The Handbook of Veterinary Care and Management of the Military Working Dog - Including Anesthesia / Pain Management Standards

Book excerpt: PREFACE Since 9/11 the veterinary care of Military Working Dogs (MWDs) has assumed a greater importance. The role of the working dog has never been more visible and more appreciated. At this writing there are a large number of MWDs deployed throughout the world in support of the Global War on Terrorism. Many people both in and out of uniform are coming to realize that MWDs are among the most valuable and cost-effective counterterrorism tools we have. Before 9/11 detector dogs and their skills were largely taken for granted, even downplayed. Comments like: “MWDs are low-tech”; and “Dogs will be replaced by sensors, imaging techniques and computers” were not uncommon. Detector dogs have become a very visible front-line protective measure against bomb threats – check out the headlines on suicide bombers to see what our terrorist enemies are up to. Then check out the film clips that show security forces in action – the dogs are everywhere! These are reminders that no other tool in the arsenal can match the efficiency, mobility, adaptability and field readiness of a working dog. So, what’s new – why publish a new edition now? Yes 9/11 did change things – this edition now has guidelines for MWDs exposed to Anthrax. This third edition of the Handbook also contains new information about the prophylactic laparoscopic-assisted gastropexy program that aims to protect our most “at-risk” dogs from GDV. We also provide guidelines on transitioning from once daily feeding to feeding two “meals” a day; the Dog Center now feeds over 500 MWDs twice a day. Additionally we have updated information about MWD Adoption – a program that has come of age in the 2 years since the publication of the second edition. Also in an effort to provide a “one-stop” resource for working dog policy, this edition now incorporates topics that were formerly available only as VETCOM policy letters. These and other revisions make this new MWD Handbook one of the most up to date resources for military veterinarians caring for MWD’s and other Federal Agency working dogs. All veterinary personnel involved in anesthesia should familiarize themselves with these standards, as some previously used agents (such as butorphanol / acepromazine / glycopyrrolate combination, tiletamine / zolazepam, and xylazine) have been removed from the guidance The world will continue to change and our veterinary care will also change as our knowledge, new technology, and improved therapeutics become available. Our commitment to the health care of MWDs is a constant. Keep up the good work!