Читать книгу Feline Dentistry - Jan Bellows - Страница 11

Paul D. Pion, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)

As someone whose personal relationship with cat teeth is limited to avoiding being pierced by them, I feel awkward writing the preface to a text on the examination and treatment of these “weapons.” However, as an educator with passions for learning and sharing information, I've enjoyed observing the evolution of the art and science of feline dentistry by following collegial discussions in the Dentistry Folder and CE courses on Veterinary Information Network (VIN). The rapid growth in knowledge about feline dentistry and the application of that knowledge into clinical practice has been remarkable, from the perspectives of both medicine and practice finances.

What is nearly as remarkable, and disappointing, is the persistent lack of assimilation of this knowledge into the curricula of most veterinary schools. This reality, above all, defines the importance of this text authored by one of the most passionate pioneers and leaders in the field.

We veterinarians and those we work with care deeply about the treatment and comfort of our feline patients and companions. We also recognize that we can't fulfil our passion of caring for our patients without ensuring the financial health of our practices. Over the past few decades, feline dentistry has risen from the fringes of medicine to a cornerstone of both medicine and practice income.

Although, as a cardiologist, I am not likely to apply the wealth of practical knowledge contained within these pages, I firmly believe the information presented here is essential for the health and well‐being of our feline patients, our colleagues – young and old – and our profession.