Review by Nanette Walker Smith, M.Ed., RVT, CVT, LVT (Click on stars for an explanation)

You may purchase this book in the VIN store.

As a credentialed veterinary technician for almost 20 years I was ecstatic to review the most recent edition of the Saunder's Veterinary Dictionary; the previous edition is well worn and is the closest reference on my desk. This new edition is an even larger paperback and is very heavy so definitely not a pocket companion, however its contents have some wonderful improvements over previous editions. The authors have utilized a large complement of specialists in their fields to assist in this publication, adding to the credibility.

The introduction includes a 'how to use' section which guides the user in such a way as to maximize the benefits of the book. The body has many new features including color tabs to denote the 26 lettered sections (worth the new edition alone) and new color as well as black and white pictures and graphics gracing the text every few pages. The pictures are randomly placed with some being very helpful for the visualization of conditions or diagnoses. The typeface has also changed to a larger font with clearer text (welcomed for these aging eyes) and a slight indentation of related text for easy focus on major words and descriptions. The appendices are almost as valuable as the body. They cover a multitude of quick reference items. Laboratory Services covers the blood and fluid components of several species and includes elements, measures, temperatures, blood types, and animal viruses. My only warning on this huge appendix is that attention to the table of contents at the front of the book is the easiest way to find the section of interest quickly. The Anatomy Appendix lists information about all the common arteries, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles (including insertion, origin, innervation, and other notes), nerves, and veins; each in their own table oriented from cranial to caudal. The clinical section discusses subjects such as mastitis, estrous, dentition, and taxonomy/gender/young terms, has a body surfaces chart, lists venomous snakes, and covers aquaculture and zoonotic diseases. The final section, Veterinary Professional Directory, is completely for the veterinarian. This section covers international veterinary schools, veterinary degrees worldwide, and related organizations and programs. It is unfortunate that the authors have neglected the entire veterinary support staff by not at least listing educational programs as well as professional organizations in a section for veterinary technicians, practice managers, and staff. Since the introduction advocates the use of the text for the entire veterinary staff, this oversight was disappointing.

Although I am very pleased with the new edition and have started using it extensively, there are some very important terms missing from the definitions. Words which are commonly used in practice and would be essential for inclusion were found missing almost immediately such as 'vaccutainer' and 'culturette'. I believe this text is and should be the most primary text in a practice, available as a reference for all staff, including veterinarians, to use at anytime. Even though there are some areas found to be somewhat lacking, the text is still listed at the top of my highly recommended texts for veterinary technician students.

Published: 2007 Elsevier Health, ISBN 9780702027888