Animal Abuse and Unlawful Killing: Forensic veterinary pathology

9 11/16 X 7 7/16 in Introduction

Definition of forensic veterinary pathology ? a deve loping specialty.

The relationship between the forensic veterinar y pathologist and the courts.
Why do it?

The forensic examina tion and report

The locus: types of loci, value of attending at t he locus, notes and photographs * The forensic necropsy procedure: stand ard procedures, avoidance of pitfalls, natural disease Interpretation of findings *Report writing: plain English, formatting and numbering

Estimation of the post mortem interval * Rigor mortis, post mortem changes including adipocere and mummification, immunohistochemistry, ent omology and environmental clues

Wounds and other injuries

Superficial injuries: skin wounds including abrasions, incisions, lacera tions and stab wounds * Bruising and haemorrhage * Internal injuries: bl unt trauma; penetrating wounds; head; thoracic; abdominal; pelvic and li mb injuries

Non- accidental injury

Terminology and definit ions * Features that raise suspicion * Links to violence in the home * L imitations on application of current knowledge to non-companion animals<