Veterinary Anatomy and Physiology

Abstract

This spiral bound workbook is dedicated to the clinical applications of anatomy and physiology and while it does not have a companion textbook, it can easily be used with any veterinary anatomy and physiology textbook currently available. The book is made up of seventeen chapters, Each chapter includes very detailed line drawings with more than adequate labeling as well as corresponding micrographs as is evidenced in Chapter 5 which deals with histology and tissue slides. These micrographs would be extremely helpful to a student who is viewing prepared slides and needs help identifying structures. The same is true of chapter 4 which addresses histology from a unique perspective. While the pictures are great, the most intriguing feature of this chapter is its step-by-step guide to the preparation of histology slides; something that the reviewer has never seen in an anatomy and physiology manual before. While this subject may be more in line with a clinical pathology manual; it is a fitting addition and complements the later section on necropsy procedures quite nicely. The same unique approach is utilized when discussing the cardiovascular system, fully detailed with beautiful pictures that are complemented with line drawings for ease of understanding. This chapter also provides in-depth yet easy-to-understand directions on the use of electrocardiogram machines in veterinary medicine.

Other chapters that are equally helpful in the study of anatomy and physiology include Chapter 7: Bones which takes the student through the study of bone from histological information to the physical identification of bones and their unique structures. Chapter 8 follows up with some beautifully done pictures to introduce students to the sometimes confusing study of musculature. Having read her fair share of anatomy lab manuals, the reviewer was heartened to see that the pictures were shot in such a way that one could actually tell which way the cadaver is facing for good orientation and identification of structures. Other chapters included great detail on individual systems presented in such a way that the system in question is sub-divided as is the case of the digestive system which details both the oral cavity and the entire alimentary canal (presented in 30 easy to follow steps) so that the student does not become overwhelmed with information. This chapter also gives great differentiation as to the ruminant digestive tract. The sub-categories are then “hooked together” so that it all makes sense in the end. Perhaps the most unexpected and delightful find of the entire book rests in the chapter addressing the endocrine system which showcases some of the best pictures ever on individual gland placement in a cadaver specimen; something that is sometimes hard for even a seasoned anatomists to identify in live specimens.