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Preface
In this textbook, we have provided state‐of‐
the‐art information that addresses the complex
issues faced by veterinarians, veterinary techni-
cians, physical therapists, and others interested
in helping canine patients recover from injury,
especially those returning to work, sport, or
active lives. We have gathered the top experts
in the fields of veterinary sports medicine and
rehabilitation, each of whom has provided
their unique, evidence‐based knowledge. More
than a third of the authors are Diplomates of
the American College of Veterinary Sports
Medicine and Rehabilitation. Their contribu-
tions are complemented by those of a number
of highly experienced physical therapists who
have contributed their knowledge from years
of experience working in the field of canine
rehabilitation of sporting and working dogs.
We were overwhelmed by the willingness of
this highly motivated, but highly overworked
group to commit their knowledge and experi-
ences to paper. Their material presented here
is broad in scope, and deep in science and expe-
rience. It has been an honor to compile their
extensive and well‐written information to cre-
ate the definitive text on sports medicine and
rehabilitation.
This text provides residents, interns, veteri-
nary students, practicing veterinarians, and
physical therapy professionals with a resource
for their daily practice as well as a basis for
future research. This text addresses the needs of
this group in several ways, by providing:● The basic science of exercise physiology,
nutrition, and physical therapy concepts.
● The current veterinary approaches to common
canine injuries and developmental disorders.
● The current physical therapist’s approach to
these injuries and impairments.
● Current and cutting edge science to enable
the practice of evidence‐based medicine.
● Business concepts essential to running a
successful sports medicine/rehabilitation
practice.
● Case examples in each chapter to better
illustrate the concepts covered.The evidence base available to us is incom-
plete, but growing daily. We have compiled the
evidence currently available, adding those tech-
niques that have proven successful in the hands
of our highly experienced authors. The editors
and authors of this textbook firmly believe that
applying the currently available science, adapt-
ing techniques that show promise in the field,
and sharing our findings will help this field to
grow to the level expected by our dog‐owning
clients, and deserved by our canine friends.Chris Zink
Janet B. Van Dyke