Physiology of Domestic Animals by O. Jens Sjaastad, Knut Hove, and Knut Waage Sand is a widely used veterinary physiology textbook that explains how body systems work in common domestic species (cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, dogs, cats, and poultry). Below is a concise, reader-friendly blog post that summarizes the book’s aims, strengths, key topics, and recommended readers.
Includes about 2,000 self-assessment questions to help readers develop critical thinking for their future careers.
Covers nephron function, glomerular filtration rates, and the hormonal control of water and electrolyte balance (e.g., aldosterone and ADH pathways). Why This Textbook is Highly Valued Description
If you're looking for a downloadable PDF version, I recommend searching for online libraries, academic databases, or bookstores that offer e-book versions of the textbook. Some popular platforms include:
It is designed to bridge the gap between general mammalian physiology and specific clinical veterinary medicine.
Sjaastad, Hove, and Sand excel at making complex biophysical concepts accessible. Key features of their pedagogical approach include:
Purchasing the authorized e-book ensures you receive the latest edition with updated scientific discoveries and accurate errata.
The text uses nearly 200 clinical examples to show what happens when these systems fail, illustrating the "delicate balance" of a healthy body. Why It’s a Student Staple
“The scanned PDF of Sjaastad is missing all the color plates and the kidney diagrams are illegible.” “I found a ‘PDF’ but it was actually a corrupted file. Just buy the e-book.” “My school’s library has a 2-hour e-book loan. Enough time to screenshot key tables.”