Review by Kathy Lyon (Click on stars for an explanation)

This book is out of print.

This is a handy reference guide for technicians to assist in walking through a case, checking each step of recommended treatment. The book contains anatomical drawings and photos to illustrate various physical points and treatment techniques, and important procedure information is highlighted in a shaded box.

The book is designed to lie open-faced on a counter for no-hands reading.

There are charts that relate to healthy animals (calorie requirements, etc.) as well as charts to check off for treatments. There is a hematology section in color for slide comparisons.

Fully revised and updated, this new edition features an improved layout for even faster access to information. The charts and tables throughout are designed for easy reference, enabling technicians to quickly apply their knowledge and skills to the daily clinical setting. Covering all aspects of the veterinary technician’s duties in the care of dogs and cats, from the basics of physical examinations to specialized nursing and technical procedures.

I would suggest that this book not be limited to technicians. A smart veterinarian would use it as a memory-jogger and a base from which to make checkoff charts for patients.

• Section 1: Anatomy
  • Chapter 1: Anatomy
• Section 2: Preventative Care
  • Chapter 2: Physical Exam and Vaccinations
  • Chapter 3: Nutrition
• Section 3: Diagnostic Skills
  • Chapter 4: Laboratory
  • Chapter 5: Imaging
  • Chapter 6: General Medicine
  • Chapter 7: Emergency Medicine
• Section 4: Patient Care Skills
  • Chapter 8: Patient Care
  • Chapter 9: Pain Management
  • Chapter 10: Wound Care
  • Chapter 11: Parenteral Nutrition
  • Chapter 12: Medical Procedures
• Section 5: Anesthesia and Anesthetic Procedures
  • Chapter 13: Anesthesia
  • Chapter 14: Dentistry
  • Chapter 15: Surgery
• Section 6: CAVM and Pharmacology
  • Chapter 16: Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine
  • Chapter 17: Pharmacology
• Appendix
• Glossary
• Abbreviations
• Bibliography
• Index

Blackwell Publishers (2008).

The book is 8.5 x 11", but done in a landscape format. With 691 pages, 194 illustrations.

This book is a true bargain for technicians and a valuable reference for a clinician.

ISBN: 978-0-8138-1204-5.