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Clinical techniques of invertebrates.
Matthew E Braun1, J Jill Heatley, John Chitty
1Department of Clinical Sciences, 612 Hoerlein Hall, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA. braunme@auburn.edu
Summary
This guide details veterinary techniques for restraining, diagnosing, and treating invertebrates like snails, slugs, and spiders. It covers essential clinical procedures for pet and agricultural arthropods and gastropods.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Invertebrate Medicine
Background:
- Invertebrates such as gastropods (snails, slugs) and arthropods (spiders, insects) are increasingly kept as pets and for agricultural purposes.
- Veterinary care for these species often lacks standardized techniques and equipment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of techniques and equipment for the restraint, diagnosis, and treatment of gastropods and arthropods.
- To enhance veterinary practitioners' ability to provide humane and effective care for invertebrate patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of current clinical techniques for invertebrate species.
- Detailed examination of specific procedures including restraint, hydration assessment, fluid therapy, diagnostic sampling, imaging, exoskeleton repair, ectoparasite control, euthanasia, and postmortem examination.
Main Results:
- Highlights essential techniques and equipment for successful invertebrate patient care.
- Covers a wide range of invertebrates, including pets and agricultural species.
- Addresses critical aspects of invertebrate clinical practice from diagnosis to postmortem examination.
Conclusions:
- The article aims to stimulate further research and reporting on humane veterinary techniques for invertebrates.
- Increased knowledge and application of these techniques will improve veterinary care for a diverse range of invertebrate species.