Medicine includes sub-chapter 3.5 Laboratory Testing, which subsequently is categorized to the level of 3.5.2.3.2 White Blood Cells. This is helpful for using the table of contents to find specific topics because, unfortunately, there is no index. There are the obligatory mistakes in typesetting, but overall it is well written and Dr. Stremme has done veterinarians a good service in translating this work into English.
The appendix comprises 7 charts and lists. Appendix 8.1 is a list of all species of turtles and tortoises and their adult size (maximum lengths in centimeters) compiled by a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature/Species Survival Commission Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group. Appendix 8.2 lists clutch sizes and egg incubation temperatures for common chelonians. Appendix 8.3 contains recipes for creating gel diets. Appendix 8.4 is the compiled bibliography from all of the references in the previous chapters listed alphabetically by author. The bibliography consists of 32 pages containing > 600 references, most of which are from the past decade, although a few are older citations (eg, the 1970s and even a textbook from 1932). Most references are in English, but some are from German or Czech publications. Appendix 8.6 is a formulary.
Medical Care of Turtles & Tortoises: Diagnosis, Surgery, Pathology, Parasitology provides a deeper look into chelonian medicine than other comparably priced textbooks. This book is recommended for all veterinarians who have the opportunity to treat turtles and tortoises, which are increasing in number as household pets.—Jan HnÃzdo, Nikola Pantchev with JiÅ™i Zych, OndÅ™ej Hes. Translated, Donald W. Stremme. 559 pages; illustrated. Edition Chimaira, Eric Thiss Zoo Book Sales, PO Box 405, Lanesboro, MN 55949. ISBN 978-3-89973-493-5. 2011. Price $188.00.
Diagnostic Imaging of Exotic Pets: Birds, Small Mammals, Reptiles
Reviewed by Sam Silverman, DVM, PhD, DACVR
Diagnostic Imaging of Exotic Pets: Birds, Small Mammals, Reptiles is a large-format textbook with an extensive variety of high-quality images. The book is divided into avian, small mammal, and reptile sections. Each section includes information on diagnostic radiology, ultrasonography, and computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The text is unique in its inclusion of these species and diagnostic modalities. The discussions rely heavily on the vast clinical experience of the authors. Bibliographic references are minimal.
Excellent radiographic and ultrasonographic images are provided throughout the text. The variety of images is commendable, but annotations are often limited. There are minor discrepancies throughout the text as a result of translation, and the descriptions of the radiographic and ultrasonographic findings are often abbreviated. Generalized terms are routinely used in place of standard ultrasonographic and radiographic terms. Although this makes it easy to read, more concise descriptions would be helpful. Little information is provided on the systematic formulation of differential diagnoses based on the radiographic findings.
The cardiac section for small mammals is excellent. The section includes extensive tables of echocardio-graphic values and high-quality echo cardiogram images. The sections on avian and reptile radiology underem-phasize the diagnosis of respiratory and skeletal diseases. Examples of pneumonia and osteomyelitis are provided, but chronicity and severity of the lesions are not discussed. The special procedure sections are informative but of variable detail. The digestive tract section provides information on transit times for contrast medium that are not routinely included in other texts. Specific details of urographic examination techniques are lacking. It is stated that radiographic contrast medium evaluations of the urinary tract can be informative, but details (dose of contrast agent, injection site, and exposure time) are not provided. Discussions often summarize the experience of the authors and fail to provide sufficient detail or references. It is stated that ultrasound-guided liver biopsy specimens can be readily obtained, but the examination technique is not complete. The reptile section contains ultrasonographic images that are difficult to find elsewhere. The computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging information is relatively abbreviated but does serve as an introduction for clinicians.
Discounting the deficiencies in the generalization of terms and detailed descriptions of images, this text contains a plethora of images that will be invaluable to veterinarians involved with primary care and diagnostic imaging of these species. The inclusion of the 3 species groups and all diagnostic modalities is unique and admirable. The practical discussions of the illustrated images adequately convey information that will be clinically useful. Therefore, I highly recommended this textbook for inclusion in the libraries of veterinarians treating birds, small mammals, and reptiles. The high quality of reproductions and wealth of information justify its cost.—Maria-Elisabeth Krautwald-Junghanns, Michael Pees, Sven Reese, Thomas Tully. 453 pages; illustrated. Schlütersche Verlagsgesellschaft/Thieme Medical Publishers, 333 Seventh Ave, New York, NY 10001. ISBN 978-3-89993-049-8. 2011. Price $240.00.
Laboratory Rat: Procedural Techniques
Reviewed by Laura J. Tambrallo, DVM, MS, DACLAM
Laboratory Rat: Procedural Techniques consists of 2 sections. The first follows the DVD, and the second is a summary of the procedures demonstrated in the DVD and is complete with excellent photographs and a few schematics. Following the 2 main sections are 3 appendices that contain data for the species, including biology, husbandry, sexing and breeding, identification, hematology, and blood volume collection guidelines. Some common diseases and their prevention are discussed in addition to signs of pain and distress.
The procedures demonstrated in the DVD include techniques for safe restraint of rats, injection sites (IP, SC, and IV in the jugular and coccygeal veins), sites for vascular puncture (pedal vein, saphenous vein, and coccygeal artery), oral gavage, and methods for identification (such as ear notches or tags). These are the most basic techniques that are currently used in research laboratories, so it is important that anyone attempting to use rats in research become proficient in these procedures before attempting more difficult procedures. This information makes this a valuable manual that can be used on many levels, from veterinary technicians to principal investigators to veterinary students to veterinarians in practice. The DVD is professionally recorded and is easy to follow. The soft acoustic guitar music that accompanies the text preceding the voice-over is soothing and not distracting. The manual comprises only 80 pages, including appendices, so it can be completed in a relatively brief period. This manual is an excellent resource for those who work with rodents in research settings as well as for practitioners who treat pocket pets.—John J. Bogdanske, Scott Hubbard-Van Stelle, Margaret Rankin Riley, Beth M. Schiffman. 80 pages with DVD; illustrated. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 6000 Broken Sound Pkwy NW, Ste 300, Boca Raton, FL 33487. ISBN 978-1-4398-5044-2. 2011. Price $59.95.
Hematology Techniques & Concepts for Veterinary Technicians (2nd edition)
Reviewed by Craig A. Thompson, DVM, DACVP
The second edition of Hematology Techniques & Concepts for Veterinary Technicians is a short, compact book that can be best described as sporadic. This description is evident throughout the book, starting with the contents. It is divided into 15 relatively brief chapters, which makes it easily digestible; however, the chapters, and thus the material, are somewhat haphazardly selected. Although areas such as blood collection, making and staining blood smears, laboratory methods, and others are well conceived and germane, it seems unusual to me to also see chapters on topics such as an introduction to the immune system and collection and handling of cytologic samples. Each chapter contains key concepts and review questions, which are useful in highlighting the most important features. Another prominent area of inconsistency is in the diagrams, photographs, and photomicrographs. Although there are numerous images that are clear and useful, many are out of focus, not illustrative, labeled incorrectly, or not useful. Similarly, the book is full of important information, such as techniques, blood smear evaluation, erythrocyte morphology, sources of error for numerous tests, and leukocyte kinetics; but lack of information on CSF, variations in the coverage of species, and rare incorrect information can also be found, which is of limited or uncertain utility to veterinary technicians. The use of the defunct name Hemobartonella spp is an example of this inconsistent or incorrect information. In total, the number of positives and negatives is approximately equal, which limits use of this book as a hematology text for veterinary technicians.—Gregg L. Voigt, Shannon L. Swist. 187 pages; illustrated. Wiley-Blackw ell, 2121 State Ave, Ames, IA 50014. ISBN 978-0-8138-1456-8. 2011. Price $54.99.
Secrets to Growing Your Veterinary Practice in the New Economy
Reviewed by Donna L. Harris, DVM, MBA
Everyone in private practice is looking for ways to navigate these challenging economic times. Secrets to Growing Your Veterinary Practice in the New Economy is a small, easy-to-read book that focuses on the marketing aspect of small animal practice.
The authors state that veterinary practice is not a commodity and that a client's understanding of this belief lies in a practice's ability to educate them. The book builds a case for the importance of an aggressive and continuous marketing effort to educate clients and serves as a catalyst for practice growth. It challenges readers to be entrepreneurial veterinarians, not just practitioners.
The book explains various aspects of marketing that include, but are not limited to, direct response marketing, direct mail, referral programs, and websites (including social media outlets). The authors briefly offer information on these types of programs (and others) and explain how they believe these activities would increase revenue via new clients, client visits, client retention, or client revenue. There are additional suggestions for managing an aggressive marketing program system within a busy practice.
Although a few of the marketing concepts in the book may be outside the comfort zone of some veterinarians, it does provide good basic information on less commonly used (in veterinary medicine) marketing techniques, which may challenge the thinking of some practitioners. It is easy to read with many short chapters.—Steve Maughan, Dean Biggs. 248 pages; illustrated. Veterinary Practice Profits, 1525 International Pkwy, Ste 4001, Heathrow, FL 32746. ISBN 978-0-1456366919. 2011. Price $47.00.
