This quick reference (handbook) was first released 1969 by Dr. R.W. Kirk. The last edition prior to this current 9th edition was published in 2006. Much has changed since 2006, so this is a timely and important new edition.
This handbook is useful as a quick reference, and provides a selection of supporting black and white images and summary tables. The layout is user-friendly, with mini-indices at the start of each chapter in addition to the quick reference in the front inside cover. The index at the back appears to be comprehensive. The back inside cover lists American emergency hotlines, some of which Canadian veternarians may wish to access, such as the ASPCA. The inside back cover also has summary charts for routine chemistry, blood gases, urinalysis, and hematology for the dog and cat.
Section 1 “Emergency Care” is a large section, starting with the first phone call/scene survey. There is a section on pain management and at the end, emergency management of specific conditions, useful for the whole team. The boxes with listings of materials required for some of the diagnostic procedures are a helpful feature because they act as handy checklists for a team member setting up.
Section 2 “Patient Evaluation and Organ System” provides evaluation using a systems approach with a brief review of normals. The section also contains a short checklist of medical record components.
Section 3 “Clinical Signs” contains many small tables with differential diagnoses for signs, and includes typical diagnostic plans to further evaluate them.
Section 4 The “Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures” section contains protocols that apply well to both technicians and veterinarians. For example, on page 476, a U-cath size chart takes much of the guesswork out of selection. Each procedure contains information about preparation, technique and special concerns/complications.
Section 5 “Laboratory Diagnosis and Test Protocols” is of relevance to technicians as well as veterinarians. It is important to cross-check laboratory sample submission details in the book with your own local laboratory since some require slightly different sampling (such as requested volume) to meet the needs of their specific technology.
Section 6 “Charts and Tables.” Here one can find a basic drug formulary, list of reference ranges for ferret, basic rabbit and rodent information, unit conversion guide, vaccine recommendations, body surface area and SI unit conversion tables, rabies compendium, script writing, and common registered dog and cat breeds in two large American registries.
Compared to the 8th edition, the current edition has many updated references in each chapter. There could be more diagrams and photos; however, this would probably add to the cost of the book.
The cost of the handbook is reasonable, with plenty of useful tidbits for the busy practioner. Of course, standard internal medicine and surgery textbooks will still be required for more detailed information. The technical level of the book is appropriate for students, technicians, and veterinarians.