About The Book

The first edition of this book was written as student notes, but demand from veterinarians, veterinary students and farmers led to its publication.

It is intended primarily to describe diseases of pigs present in the UK and Europe, those that threaten the European pig industry or those which may yet be identified here. It deals mainly with conditions found in intensive units and can therefore be used worldwide. Conditions which are uncommon in such intensive units may be dealt with in less detail.

The descriptions of diseases and the measures adopted for their control are based on a mixture of personal experience, review of the literature and, in the case of the newer syndromes, word of mouth or case reports.

This edition reflects the increasing concern of the veterinary profession and public in the UK about welfare, meat quality and general safety. The account of each disease is supplemented with an opinion on the humane endpoint for slaughter, and on risks to humans to be expected from each disease and therapy.