Preface
It is our great pleasure to introduce the fi rst edition of the BSAVA Guide to Procedures in Small Animal Practice. Our primary aim was to create a book dedicated to the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed routinely in small animal veterinary practice, with the objective of providing practical, step-by-step guidance on how to perform these techniques. In addition, this guide also includes sections on clinical examination of the major body systems, and protocols for the management of selected emergencies, including anaphylaxis and seizures.
Most of the procedures contained within this guide have originated from the BSAVA library of publications. However, they have been adapted to focus on the technical aspects of the procedure and to include hints and tips that we ourselves fi nd useful. Each procedure also includes indications and contraindications, an equipment list, and potential complications. Procedures for sample collection additionally contain brief sections on sample handling. Photographs and other illustrations are included to provide clarifi cation as necessary.
The BSAVA Guide to Procedures in Small Animal Practice focuses on procedural technique and therefore should be used in conjunction with other sources of information, such as for diagnostic test result interpretation. We have included throughout details of the relevant BSAVA Manuals where further information can be found.
We are grateful to the authors of the BSAVA publications from which much of the material from within this guide has been derived and also to our teachers and colleagues, who have been the source of many of the hints and tips. We must also thank the Publishing team at BSAVA for their editorial and administrative assistance. Marion Jowett deserves a special mention for her enthusiasm, patience and attention to detail. We are also grateful to Samantha Elmhurst for her careful illustrations.
We hope to have created a truly useful guide which will provide a valuable and lasting reference for veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and students.
Nick Bexfi eld
Karla Lee
December 2009
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