Books

Cognitive aids can save lives and reduce the incidence of complications. They also have an important role in improving outcomes for teams in crisis situations in operating theatres. The BSAVA Cognitive Aids for Anaesthesia in Small Animal Practice is a quick reference resource for veterinary teams in theatre. It includes checklists that should be completed as part of any anaesthetic procedure as well as troubleshooting guides and crisis checklists. In combination with appropriate training, this guide is a valuable addition to the veterinary team’s operating toolkit.

BSAVA is pleased to provide recordings of lectures from its 2023 Congress. Delegates who attended Congress can access the lecture recordings via the Podcasts tab. Most lectures are suitable for the whole practice team. If you have a library pass you can use this to access lectures - go to a lecture and click on the ‘use pass’ button.

BSAVA is pleased to provide recordings of more than 130 lectures from its 2022 hybrid Congress. Lecture recordings are available via the Podcasts tab. Most lectures are suitable for the whole practice team. You can purchase access to the full 2022 lecture package via the ‘buy online access’ button above, or you can buy an individual lecture by clicking on an individual lecture and purchasing access. If you have a library pass you can use this to access lectures - go to a lecture and click on the ‘use pass’ button. BSAVA members receive a discount on all purchases. See our Congress On Demand information page for more details of purchasing options.

BSAVA is pleased to provide recordings of more than 170 lectures from its 2021 virtual Congress. Lectures consist of both ‘on-demand’ pre-recorded sessions and live-recorded sessions, which typically include two speakers presenting their viewpoints on the topic and followed by a recording of a live discussion or Q&A. Many lectures have additional resources, available via the Podcasts tab, providing further reading or other information. Most lectures are suitable for the whole practice team. If you attended our virtual Congress as a full delegate we will be in contact regarding access to the lectures. Otherwise, you can purchase access to the full 2021 lecture package via the ‘buy online access’ button above, or you can buy an individual lecture by clicking on an individual lecture and purchasing access. If you have a library pass you can use this to access lectures – go to a lecture and click on the ‘use pass’ button. BSAVA members receive a discount on all purchases. See our Congress On Demand information page for more details of purchasing options. Please note that lecture recordings are as supplied by our virtual event provider.

BSAVA Student Focus is a one-day virtual conference for veterinary students that took place on 23rd January 2021. The programme was tailored for students to help support them in preparation for a career in small animal veterinary practice. Here we present the recordings from the conference together with a series of bonus pre-recorded lectures. These lectures are available to all BSAVA members including veterinary students and veterinary nurse students.

Lecture summaries, with their associated audio and video podcasts, and clinical abstracts from BSAVA Congress 2019. The proceedings are available to BSAVA members as part of their membership benefits and represent a valuable resource of hundreds of lectures.

If you are not a member, you may join BSAVA to gain access to these great resources, or you may purchase access to an individual year’s proceedings, or to individual lecture summaries, or you can buy a Library Pass and use this to access lecture summaries. Audio recordings and a video recording of the slides are available for most lectures, though please note that not every lecture has both audio and video files (the number of files indicated on the ‘supplementary’ tab will usually indicate this). Where no audio or video file is available, the lecture summary is usually freely available. Clinical abstracts are freely available to all.

Lecture summaries, with their associated audio and video podcasts, and clinical abstracts from BSAVA Congress 2017. The proceedings are available to BSAVA members as part of their membership benefits and represent a valuable resource of hundreds of lectures.

If you are not a member, you may join BSAVA to gain access to these great resources, or you may purchase access to an individual year’s proceedings, or to individual lecture summaries, or you can buy a Library Pass and use this to access lecture summaries. Audio recordings and a video recording of the slides are available for most lectures via the podcasts tab. Where no audio or video file is available, the lecture summary is usually freely available. Clinical abstracts are freely available to all.

Lecture summaries, with their associated audio and video podcasts, and clinical abstracts from BSAVA Congress 2015. The proceedings are available to BSAVA members as part of their membership benefits and represent a valuable resource of hundreds of lectures.

If you are not a member, you may join BSAVA to gain access to these great resources, or you may purchase access to an individual year’s proceedings, or to individual lecture summaries, or you can buy a Library Pass and use this to access lecture summaries. Audio recordings are available for most lectures within the supplementary data tab. Where no audio file is available, the lecture summary is usually freely available. Clinical abstracts are freely available to all.

This essential reference is aimed at all members of the veterinary team. Presented in an easy-to-read instructional format, this guide provides practical information on pain management for small animals, including cats and dogs, birds, rabbits and exotic pets, with an emphasis on patient welfare and evidence-based medicine.

The early chapters lay the foundations of pain management, including the physiology of pain, acute and chronic pain, pharmacological treatment and physical treatment. The following chapters focus on particular pain scenarios, such as dental pain and cancer pain, using authors’ perspectives and case examples to enhance guidelines.

This Guide combines high-quality imagery and illustrations, access to a suite of procedural videos and clear, comprehensive step-by-step techniques to provide an essential resource for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in small animal practice. All procedures have been fully reviewed and updated, and four new procedures have been added, including cystostomy tube placement, endotracheal intubation, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and wet-to-dry dressings. With alphabetised procedures, clear layout and references to further information, the third edition of the Guide is a valuable reference for vets, vet nurses, graduates and experienced clinicians alike.

The BSAVA Guide to the Use of Veterinary Medicines has been created by experts in medicine and dispensing regulations and is designed to help the whole veterinary team understand their legal, ethical and moral responsibilities in relation to veterinary medicines. This 2023 version of the Guide has been comprehensively updated and expanded, with new sections on dispensary management and reducing errors, marketing and advertising of veterinary medicines, and sustainable prescribing practices. A number of supporting videos and multiple-choice questions further enhance this edition.

The Guide is freely available to the veterinary profession and is one of the most-used resources in the BSAVA Library. It is reviewed regularly so please visit these pages for updated content.

Note: Before using this guide, readers are advised to read the disclaimer.

Updated April 2024 following review by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) and other changes particularly to the chapter on exotic pets.

Authored by veterinarians with experience in all aspects of avian care, this manual is an essential tool for those in general practice who do not often see birds. Subjects including anatomy and physiology, husbandry, behaviour, examination, and surgical techniques are covered in detail; common presentations are also dealt with in individual chapters. Includes video content.

The introductory section of this manual outlines the approach to abdominal imaging, with chapters dedicated to radiography and ultrasonography. The second section is devoted to imaging of the abdominal spaces and the common structures, including the vasculature and lymphatic system. The remainder of the manual is given over to the individual body systems.

Written for qualified veterinary nurses, particularly those undertaking a diploma or degree in veterinary nursing, this manual provides practical information for those nursing at an advanced level. The contents includes Advanced nursing practice; Advanced medical nursing; Clinical nutrition; Physiotherapy and rehabilitation; Management of the critical care unit; Advanced fluid therapy; Advanced anaesthesia and analgesia; Advanced surgical nursing; Dentistry; Endoscopy; Advanced imaging; Clinical pathology in practice; Practice administration; Nursing clinics; and Behaviour.

The importance of animal behaviour and psychological wellbeing is increasingly being recognized in the veterinary profession. Safeguarding the pet-owner relationship and assisting owners in gaining a deeper understanding of their companion animals is an integral part of modern veterinary practice. This practical and user-friendly manual includes advice from an international cohort of authors. An appendix includes client handouts and questionnaires.

The new edition of this popular manual has been extensively updated to reflect advances in this field, while readers will also find new chapters on inherited and cardiac disease.

Clinical case studies have been retained, allowing readers to consider how they might approach common problems and see for themselves how test selection and interpretation are applied. Body systems are dealt with in their own discrete chapters, as are urinalysis, blood cells and proteins.

Full-colour photographs and illustrations can be found throughout, which will prove indispensable to clinical pathologists, clinicians and veterinary students keen to get grips with a rapidly expanding subject.

Skin and ear diseases represent common problems in general practice. As the response to treatment largely depends on the correct identification of the primary disease, a systematic step-by-step approach is critical. The purpose of the BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Dermatology is to be an easy-to-read resource focused on the clinically relevant aspects of dermatological diseases. In this new edition, the initial chapters review the basic structure and function of the skin and discuss a logical approach to history taking and the core investigative tests that can be performed. New to this edition is a separate chapter on skin cytology, which features many excellent images illustrating the cytology of common skin conditions that we hope will be useful to practitioners.

Emergency care is one of the most important areas of veterinary medicine. Building on the success of the previous editions, the international team of editors and authors have reviewed and updated the manual so that it reflects the continued growth in knowledge and understanding in this crucial area while remaining a highly practical resource. The introductory chapters, covering areas such as triage, catheterization and the assessment of shock and dyspnoea, sit alongside chapters that cover system specific emergencies, ranging from cardiac arrhythmias to uterine prolapse, and from corneal ulceration to fractures and luxations. The text is fully illustrated throughout.

This manual takes a problem-oriented approach to endocrinology, focusing on the conditions most commonly seen in general practice. Practical information is laid out for ease of access, with diagnostic algorithms and treatment protocols acting as aide-mémoires for the busy clinician.

As well as providing a ready reference for veterinary surgeons in general practice, the manual will be useful for students, nurses and graduates embarking on further qualifications. The fifth edition consolidates background information on endocrine systems with advice for the investigation and treatment of disorders affecting them.

This manual provides a comprehensive and practical guide to general practitioners. Techniques suitable for advanced practitioners are included together with more detailed information on minimally invasive techniques in the cat. The new edition features chapters on oesophagoscopy, interventional endoscopy and radiology and future developments, and is accompanied by a series of videos.

PLEASE NOTE A NEW 3RD EDITION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED AND IS AVAILABLE IN THE LIBRARY AND PRINT

Part 1 considers diagnostic techniques, with chapters on the approach to a gastrointestinal case, laboratory evaluation, imaging, endoscopy, immunology and biopsy. The chapter on imaging of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and pancreas covers in detail the modalities most frequently employed in small animal practice, namely radiography and ultrasonography, whilst also briefly discussing more advanced techniques of Doppler and harmonic ultrasonography, scintigraphy, CT and MRI. The chapters in Part 2 provide a practical approach to investigating presenting complaints, outlining the clinical features, ranking the differential diagnoses in order of importance, and providing step-by-step algorithms for diagnosis. The more traditional organ-based systems approach in Part 3 includes chapters on disorders of the oral cavity, perineum and anus, and biliary system. Each chapter describes the relevant anatomy and physiology, then details diagnostic tests, and concludes with a discussion of the disorders that can be encountered, including their treatment. The final part contains chapters devoted to critical care, assisted feeding techniques, and an overview of therapeutics.

This manual covers the basic principles of haematology, including diagnostic procedures and treatment strategies. The manual includes chapters on anaemia of inflammation and neoplasia, non-regenerative anaemia and vascular thrombosis. The author panel is comprises of internationally recognized specialists from Europe, North America, the Middle East and Australia. They have worked together with the editors to produce an essential book for the veterinary practice.

This manual presents a logically arranged and readily accessible source of practical information on the investigation of lameness and other musculoskeletal disorders, the principles of orthopaedic surgery and the management of disorders affecting specific joints. Advances relevant to clinical practice have been included, such as the use of force plates and kinematics, physiotherapy and rehabilitation, and the role of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Many of the chapters feature quick reference guides on imaging techniques and also step-by-step operative techniques.

This third edition covers common presenting clinical and laboratory problems, therapeutic techniques, and the clinical management of important disease syndromes in this area. A new suite of chapters considers the effects of systemic diseases that complicate the diagnosis and/or management of kidney disease.

This practical and user-friendly manual covers the recent advances in therapeutic possibilities and contains a wealth of images to illustrate the clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of a wide range of tumours. Ethical considerations and the role of palliative care are covered.

Confident radiographic interpretation presents a considerable challenge and this manual provides a comprehensive review of the approach to radiological interpretation, the range of variants and the key fundamental principles and their application to common diseases. The manual serves as an introduction for veterinary students, nurses and new graduates. The chapters feature high quality radiographic reproductions demonstrating normal anatomy and key aspects of interpretation, as well as illustrations showing patient positioning and the practical approach that is the hallmark of the BSAVA manuals. The print edition includes a CD containing all the radiographs from the book.

Reproduction and neonatology are important aspects of general veterinary practice and there has been substantial development in the field since the first edition of the manual. The new edition provides a practical approach to reproduction and neonatology, with the chapters divided into five main sections: The reproductive cycle; Infertility; Pregnancy and parturition; Neonatology; Clinical approach to common conditions (including a chapter on the clinical relevance of biotechnological advances).

Meticulous attention to the basic principles of surgery is critical if a good surgical outcome is to be achieved. Good surgeons are not those who are simply skilled at surgery, but those who ensure that every aspect of patient care is performed at the highest standard. Complications that arise following surgery are often attributable to a lack of understanding or appreciation of the importance of these basic principles. This manual provides a solid grounding in best practice for the basic principles of veterinary surgery, which will be particularly helpful for veterinary students, new graduates and veterinary nurses as well as any veterinary surgeon wishing to update their knowledge.

This new edition provides a comprehensive textbook on diagnostic imaging of the canine and feline thorax. The Manual includes dedicated sections on the principles of thoracic imaging interpretation and individual body systems, clearly structured for information retrieval. High-quality images and illustrations demonstrate normal radiographic appearance and abnormalities associated with disease. The second edition adds new scientific knowledge, mainly gained in CT and MRI including knowledge that can be applied to radiographic interpretation, still the most widely used imaging modality for this body system.

This manual is useful for all veterinary surgeons presented with a challenging wound. It provides information in a readily accessible manner on wound management and dressings of open wounds. The chapter on tension-relieving techniques is applicable to the management of small wounds treated in everyday practice, as well as larger wounds treated less often or on a more specialist basis. The understanding of local subdermal plexus flaps, axial pattern flaps and muscle flaps is enhanced with step-by-step descriptions of the surgical techniques, featuring specially commissioned full-colour illustrations. It is particularly important for veterinary surgeons not only to consider potential complications before treatment but also, importantly, to recognize when they occur and to provide appropriate management. Similarly, there are some specific wounds, such as axillary wounds or burns, that may require a different approach to management, such as omentalization, and these are also covered in detail. The international authors have used their many years of experience and expertise in wound management and reconstruction to produce a truly practical manual.

The number of exotic and wildlife cases presented at the veterinary practice has increased significantly in recent years, with increasing expectations regarding level of care. The nursing requirements of these less familiar species are significantly different from those of dogs and cats. This manual aims to provide veterinary nurses with a greater understanding of these requirements, enabling them to modify and apply their skills to these cases.

This manual provides accessible advice on the management of common feline problems encountered in first-opinion practice. It begins with an introduction to important general issues in effective feline practice, including handling techniques, principles of examination and how to ensure a cat-friendly practice. Preventive healthcare guidelines follow, focusing on a life-stage approach, together with a discussion of therapeutics. Problem-oriented sections focus on the investigation and initial management of emergencies and common presentations. The final systems-based section gives more detailed information on the management of disorders commonly seen in general practice. Features ‘Quick Reference Guides’ presenting practical techniques and treatments in an easy-to-follow step-by-step format.

The BSAVA Manual of Practical Animal Care has been written principally for animal nursing assistants, veterinary care assistants and veterinary nurses beginning their training in practice. This manual has also been designed with the Animal Nursing Assistant syllabus in mind but is also suitable for others embarking on a career in animal care within a veterinary practice. The manual serves as an introduction to veterinary practice and includes chapters on general care and management, the use of medicines, first aid and veterinary terminology.

Awareness of animal sentience and welfare continues to grow in parallel with that of human mental health. This manual for the whole practice team provides concise practical information on how to assess and maintain the highest standards of welfare in all veterinary environments. Written by a team of experts from a range of disciplines, the manual is relevant to all veterinary professionals and animal carers, as well as those studying animal welfare and behaviour. It takes a holistic approach to animal health and considers the welfare of the veterinary team.

Rabbits make up a considerable proportion of the caseload in small animal practice, and knowledge of rabbit medicine and surgery has grown rapidly in the past decade such that one BSAVA Manual is no longer enough to do justice to this important pet. This Manual concentrates on the major surgical and dental conditions that are so common in rabbits. To maximize surgical success, anaesthesia and analgesia are first discussed. A section on imaging follows the third part is devoted to surgical techniques and the final section is devoted to dental disease and abscessation.

Fully updated and expanded to keep pace with the developments in this area of small animal practice, this new edition covers all aspects of treating reptile patients. Includes: chapter dedicated to anatomy and physiology; consideration of the reptile pet trade; revised and expanded appendices; new chapters on crocodilians and sea turtles.

This is more than just a management book. Written by a range of experienced authors who have designed and built surgeries, managed veterinary staff, bought and used the equipment, and ‘cleaned the floors’, this manual brings ideas and guidelines that will be useful in improving and running a small animal veterinary business, whether established or new.

BSAVA’s scientific committee has developed resources on a number of topics in small animal disease and practice.

Please note. The new version of the BSAVA/SAMSoc Guide to Responsible Use of Antibiotics: PROTECT ME is now available here.

Antibacterial use (both appropriate and inappropriate) imposes a powerful selection pressure on bacteria and is the primary driver of antibacterial resistance. Eliminating unnecessary use in people and animals is, therefore, essential to safeguard this invaluable resource. A key component in the fight against AMR is the adoption of antibacterial stewardship initiatives in both human and animal healthcare. PROTECT was first launched in 2012 as a joint initiative by SAMSoc (the Small Animal Medicine Society) and the BSAVA. BSAVA and SAMSoc have worked together to develop an updated ‘PROTECT ME’ poster and this supporting information is freely available to the veterinary profession. The appendices are designed to be used in conjunction with the poster.

PDFs of the NEW 2023 version of the PROTECT ME poster, together with the rabbit PROTECT poster, are available with the PROTECT ME chapter and BSAVA members can request printed copies for their practice. A form to support client communication where no antibiotic is required has also been developed. Printed ‘non prescription‘ pads are available from the BSAVA shop.

Updated August 2021; further update due shortly

Documents for the BSAVA Graduate Resource Hub.

In response to the nationwide shortage of isoflurane, BSAVA is pleased to present a webinar by Ian Self, European Specialist and Associate Professor in Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia, to help you manage your small animal patients during these challenging times. The webinar will cover the use of low flow anaesthesia and monitoring techniques to spare gaseous anaesthetic agents as well as tips on partial and total intravenous anaesthesia (PIVA and TIVA) and analgesia. This webinar has been designed to answer the clinical questions that our membership have submitted to us since the shortage was announced. The webinar is free to BSAVA members and available for others to purchase and view online.  To access the webinar, go to 'chapters', click on the link and go to the 'supplementary data' tab.