Health and Welfare of Brachycephalic (Flat-faced) Companion Animals: A Complete Guide for Veterinary and Animal Professionals

Brachycephalic animals, such as dogs, are facing health and welfare issues due to a population boom for certain breeds. This book provides an in-depth understanding of the crisis, offering historical, social, ethical, communication, nursing, welfare, epidemiological, genetics, and international perspectives. The second half covers the clinical arena, with chapters on respiratory disease, ophthalmology, dermatology, dentistry, neurology, obesity, reproduction, and anesthesia. Written by world-leading experts, this essential reference resource will inform, challenge, and stimulate readers to improve the welfare of brachycephalic animals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 418 pages
Publication date: 06 August 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The health and welfare of brachycephalic (flat-faced) animals are among the most urgent concerns confronting companion animals today. Dogs, in particular, are facing a "brachycephalic crisis" due to a perfect storm of factors, including predispositions to various health issues amplified by a population boom for certain brachycephalic breeds such as the French Bulldog and Pug. Despite their endearing personalities and cute appearances, these dogs are often considered ideal companions. However, the truth behind this situation is complex.

This book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of brachycephalic health and welfare for veterinary professionals, animal welfare scientists, breeders, and owners. The first half of the book delves into the context of how and why we find ourselves in this crisis, offering in-depth historical, social, ethical, communication, nursing, welfare, epidemiological, genetic, and international perspectives. The second half focuses on the clinical aspects, covering the background, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the unique healthcare needs of brachycephalic animals. Cutting-edge knowledge is shared across various disciplines, including respiratory disease, ophthalmology, dermatology, dentistry, neurology, obesity, reproduction, and anesthesia.

With twenty chapters written by world-leading experts with extensive experience and knowledge, this book is the first dedicated exclusively to brachycephaly in companion animals. It serves as an essential reference resource that will inform, challenge, and stimulate readers. It will open their minds to new opportunities for improving the welfare of brachycephalic animals through personal and collective choices and actions. However, readers should be prepared to be surprised as their views on brachycephaly may evolve throughout their journey of understanding.

Weight: 848g
Dimension: 176 x 253 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367207243