This is the most recent edition of the core textbook used by veterinary nursing students in the U.K. It is analogous to the McCurnin’s Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians that is currently used by veterinary technology students in the U.S.
This textbook is meant to be comprehensive, covering all of the material that a student veterinary nurse will be responsible for. There are twenty-five chapters, all of which contain information useful to veterinary nurses and technicians. The first two chapters (Professional responsibilities, regulation, and the ethics of veterinary nursing; Principles of health and safety) do focus on regulations and legislation specific to the U.K., but also cover general principles, so readers outside of the U.K. will still benefit from reading and reviewing these chapters.
The format of the book makes for very easy reading. It is large at 8.3 x 11.7 inches and the text is broken up by many tables, lists, diagrams and photos, as well as large headings and subheadings for the material. There are many high-quality color photographs, clearly demonstrating procedures (such as IV catheter placement in a rat) or objects (such as surgical instruments). I am frequently disappointed in the quality of photos in veterinary technician textbooks, so it is exciting to see so many good pictures in one place. The philosophy of the authors is clearly progressive, as demonstrated in the discussions of animal welfare and ethics, restraint, behavior and training principles, and analgesia and serves as a model of the highest standards of veterinary care.
Most chapters address primarily dogs and cats, secondarily exotic pets (small mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish, even invertebrates) and some chapters address equine procedures. The 5th edition is the first to include equine care with equine subjects covered including anesthesia, nursing, husbandry, anatomy, nutrition, reproduction and radiography.
For students, there are also learning objectives at the beginning of each chapter, self-assessment questions at the end of each chapter, and references for further reading. Additionally there are appendices for study skills, personal and professional development. The only thing missing is a companion CD/DVD, workbook or online content. I have become accustomed to having this included with veterinary technology textbooks. Nonetheless, I am very impressed by this textbook and highly recommend it to students and practicing veterinary technicians and assistants.
Publisher: British Small Animal Veterinary Association, 2011
952 pgs, soft cover
ISBN 13: 978-1905319268