Veterinary Controversies and Ethical Dilemmas
Provocative Reflections on Clinical Practice
Tanya Stephens editor Kathy Murphy editor Polly Taylor editor R Eddie Clutton editor
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd
Published:10th Sep '25
Should be back in stock very soon
This paperback is available in another edition too:
- Hardback£78.99(9781032582603)
This book identifies increasing concerns with the veterinary profession and confronts them provocatively, with a view to stimulating positive change. A central theme is the emergence of the profitable ‘fur baby’ which is being propagated through encouraged anthropomorphism, a limited evidence base, overdiagnosis, overtreatment, and practice corporatisation. Richly accompanied with thoughts on veterinary celebrity, the misrepresentation of veterinary 'success', research using client-owned animals, unregulated treatments and end-of-life decision-making, the book represents a small room full of large elephants. With experienced contributors from around the world, each chapter combines personal stories with evidence-based reflections.
While many of the subjects presented will have undergone some degree of ethical analysis, the book itself does not intend to teach veterinary ethics; instead, its role is to identify key concerns with the profession’s current trajectory and to present them with candour, from the perspective of concerned veterinary professionals.
Ideal for use within the veterinary curriculum to stimulate undergraduate thought and discussion, this book will also be a valuable reference for practitioners as the veterinary profession comes to terms with life in a post-truth era.
"This is no ordinary book. It has stimulated thought and challenged beliefs, becoming a much-anticipated occupant of my work-related book collection. However, it was surprising just how much of the writing spoke to me with a reach far beyond that of my occupation, challenging my thoughts and even morals surrounding my chosen work in ways that were both uncomfortable and enlightening. There are many topics here that I wish had been covered when I was a student rather than learning them on the job, most importantly evidence-based clinical decision making that has animal welfare as the top priority during all stages of treatment.
Speaking up for animal welfare is a welcome beacon of hope at the end of the book. It is reassuring to see that there are people making the advancement of ethics for animals their aim and to see the possibilities for implementation into the wider profession.
With huge thanks to the editors for their enthusiasm for addressing the issues covered in this text, let’s have a go at supporting the veterinary profession to make ethically sound decisions for themselves, their patients, their practices, their communities. Start by reading the book."
Joanna Potter, BSc BVMS BMus Dip. ECVAA, EBVS®️ European Specialist in Veterinary Anaesthesia and VCI Recognised Specialist in Anaesthesia and Analgesia
ISBN: 9781032579863
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 777g
386 pages