July 1, 1999
Most people would agree that it is difficult to recognize the signs of illness in our pets--a problem compounded by their inability to communicate with us in our own language. The authors of these concise and affordable books are all veterinarians (save one) who believe that the easiest way to detect disease early in pets is to educate the owner about the animals' normal bodily functions and behavior. In each book, Part 1 covers the healthy body, with overviews of the senses and the cardiovascular, digestive, nervous, respiratory, and other systems--all presented in lay readers' terms. There are also sections on proper veterinary care, vaccinations, nutrition, grooming, and the importance of spaying/neutering procedures. In Part 2, the authors give insight into common accidents and medical emergencies (such as diarrhea, seizures, poisoning, and heat prostration), contagious and infectious diseases, and first aid care. A valuable and extensive index of signs and symbols is included along with appendixes covering household products that are poisonous, congenital defects and disorders, and medical terms and diseases mentioned in the text. Both titles are recommended for public libraries, although concerned pet owners will also want to keep a copy at home.--Edell Marie Schaefer, Brookfield P.L., WI
Copyright 1999 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.