Brachycephalic dogs are a source of health and welfare concerns for small animal vets. This book equips them with practical knowledge, covering technically-challenging surgical procedures, management of unique disorders and ethical and welfare aspects of choosing and caring for these breeds.The conundrum of flat-faced pets is that people love them despite - and sometimes because of - the features that may cause health issues. At a time of heightened concern about the welfare and popularity of brachycephalic breeds, this comprehensive volume brings together the world's experts to consider the history, human psychology, ethics, genetics, and veterinary aspects of caring for them. Surprising, thoughtful, and practical, this book is essential reading for anyone who cares about animal welfare.
- Zazie Todd, PhD, Canisius College,Companion Animal Psychology website
Finally. A much-needed, comprehensive, science-based look at flat-faced dogs--how they came to be and how we can, and must, improve their wellbeing. This is an essential book for veterinary professionals and dog owners alike.
-- Mia Cobb, PhD, and Julie Hecht, MSc, of Do You Believe in Dog?
Health and Welfareof Brachycephalic Companion Animals is an excellent and unique resource for all veterinary professionals working with these breeds. As the popularity of these dogs continues to increase, this book provides a detailed exploration of the history of the breeds, the unique nature of owner/ patient relationships and the genetics and ethics of breeding. The second part of the book is dedicated to discussion of the management of the wide range of conformational abnormalities which occur frequently in these breeds. Having all this information gathered together in to a single text will be an invaluable source for reference both in and out of the clinic.
-- Rachel Hattersley, BVetMed(Hons), CertSAS, DECVS, MRCVS, Specialist?in?Soft?Tissue?Surgery, Dick White Referrals Ltd
This book is a vital tool for both veterinary and animal welfare professionals, as well as those simply looking to be better informed. It provides the reader with a broad understanding of the complex drivers and consequences of breeding companion animals for brachycephalic features. Most importantly, it also proposes integrated mechanisms for management and change of what continues to be a contentious and intractable problem.
-- Mark J Farnworth PhD., Associate Professor (Animal Welfare), Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, UK
