Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice: Companion and Aviary Birds (PDF)
Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice, Companion and Aviary Birds, 2nd Edition · Birds (Avian and Poultry) · Internal Medicine · Surgery, Orthopedics & Trauma

Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice: Companion and Aviary Birds (PDF) is a practical guide covering diagnosis, treatment, and surgical care of pet and aviary birds. Ideal for vets and students, it offers clear, concise, and accessible clinical information with illustrations and real-world insights.
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Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice: Companion and Aviary Birds (PDF) – Detailed Overview
Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice: Companion and Aviary Birds is a modern, practical, and highly accessible resource tailored to the day-to-day needs of veterinary professionals, students, and bird enthusiasts. Designed with clinical relevance in mind, this book provides clear and concise information that bridges the gap between academic theory and practical veterinary application. With an emphasis on the clinical presentation and management of birds commonly kept as pets or in aviary environments, this title stands as a comprehensive reference for effective avian care.
The book is authored by Dr. Bob Doneley, a highly regarded avian veterinarian, and brings together years of experience in treating birds of all sizes and species. It combines fundamental medical knowledge with current clinical techniques and is especially valuable for veterinary practitioners who do not specialize in avian medicine but encounter bird patients in general practice.
Purpose and Focus
Unlike dense academic textbooks, Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice takes a hands-on, problem-solving approach. Its primary focus is to serve as a practical manual that can be quickly referenced during consultations, surgical procedures, and diagnostic evaluations. Whether a practitioner is dealing with an emergency case, developing a long-term treatment plan, or providing routine care, the book offers step-by-step guidance supported by diagnostic flowcharts, case examples, and decision-making aids.
Content Structure
The book is logically organized into sections that reflect the actual clinical workflow of avian care—from patient assessment to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Key areas covered include:
- History Taking and Clinical Examination
Learn how to approach avian patients with proper restraint techniques, effective communication with bird owners, and thorough physical exams. The text includes visual aids for posture, feather condition, and behavioral cues that can help identify underlying issues. - Common Presentations and Syndromes
Organized by clinical signs (e.g., weight loss, respiratory distress, feather plucking), this section helps practitioners diagnose and manage birds based on what they observe in practice, rather than memorizing long lists of diseases. - Diagnostic Techniques
The book details practical use of radiography, hematology, fecal examination, and crop sampling, with guidance on how to interpret results accurately. - Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Includes drug dosage tables specific to avian species, administration techniques, and supportive care protocols. It offers up-to-date pharmaceutical guidance with an emphasis on safety and efficacy. - Surgical Procedures
Basic and advanced surgical interventions are described, including wound repair, reproductive surgeries, and orthopedic procedures. Clear illustrations help guide incision placement and instrument handling. - Species-Specific Notes
While the book generally focuses on birds commonly kept in captivity (e.g., budgerigars, cockatiels, parrots, finches, canaries), it also addresses the physiological and behavioral nuances of different species. This section ensures that treatment plans can be adapted based on each bird’s unique needs. - Husbandry and Preventive Care
Emphasis is placed on proper housing, environmental enrichment, and nutrition, which are vital to long-term avian health. The book also covers vaccination protocols, parasite control, and hygiene standards.
Visual Aids and Accessibility
One of the book’s most valuable features is its rich collection of visual aids. Full-color photographs, diagnostic charts, anatomical diagrams, and tables are strategically placed throughout the book to support quick understanding and immediate application. The layout is clean and intuitive, allowing readers to find information efficiently, whether they’re in a clinic setting or studying at home.
The PDF format of the book makes it even more accessible, allowing users to search topics instantly, zoom in on diagrams, bookmark important sections, and carry the reference on any device—laptop, tablet, or smartphone. This portability makes it especially useful for mobile veterinarians or fieldwork.
Who Will Benefit from This Book?
Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice is ideal for:
- General Practice Veterinarians who occasionally treat birds and want a reliable, quick-reference guide.
- Veterinary Students who need a clear introduction to avian medicine that combines theory with practical application.
- Exotic Animal Veterinarians seeking a refresher or quick resource in the clinic.
- Bird Owners and Aviculturists interested in understanding avian health management, common illnesses, and preventive care.
- Wildlife Rehabilitators handling injured or sick companion bird species.
Conclusion
Avian Medicine and Surgery in Practice: Companion and Aviary Birds is an indispensable tool for anyone involved in the care of avian patients. Its practicality, up-to-date clinical content, and user-friendly format make it one of the most useful texts available for modern avian medicine. Whether used as a clinical handbook or as a study resource, this book provides the essential knowledge and confidence needed to deliver high-quality care to birds in a variety of settings.
With its emphasis on practical skills, diagnostic reasoning, and species-specific approaches, this book remains a cornerstone resource for all levels of avian veterinary practice.