Critical Care Reference Library

This library gathers key resources in critical care and emergency veterinary medicine. From foundational textbooks to recent journal articles, these materials are here to support your journey in providing advanced care for animal patients.

Textbooks

Emergency Procedures for the Small Animal Veterinarian by Signe J. Plunkett (2011)

This essential guide was invaluable to me during my internship and first year of residency. It provides clear, step-by-step protocols for managing a range of emergency conditions, along with practical tips on client communication and discussing prognosis. Though slightly dated, it remains a trusted, go-to resource for handling urgent cases on the floor.

Small Animal Critical Care Medicine 3rd Ed. by Deborah Silverstein, Kate Hopper (2022)

Considered a cornerstone of small animal critical care, this comprehensive text is my go-to for in-depth knowledge. The latest edition covers essential new topics like bypass surgery and high flow oxygen therapy, making it an invaluable resource. A must-have on every small animal ICU bookshelf!

Textbook of Small Animal Emergency Medicine by Kenneth J. Drobatz, Kate Hopper, Elizabeth A. Rozanski, Deborah C. Silverstein (2018)

This textbook offers a deeper dive into emergency medicine, with detailed explanations and pathophysiology beyond what's found in Dr. Plunkett's Emergency Procedures for the Small Animal Veterinarian. It’s an excellent resource for gaining in-depth knowledge during downtime.

Feline Emergency & Critical Care Medicine by Christopher G. Byers, Massimo Giunti (2021)

Cats are not small dogs! At last, a textbook devoted entirely to the emergency and critical care needs of our feline patients! Comprehensive and feline-focused, it covers everything from stabilization techniques to advanced diagnostics and treatment protocols specific to cats.

Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Disorders in Small Animal Practice (Fluid Therapy In Small Animal Practice) 4th Ed. by Stephen P. DiBartola (2011)

Fluid therapy and electrolyte management — especially sodium — are among my favorite topics in critical care, and this book is a foundational text on both. While dense and slightly dated, it remains an invaluable resource for in-depth knowledge on fluid therapy, electrolytes, and acid-base balance. For those seeking a thorough understanding of these complex areas, this book is a top recommendation.