Review by Kathy Lyon 
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Even though there is already a review for this book on VIN (a VSPN (technician) review), the recent release of another ferret book prompts this review as a reminder that there is a selection of books on this topic.
Carpenter and Quesenberry have a long history in ferret medicine going back to that period when ferrets first seemed to be flooding the pet market. Carpenter and Quesenberry, along with many of the authors included in this book were included in the pioneer group investigating the diseases of the ferret. The first two editions of this book were ground breaking in their presentation. This third edition is no less innovative.
The list of contributors reflects the scope of veterinarians dedicated to research and development of ferret medicine. Most have years of experience with ferrets, having presented innovative ferret research and treatment at many conferences over the years. Kudos to the co-authors for including this august panel.
The first chapter on Basic Anatomy, Physiology, and Husbandry of Ferrets is an essential part of the education on these animals. Ferrets are still prohibited in some states, so many practitioners may not be as familiar with this species they are with dogs and cats. The illustrations outlining positional aspects of the internal organs are useful in reading radiographs and making appropriate comparisons. The remainder of the first section covers the Basic Approach to Veterinary Care, Gastrointestinal Disease, UTI's Cardiovascular Disease, Respiratory Disease, Endocrine Disease, Neoplasia, Dermatology, Musculoskeletal and Neurologic Disease, and Soft Tissue Surgery. The first page of each section presents a short Table of Contents as a separate chart to give the reader a review of what is contained in each section.
The section on rabbits follows pretty much the same format as the section on ferrets. The interested veterinarian will find that many rabbit owners, particularly new owners, have little knowledge of the inner workings of a rabbit and may need some basic education, particularly on the digestive system, from proper diet to elimination process (cecotropes) and the continual growth of incisors. It helps if the veterinarian has had the same education first.
The chapter on Disorders of the Reproductive/Urinary Systems is a must-read as these are more common in rabbits, and the presentation and follow-up should be familiar to the clinician treating house rabbits or commercial meat farm rabbits.
Guinea pigs and chinchillas follow with the now familiar format, the review of the contents, the basics, and the diseases. These two species are grouped together due to their many similarities. Of particular interest, the section on urogenital disorders and reproduction issues are essential reading before that first case arrives at the clinic.
Small rodents follow with a similar format. This chapter covers rats, mice, hamsters, and gerbils. The bulk of the information is confined to rats, hamsters, and mice. The section on Soft Tissue Surgery should be read well ahead of need, and the information committed to memory as you will be benefitting from the experience of one of the top soft-tissue surgeons in the Country.
Assorted small mammals comprise Section Five, including sugar gliders and African hedgehogs. These are both unusual little animals and warrant a good look at these short but informative chapters. The information is every bit as important as that of the more common/popular small mammal pets, however, less work has been done on these species and the highlights of disease and husbandry are well covered.
Section six covers Anesthesia, Analgesia, and Sedation of Small Mammals. Since the information is somewhat interchangeable between most of these little guys, the chapter is presented separately rather than as a repeated topic throughout the sections. Species differences are explained where applicable. Analgesic tables illustrate the dosages for each species. A separate table is shown for application in dental procedures. Orthopedics are discussed including tables for the species included in this book, plus numerous radiographs are shown as before/after.
Diagnostic and surgical endoscopy is combined in one chapter with species-defined tools and cannula specifications. This chapter is well illustrated with color photos for reference when using the endoscope. Thee is a similar abundance of illustrations of radiographs, CT scans and fluoroscopic views.
Cytology and Hematology is likewise well-illustrated with color microscopic and EM views
Ophthalmologic disease is combined as relates to species of small mammals with a review of the orbit and nasolacrimal paths. Some clear photos of eye injuries and disease are shown.
Critical/emergency care is outlined, providing material for the clinician to prepare a series of handouts for clients on first visits. It helps if they are aware of the pitfalls of small animal ownership and how to stabilize without harm until they can get the animal to the clinic.
Two short chapters, Behavior and Zoonotic Diseases close this volume, followed by a useful formulary.
All things considered, this is a valuable book for any clinic library. With the ever-increasing need to expand your client base, having these mammals to include in your repertoire will be of extreme value.
Publisher:Elsevier, Soft cover, color illustrations, 596 pages (2012)
ISBN: 978-1-4160-6621-7
VIN Bookstore: Currently Unavailable