Practical Veterinary Forensics

Veterinarians often come into contact with the law in cases of animal cruelty, domestic animal and wildlife crimes, and human crimes with an animal element. This book provides practical information and training on how to operate within a crime scene. It covers the tests that may need to be carried out, collecting evidence, preparing reports and giving evidence in court as an expert witness. Concentrating on the basic principles and background knowledge needed, the book includes hair, blood and bite mark analysis as well as an overview of firearms injury. It explores wider concepts such as the human-animal bond and one health, going on to give practical guidance and numerous case studies, which bring the book to life and into the real world of the busy crime scene. Practical Veterinary Forensics is an indispensable guide to all veterinarians working in cases of animal cruelty, abuse and crimes against animals. It is essential for welfare organizations, animal shelters and those requiring an introduction to veterinary forensic science.

Dr David Bailey is a qualified veterinary surgeon with 25 years' experience as a veterinarian in mixed animal practice. He is the founder and course director of the first recognized postgraduate teaching qualification in Veterinary Forensics and Law in the UK, and an experienced expert witness, instructed in civil and criminal cases in matters involving animals, animal by-product, animal welfare, and animal cruelty matters. He now runs Forensic Vet Ltd., a company created to fulfil a need for a standardised approach to legal disputes involving experts, evidence and animals, with an emphasis on practical veterinary forensics delivered through teaching, research, and an understanding of the law.