Book

Blood Groups and Transfusion in Companion and Farm Animals is an illustrated clinical reference on red cell blood groups and the safe use of blood in veterinary practice. It begins with the principles of immunohaematology, including red cell antigens, naturally occurring and induced alloantibodies, inheritance and nomenclature. Dedicated chapters then describe the blood group systems of dogs, cats, horses, donkeys and mules, cattle, small ruminants, camelids, pigs and other species, noting clearly where knowledge is established and where it is limited. Further chapters cover blood donors, collection, components and storage; blood typing and compatibility testing; transfusion therapy species by species; and adverse transfusion reactions, neonatal isoerythrolysis and alternatives to transfusion. Each topic follows a consistent format with an at-a-glance table, an overview, the antigens, antibodies and biology, clinical significance, testing and practical management, common pitfalls and key points. Schematic figures illustrate antibody binding, the feline AB system, component preparation, crossmatching, neonatal isoerythrolysis and the response to a suspected reaction. The text draws on recent peer-reviewed literature and consensus guidance, with numbered references listed by chapter. It is written for veterinary students, residents, small animal, equine and farm animal practitioners, blood-bank staff and researchers. It is an educational aid and gives no drug doses, transfusion volumes or treatment protocols.