A current, comprehensive issue on metabolic diseases for the food animal practitioner. Topics include obesity and insulin resistance in dairy cows, ketosis therapy, use of serum NEFA and BHBA concentrations in herd-level assessment, mineral nutrition in transition diets, protein, fat, and energy in dairy transition diets, prophylactic calcium therapy in peripartum dairy cows, metabolic regulators of feed intake, assessing and managing body condition score for the prevention of metabolic disease, and more

The value of the canine nose is well-documented, and working dogs are being utilized for their olfactory skills in an increasing number of fields. Not only are dogs used by police, security, and the military, but they are also now used in forensic science, in medical detection of disease, in calculating population trends of endangered species and eradicating invasive species in protected environments, and in identifying infestations and chemical contaminants. Edited and contributed to by eminent scholars, Canine Olfaction Science and Law: Advances in Forensic Science, Medicine, Conservation, and Environmental Remediation takes a systematic scientific approach to canine olfaction. It includes work from scientists working in pure and applied disciplines, trainers and handlers who have trained and deployed detection dogs, and lawyers who have evaluated evidence produced with the aid of detection and scent identification dogs. The book is divided into six sections covering The anatomy, genetics, neurology, and evolution of canine olfaction as well as diseases affecting it The chemistry and aerodynamics of odors Behavior, learning, and training Uses of canine olfaction in forensics and law Uses in conservation and remediation Uses in detection of diseases and medical conditions The various contributors describe cutting edge research, some conclusions of which are the subject of vigorous debates between various laboratories and researchers. The editors have added cross-references so that readers can consider the different perspectives that are currently being advanced and understand where consensus is being built and where more research needs to be done. A useful practical reference, Canine Olfaction Science and Law provides a wealth of information beneficial to a wide range of disciplines. It aids trainers and handlers of detection dogs as well as various professionals in healthcare, law enforcement, forensic science, and environmental conservation to gain a better understanding of the remarkable power of the canine nose while encouraging further advances in applications.

This book provides updated information on the current concepts in bovine reproduction. It describes the complex issues associated with fertility and infertility in bovines and suggests strategies for achieving high reproductive efficiency. It discusses topics related to the fertility trend in bovines, estrus detection, controlled breeding, postpartum uterine health, uterine infections, and its therapeutic management. The essential roles of metabolic hormones on gonadal functions and fertility are also covered. Additionally, the book presents new insights in maternal recognition of pregnancy in bovines and suggest nutritional strategies to improve reproductive efficiency. The chapters on male fertility provide current information on semen cryopreservation, sperm quality assessment and measures to improve sperm fertility. A special chapter on intricacies in buffalo semen cryopreservation and measures to improve the quality of cryopreserved sperm is also included in this book. Lastly, the book introduces the immunobiological roles of anti-microbial peptides during sperm transport in reproductive tract and epigenetic bearing on fertility. This book is an invaluable resource for veterinary scientists, students and practitioners to understand the current developments in bovine reproduction for improving reproductive efficiency.

With nearly 100 different autoimmune diseases reported to occur in domestic animal species, this evidence-based clinical reference is a must-have for every veterinary practice! Autoimmune Diseases in Domestic Animals, from noted veterinary author Ian R. Tizard, sheds light on both common and rare conditions, including skin diseases, diabetes mellitus, thyroiditis, and hemolytic anemia. Convenient and portable, this single-source review addresses autoimmune diseases in dogs, cats, horses, and livestock species with comprehensive coverage of treatment protocols, diagnostic procedures, and the latest pathogenesis studies. All-in-one guide covers the basic science, clinical presentation, and treatment of this set of increasingly prevalent animal diseases. Comprehensive information for each disease prepares students to communicate effectively with clients. Reviews of the most recent relevant literature provide a clearer understanding of complex autoimmune diseases. Detailed coverage facilitates the accurate diagnosis and rational treatment of immunologic diseases. Information on autoimmune mouse strains and other animal models meets the needs of comparative immunology and research students. Expert author Ian R. Tizard is a well-established veterinary writer who is world-renowned on the topic of immunology in veterinary medicine.

This is the first full-length monograph to examine the history of colonial medicine in India from the perspective of veterinary health. The history of human health in the subcontinent has received a fair amount of attention in the last few decades, but nearly all existing texts have completely ignored the question of animal health. This book will not only fill this gap, but also provide fresh perspectives and insights that might challenge existing arguments. At the same time, this volume is a social history of cattle in India. Keeping the question of livestock at the centre, it explores a range of themes such as famines, agrarian relations, urbanisation, middle-class attitudes, caste formations etc. The overall aim is to integrate medical history with social history in a way that has not often been attempted. -- .

Key features: Contains the contributions of international experts from the UK, USA, Australia, Spain and Taiwan Includes over 1,500 high-quality illustrations Maintaining the health of pigs is vital in pig farming and production. This new book written by experts from around the world focuses on the health of pigs, first with coverage of the disorders of pigs organised by clinical sign and body system. The book explores environmental medicine and then health maintenance. Treatment options are discussed, emphasizing a reduction in antimicrobial use and an increased awareness of a holistic approach to treatment. The book includes over 1,500 high-quality illustrations to enhance the clinical description, as well as a wealth of high-quality videos to test the reader in making differential diagnoses with treatment options. Quizzes at the end of each section also encourage reflective learning. Clinical examination of the individual pig and groups are covered along with environmental medicine, making this the ideal reference for veterinary practitioners and students. Those interested in population medicine (poultry, aquaculture, cattle and small ruminant and apiaries) will particularly enjoy the holistic approach to veterinary medicine. All those who appreciate the many talents of pigs will enjoy the practical approach to managing the health of their animals. This book moves veterinary science forward, promoting health rather than treating disease. It will be your number one reference for keeping your pigs healthy.

3* Doody's Star Rating (R) Proper handling and restraint are essential to the welfare of captive animals, allowing them to be examined, groomed and treated in ways that contribute to their optimum quantity and quality of life. The aim of the book is to prepare future or current veterinarians and veterinary technologists, technicians/nurses, and assistants to be able to handle animals more safely and gain the confidence of animals and their owners. In turn, they will be able to instruct owners in proper animal handling methods, reducing the risk of physical injury or mutual infectious diseases. Covers more species and has greater depth in handling and restraint methods of domestic animals than any of its predecessors and current competitors. No other handling book provides this breadth information on the possible zoonoses (animal to human diseases) that might be encountered in handling apparently healthy animals. Restraint methods are well described but not in a list or "cookbook" way, as there are always nuances in handling each individual animal that require individual adaptations. Throughout the book, the author emphasises that each animal is an individual and each handling environment provides its own advantages and disadvantages: handling an animal safely, humanely and efficiently requires practical knowledge of the species' normal behaviour. This is explored in detail in each of the species-based chapters, which cover proper handling of domestic household and laboratory animals, as well as farm and ranch animals where safe handling aids the producer in both humane practice and greater profitability. After reading this book, the practitioner or student will be versed in the most basic part of the art of veterinary medicine: the safe handling of animals. The author's podcast 'Better Animal Handling' is released every Tuesday at http://www.buzzsprout.com/688886, discussing content in the book and describing effective, humane animal handling with emphasis on safety measures to prevent injury and the transmission of zoonotic diseases. You can read more on the supporting website: www.betteranimalhandling.com.

'...individual chapters provide very thorough, up-to-date reviews of health and welfare of pigs during different stages of production...The health section does a good job of summarizing the current major disease challenges facing pig production...If you want up-to-date reviews on some of the most pressing welfare issues in different stages of production, there are some good chapters included.' Animal Welfare Pig meat is the most widely-consumed meat in the world. Previous growth in production has relied, in part, on more intensive systems. In meeting rising demand, these systems face challenges such as the ongoing threat of zoonotic diseases, the need to improve feed efficiency in the face of rising costs, the need to reduce the environmental impact of pig production and increasing concerns about animal welfare. This volume looks at animal health and welfare. Part 1 reviews the main diseases affecting pigs as well as ways of managing diseases and boosting pig immune function. Part 2 reviews what we know about pig behaviour and appropriate welfare standards. It also assesses the welfare of different groups of pigs, from gilts and sows to weaned piglets and finishing pigs, as well as transport, lairage and slaughter. With its distinguished editor and international team of expert authors, this will be a standard reference for researchers in swine science, producers, government and other organisations involved in supporting pig production. It is accompanied by two companion volumes which focus on safety, quality and sustainability as well as animal breeding and nutrition.

This issue of Veterinary Clinics of North America: Food Animal Practice focuses on Bovine Theriogenology. Article topics include: Reproductive systems for North American Beef Cattle Herds, Reproductive systems for North American Dairy Cattle Herds, Beef Heifer Development, Dairy Heifer Development, Evaluation of data obtained at pregnancy detection of beef herds ,Synchronization and AI Strategies in Beef Herds, Synchronization and AI Strategies in Dairy Herds, Embryo Transfer, Management of reproductive disease in dairy cattle, Venereal Diseases of Cattle, Diagnosis and Control of Neosporosis, Management and Breeding Soundness Examination of Yearling Bulls, and more!

Management and Welfare of Farm Animals provides comprehensive and up-to-date information on the humane management of all major farmed species in both large-scale food production and alternative farming systems. Designed for agricultural and veterinary science students, this classic textbook covers the management and welfare of species including dairy and beef cattle, veal calves, sheep, pigs, chickens, turkeys, goats, horses, and farmed fish. The sixth edition incorporates recent developments throughout, including an entirely new chapter on international developments in animal welfare law, politics, and practice. Updated chapters discuss topics such as 'high welfare' livestock systems, the impact of automation and new technologies on production and welfare, the ecological impact and sustainability issues of large-scale production systems, and more. Provides a basic understanding of the principles and practices of professional and humane farm animal management Covers animal husbandry, behavior as an indicator of animal welfare, and the assessment, monitoring, and promotion of improved welfare at the farm level Offers updated information on free-range poultry, robot milking, automated disease scanning, and pastoral systems in the developing world Includes less-common farm species such as South American camelids, ostriches, and game birds Management and Welfare of Farm Animals, Sixth Edition remains the ideal textbook for students in professional, technical, or vocational education courses on the management and welfare of farm animals.

--- EMS (extra-mural studies) are an essential element of undergraduate veterinary education. Students must complete a minimum of 38 weeks EMS during their course, which should normally consist of 12 weeks pre-clinical and 26 weeks of clinical placements, a large portion of which takes place on farms. -- The highly illustrated approach allows readers to see the highlighted differences rather than try to imagine what cases look like and differentiate them from written descriptions. -- A repository of over 1000 10-second video clips accompanies the book, accessible to students on the farm with a smart phone. Each clip uniqeuly shows the animal's clinical presentation, internal disease/imaging and then healthy recovery -- There are a limited number of common conditions seen by vets in farm animal practice and an exhaustive list of all known diseases is not needed: textbooks often include such diseases for the benefit of an academic reviewer rather than student and general practitioner readers. -- This concise guide offers a breath of fresh air among the existing hefty expensive large animal medicine tomes on the market. --- Some comments from veterinary students on the proposal: "I firmly believe that this would be a very useful book and only wish that it existed already for my clinical EMS"; "There are currently several 'pocket books' for small animal medicine such as the Mini Vet guide but nothing for farm animals"; "Using a small animal 'quick', ring-bound, reference guide on EMS has been extremely useful, and it would be very beneficial to have a large animal alternative"; "The author's suggested use of high quality illustrations is what a student desperately needs. At the end of the day we need to be able to work out many diseases with similar symptoms - this book would provide that where may other current textbooks do not. I would support this new book, and hope it is released before I go into exams in the future - as it is what I currently need help within revision like so many other students. It is what the veterinary student dreams of having, and yet no one has produced it!"

The one-humped camel, or dromedary, is one of the world's hardiest domesticated animals. A vital source of transport, meat, milk and income for pastoralists in the Sahel, East Africa, the Middle East and South Asia, the camel can carry heavy loads for days in some of the world's most hostile conditions. But even camels fall ill. A Field Manual of Camel Diseases is the first practical guide to camel diseases designed for use in low technology environments. The manual details some 80 major camel diseases and conditions, ranging from abortions to wry neck syndrome. For each disease, the authors give the disease signs, its causes, and simple prevention and treatment methods. Both scientific and tried and tested traditional treatments are presented, thus enabling the veterinarian or livestock practitioner to make the most appropriate choice in the prevailing circumstances. A section on procedures explains how to examine a camel, take samples for laboratory analysis and apply various types of medicines.

Coccidiosis is one of the most important diseases of livestock, particularly poultry, with billions of dollars spent on prevention worldwide. The disease is so important and pervasive that until recently, all poultry feed was medicated with coccidiostats, mainly antibiotics. With the rapid development of drug resistance, the search is on for alternative methods of control of coccidiosis in poultry. With chapters authored by internationally renowned scientists, this book covers coccidiosis in all major livestock species, including cattle, sheep, and goats. Special emphasis is given to poultry coccidiosis given the significant economic impact, and another chapter looks at intestinal coccidiosis in humans, including Cyclospora. Chapters discuss techniques, molecular biology, host-pathogen immunobiology and immunoprophylaxis, genetics and genomics, biology, and chemotherapy. Despite an explosion of research in the last 40 years, there has been no new book published discussing conventional coccidiosis for more than 25 years. This comprehensive review therefore answers an urgent need for a book dealing exclusively with conventional coccidia (Cystoisospora, Cyclospora). It provides concise, authoritative, up-to-date information on coccidiosis, with particular attention given to research in the last 28 years. This book is essential reading for any practitioner or researcher involved in livestock production, including biologists, veterinarians, parasitologists, and researchers from government, academia, and industry.

The latest information on diagnostic pathology for the food animal practitioner! Topics include respiratory diagnostics and pathology, diagnostics of dairy and beef calf diarrhea, gastrointestinal diagnostics and pathology in feedlot cattle, neuropathology and diagnostics in food animals, musculoskeletal and integument pathology in food animals, mastitis diagnostics, ruminant toxicology diagnostics, camelid pathology and diagnostics, abortion diagnostics, field necropsy and diagnostic sample submission, population approaches to diagnostics and epidemiology, and more!

The first text to specifically address joint disease in the horse! Written by 29 pioneers in the field, the book presents the latest information on basic joint pathobiology and translates these findings into practice-applicable guidance. Clinical studies,methods of diagnosis, rationales for treatment, and critical evaluations of treatment are presented to help readers make the best management choices for each patient. This book offers the ideal combination of solid scientific grounding and up-to-date clinical detail. UNIQUE! Unprecedented, state-of-the-art coverage of the pathology, pathogenesis, and clinical diagnosis of traumatic and degenerative joint disease, so you stay in the know. Section on general principles of joint pathobiology provides the background to evaluate and interpret the diagnostic and surgical aspects of disease. Explores treatments for traumatic arthritis and osteoarthritis and other joint entities, offering a broad range of options and up-to-date recommendations for problematic decisions. Addresses recent advances and results in arthroscopic surgery for the acute injury and results including fragment removal, fragment fixation, and synovectomy. Discussion of current research provides insight for difficult cases and calls out the directions in which future arthritis research is headed. More than 325 photographs and line drawings help engage and guide you through procedures and treatments. NEW! Full color throughout with new artwork and a range of new images including radiographs showing both the normal and the disease progression. NEW! Practical step-by-step approach demonstrates the authors' preferred injections methods and shows underlying anatomic correlations. NEW and UPDATED! Restructured and substantially revised to emphasize treatment options, making it a practical, concise, and accessible reference and text. NEW! All-new chapters on drugs and new biological therapies, including stem cells, IRAP, and PRP and thoroughly updated coverage of HA and corticosteroids. NEW! Covers advanced imaging, giving you the latest information available. NEW! Expert advice from Dr. McIlwraith, three new co-editors, and new contributors - all distinguished specialists in the field of joint disease in the horse. Lameness and surgical clinicians describe how to approach the various, specific disease conditions. Equine specific radiologists provide their opinions on the best imaging techniques for defining the disease and making interpretations.

The Color Atlas of Diseases and Disorders of Cattle is the established and respected illustrated guide to the full range of conditions encountered in cattle worldwide. For this new edition the atlas has been redesigned to present over 840 colour illustrations and clearer than ever coverage of conditions, with a special emphasis on ease of use. The text has been updated and rewritten to encompass many new conditions including burns, 'bleeding calf syndrome', rib fracture and jejunal hemorrhagic syndrome, while treatment of existing conditions has been expanded. The emphasis of this new edition of the Color Atlas remains the visible signs of diseases and disorders in the live animal. In its third edition guise, the atlas is an indispensable reference for both experienced and novice cattle practitioners, government and industry veterinarians, as well as veterinary and agricultural students, and managers of large-scale cattle enterprises throughout the world. One hundred fresh illustrations included, improving the range of signs presented. Special emphasis on improvements in animal welfare. Extensive upgrade to chapter on locomotor disorders. Improved layout places images and relevant text closer together. Terms updated with the latest nomenclature. Inclusion of more lay terms and clarification of acronyms. One hundred fresh illustrations included, improving the range of signs presented. Special emphasis on improvements in animal welfare. Extensive upgrade to chapter on locomotor disorders. Improved layout places images and relevant text closer together. Terms updated with the latest nomenclature. Inclusion of more lay terms and clarification of acronyms.

No other equine quick reference comes close to providing this much accurate, timely, and clinically useful diagnostic and therapeutic information. Clinical Veterinary Advisor: The Horse is six books in one -- Diseases and Disorders, Procedures and Techniques, Differential Diagnosis, Laboratory Tests, Clinical Algorithms, and a Drug Formulary. Plus, a companion website gives you convenient, searchable access to the full text and other useful tools. Covering hundreds of current topics in a concise at-a-glance format, this authoritative resource from David A. Wilson, DVM and a group of respected contributors is a must-have guide for the busy equine or mixed-practice practitioner. A consistent, easy-reference format allows for quick retrieval of practical, clinical information. A wealth of high-quality illustrations clearly demonstrates key concepts and procedures. Concise, at-a-glance format offers six books in one with these sections: Diseases and Disorders provides at-a-glance coverage of nearly 500 common medical problems, arranged alphabetically for immediate access. Each entry presents the topic in the sequence it follows clinically, including: history and physical exam findings, diagnostic testing, treatment (including specific medications and dosages), prognosis, and recommended monitoring. References for each topic support the data presented. Procedures and Techniques offers illustrated, step-by-step instructions for understanding and performing over 100 important clinical procedures. Differential Diagnosis displays nearly every possible cause for 65 different clinical disorders. Laboratory Tests summarizes essential information needed for interpreting 110 laboratory tests. Clinical Algorithms provides easy-to-follow, step-by-step guidance to clinical assessment and treatment planning for 50 of the most common clinical conditions/disorders. Drug Formulary is a compilation of dosages and other relevant information by expert Nathan Slovis, DVM for 145 new and current medications. A companion website includes the complete text of the book in a fully searchable format, which allows quick access to any topic and its related information in the six different sections. The website also includes a searchable drug formulary, a color image collection, clinical algorithms, and 50 client education sheets available in both English and Spanish.

Key features New chapter on nutrition Includes new section of case studies Completely revised and updated chapters throughout This systematic yet concise guide to equine pediatric medicine covers etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, diagnosis, and management. Beginning with a thorough explanation of the physical examination, the chapters then take the reader through the different disorders associated with each body system, including liver, cardiovascular, respiratory, opthalmologic, endocrine, and muscoskeletal diseases. A brand new chapter on nutrition has been added to this fully revised text. The book is superbly illustrated throughout with photographs, diagrams, radiographs and tables, while a new section of in-depth case studies brings the information to life and is ideal for students. Equine practitioners will value this as a ready reference, while veterinary students and technicians can use it as a complete guide to equine pediatric disease.

Doody's Core Title (R) 2002 Sheep Medicine, Second Edition describes key sheep diseases encountered in general practice along with their diagnoses, treatment, prognoses, control, and, where appropriate, post-mortem features. The book is divided into chapters covering each body system. Each chapter of this completely revised and updated book opens with a recommended approach to clinical examination of the featured body system, rather than simply providing a listing of disorders and diseases. The book also guides readers through all stages of the disease process highlighting the critical clinical features important in the diagnosis. Ancillary tests available to veterinary practitioners are detailed, emphasising their practical applications and cost limitations. Several self-assessment exercises featuring typical clinical cases affecting each body system are collected in a revision chapter at the end of the book. Diseases and disorders are included with the common differential diagnoses followed by the specific diagnosis and recommended treatment(s). The book is invaluable to veterinarians in practice and training, animal scientists and agricultural advisors, and scientists interested in animal welfare.

Designed for the mixed practice large animal veterinarian, veterinary students, and camelid caretakers alike, Llama and Alpaca Care covers all major body systems, herd health, physical examination, nutrition, reproduction, surgery, anesthesia, and multisystem diseases of llamas and alpacas. Written by world-renowned camelid specialists and experts in the field, this comprehensive and uniquely global text offers quick access to the most current knowledge in this area. With coverage ranging from basic maintenance such as restraint and handling to more complex topics including anesthesia and surgery, this text provides the full range of knowledge required for the management of llamas and alpacas. "..an essential text for anyone working with South American camelids." Reviewed by Claire E. Whitehead on behalf of Veterinary Record, July 2015 Over 500 full-color images provide detailed, highly illustrated coverage of all major body systems, physical examination, nutrition, anesthesia, fluid therapy, multisystem diseases, and surgical disorders. World-renowned camelid experts and specialists in the field each bring a specific area of expertise for a uniquely global text. Comprehensive herd health content includes handling techniques, vaccinations, biosecurity, and protecting the herd from predators. Coverage of anesthesia and analgesia includes the latest information on pharmacokinetics of anesthetic drugs, chemical restraint, injectable and inhalation anesthesia, neuroanesthesia, and pain management. Reproduction section contains information on breeding management, lactation, infertility, and embryo transfer. Nutrition information offers detailed nutritional requirements and discusses feeding management systems and feeding behavior.

Factors Affecting Calf Crop summarizes the latest information available from leading cattle physiologists and geneticists regarding factors known to influence the production of live calves at weaning. You get practical information on management techniques for improving reproduction efficiency in the herd. You'll also learn about the functioning of the reproductive system and how this may affect reproductive processes in the cow herd. Managers will benefit from a clearer understanding of the factors known to limit efficient reproduction, while veterinarians and other professionals who advise cattlemen will appreciate the substantial reference material and color photographs for defining cow condition scores. Color photographs are also used to illustrate the discussions of testicular thermographies and their applications.
Other chapters in the book cover developments in improving reproductive performance of the replacement heifer, the brood cow, and the bull. Topics on reproduction include physiology/endocrinology, the use of growth promotants, genetics and physiological and economic considerations in selecting the age to breed heifers, heritability of fertility, length of the breeding season, prepartum and postpartum nutrition, nursing by the calf, cloning of embryos, and much more.

Key features: Stresses safety in handling, restraint, and containment of animals Covers handling and restraint of all domestic and common tamed animals and provides information on normal animal behavior and welfare Discusses how to recognize signs in animals of poor handling and containment Reviews zoonotic disease risks to animal handlers, particularly from normal-appearing animals, and how to avoid transmission of disease Features over 200 informative line drawings for clarity and simplicity of illustration Explains how to tie useful knots and hitches and when to use them for restraint Includes basic ethical considerations and legal liabilities of animal handling and containment Presents steps to prevent animal escapes, barn fires, and problems with transport Authored by an experienced veterinary educator in clinical medicine for veterinarians, veterinary students, pre-veterinary students, veterinary technicians and technologists, animal scientists, and animal owners Proper handling and restraint are essential to the welfare of captive animals, allowing them to be examined, groomed and treated in ways that contribute to their optimum quantity and quality of life. The aim of the book is to prepare future or current veterinarians and veterinary technologists, technicians/nurses, and assistants to be able to handle animals more safely and gain the confidence of animals and their owners. In turn, they will be able to instruct owners in proper animal handling methods, reducing the risk of physical injury or mutual infectious diseases. Throughout the book, the author emphasises that each animal is an individual and each handling environment provides its own advantages and disadvantages: handling an animal safely, humanely and efficiently requires practical knowledge of the species' normal behaviour. This is explored in detail in each of the species-based chapters, which cover proper handling of domestic household and laboratory animals, as well as farm and ranch animals where safe handling aids the producer in both humane practice and greater profitability. After reading this book, the practitioner or student will be versed in the most basic part of the art of veterinary medicine: the safe handling of animals.

'Retire? You can't retire!', Sir David Attenborough told John Bartram, when the man who has been gamekeeper and senior wildlife officer for Richmond Park for the past thirty years announced his intention to step away from the role, bidding farewell to the iconic park which has been his home, the backdrop for a career many would give anything for, and a way of life for so long. During a career spanning four decades John has been the behind-the-scenes mastermind ensuring the welfare and maintenance of Richmond Park's world-famous herd of deer - widely thought of as the finest herd in captivity. Working with these fabled creatures has demanded balancing their needs with the very real, and often fatal, dangers the park's visitors pose to his herd, and John pulls no punches when it comes to his opinion on the deer's place in the scheme of things, the human 'invaders' and the collision of their two worlds. A remarkable diary chronicling the final year of John's charmed life as the guardian of Richmond Park, this memoir tells of the unique demands of each new season, and of the enormous wrench he will feel upon no longer waking up in the midst of so much unchanged and wild beauty.Park Life is a treasure trove of stories and memories, some poignant and moving, others offbeat and hilarious: from the quirk of fate and farcical interview that led to him getting the job, to living in close-quarters with the deer, the tragedy of putting down fatally wounded animals, and the annual ritual of the rut - as dependable as the rising and setting of the sun.