Preface

I am honored to host this issue in the series on exotic animal practice. Beyond the initial physical examination, hematology is often one of the first diagnostic tools used by veterinarians to evaluate the medical status of healthy and ill animals. Many exotic animals are skilled at masking signs of illness from their caretakers. The need for a thorough understanding of this basic physiologic parameter is an essential first step in the medical evaluation process. I have brought together a diverse and dynamic group of contributors to explore the world of hematology in exotic animal species commonly seen in clinical practice. I thank all of them for their tireless efforts to make this issue relevant, updated, and informative.

This issue serves as an introduction to hematology for veterinarians who are new to the practice of exotic animal medicine. For the seasoned exotics veterinarian, this issue may offer some additional insight into previously explored areas, such as Dr. Stephen Kania's chapter on “Flow Cytometry Applications for Exotic Animals.” I also encourage further exploration of the various textbooks, book chapters, and journal articles cited as references, which laid the foundation for this issue.

I would like to dedicate this issue to one of my earliest mentors, Dr. Mark Pokras, Director of the Wildlife Clinic at Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine. Enjoy!