Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats

This third edition focuses on presenting evidence about breed predispositions to increased levels of disease in purebred dogs and cats; and it seems to succeed in including all the best and most recent findings in the existing body of scientific literature. The book is therefore a must for all small animal vets, leading breeders, breed organizations and others tasked with advising on how to improve the welfare of dogs and cats through better breeding. Peter Sandøe The authors have relied on 'evidence-based veterinary medicine,' i.e. a solidly scientific basis for their claims. They have enumerated the problems that arise in hundreds of breeds of dog and cat, and any person contemplating the acquisition of a purebred animal is well-advised to study this book carefully. Doing so can help assure that the animals we profess to love do not live lives of pain, suffering, disease and misery. Bernard E. Rollin Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats, Third Edition provides a comprehensive exploration of current knowledge of breed predispositions based on rigorous examination of primary research. Designed to aid veterinarians in diagnosis, breeders in selection, and scientists in research, this invaluable reference is the only evidence-based single source of information on breed-related diseases for dogs and cats. Although there are widely held beliefs that certain breeds suffer from certain conditions at rates higher than the general population, the authors discovered in their research that many of these established facts were backed by very little data. With the goal of creating a truly useful one-stop information resource, the authors developed criteria for selection and included only those diseases with strong evidence of breed predisposition. This rigorous approach is intended to help readers gain a deeper understanding of breed predispositions based on the current published evidence base. This newly updated Third Edition: Incorporates the latest research, new testing methods, and newly-discovered predispositions and diseases Provides expanded information on genetics, epidemiology, and longevity Includes key characteristics of diseases, including pathogenesis, genetics, risks, and common presentations Indexes dogs and cats by breed, with listings of common inherited and predisposed disorders organized by body system Includes absolute and relative frequency/occurrence data for conditions, along with references to further information Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats, Third Edition is a critical evidence-based tool that aims to assist veterinarians, breeders, owners, students, and scientists to better understand the health of dogs and cats and thereby to improve animal welfare.