Concise Textbook of Small Animal Handling: A Practical Handbook

This instructional pocket reference condenses the most important aspects of small animal handling. It provides a portable, durable means of learning 'on the ground', as well as a convenient way to refresh on how to strive for safety and efficacy in animal handling techniques. Spiralbound for practical use at the animal’s side during veterinary placements in a clinic or laboratory, the text covers:

•  Handler safety 
• Animal safety 
• Sanitation
• Approach and capture 
• Routine handling and release procedures
• Handling for medical procedures 
• Use and supply sources of restraint equipment

A Companion Website provides additional self-assessment questions and answers to aid learning. Important reading for undergraduate veterinary students as well as practicing technicians, nurses and assistants, the book instructs on safe and humane handling of species encountered in both small animal practice and laboratory settings.

Preface

Acknowledgments

Caution

Author Biography

1. SAFER ANIMAL HANDLING AND PHYSICAL RESTRAINT

Handling and Animal Welfare

The More Effective Handler: The Art of Firm Kindness

Conditions for Handling and Restraint

Risks of Injury

Risks of Disease to Handlers and Other Animals

Ethical Concerns

Legal Considerations

Roles of Chemical and Physical Restraint

Keys to Good Handling of All Animals

2. SMALL ANIMAL BEHAVIOR

Behavior and Handling

Predator or Prey Behavior

Animal Hierarchy: Social Dominance

Socialization with Humans

Flight Zone

Senses and Behavior

Resistance Behaviors

Species Differences in Aggression and Avoidance

Training Methods for Handling Animals

Health and Behavior

Stereotypic Behavior and Environmental Enrichment

Nutraceuticals for Control of Anxiety

Animal Behavior Specialists

3. DOGS

Natural Behavior of Dogs

Safety First

Approaching and Catching

Handling for Routine Care and Management

Walking Dogs

Lifting and Carrying Dogs

Handling for Common Medical Procedures

Special Equipment

Transporting Dogs by Automobile or Truck

4. CATS

Natural Behavior of Cats

Safety First

Approaching and Catching

Handling for Routine Care and Management

Handling for Common Medical Procedures

Special Equipment

5. OTHER SMALL MAMMALS

Natural Behavior of Small Mammals

Safety First

Mice

Rats

Hamsters

Gerbils

Guinea Pigs

Chinchillas

Degus

Sugar Gliders

African Pygmy Hedgehogs

Rabbits

Ferrets

Handling Small Mammals for Common Medical Procedures

6. COMPANION BIRDS

Types of Caged Companion Birds and Birds of Prey

Natural Behavior of Companion Birds

Safety First

Approaching and Catching

Handling for Routine Care and Management

Handling for Common Medical Procedures

Special Equipment and Procedures

7. REPTILES

Types of Pet Reptiles

Natural Behavior of Reptiles

Safety First

Turtles and Tortoises (Chelonians)

Snakes

Lizards

Handling of Reptiles for Common Medical Procedures

Transporting Reptiles

Appendix

Index

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