Veterinary Forensics
Animal Cruelty Investigations
By Melinda D. Merck
(Wiley-Blackwell, Paperback, 9780813815015, 368pp.)
Publication Date: July 2007
Other Editions of This Title: eBook
Categories: Forensic Science, Veterinary Medicine - General
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Animal cruelty is gaining attention worldwide. With the rise of mandatory reporting requirements for veterinarians and prosecution of animal cruelty, veterinarians and pathologists need the resources to properly assist in these cases.
Veterinary Forensics is a practical reference for veterinarians, pathologists and investigators. Written by a leading expert in veterinary forensics, it provides the background and resources needed to work with animal abuse cases. The book offers detailed and clear direction on crime scene investigation, forensic testing and forensic pathology findings, as well as guidance on handling evidence and conducting evaluations that will hold up in court.
Primarily focused on dogs and cats, the principles and techniques in this book can be applied easily to other species as well. Photographs highlight pertinent forensic findings in animals, and extensive appendices include forms for examination, report writing, entomology collection, body condition scoring, forensic kits, forensic specialists and labs, and web resources.
Melinda D. Merck, DVM, is a forensic veterinarian with the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), and frequently provides training for veterinary and law enforcement professionals nationwide on the use of veterinary medical knowledge in the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty cases. In addition, she is a veterinary forensics consultant for the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office in Atlanta, Ga., and also conducts veterinary forensic examinations for Gwinnett County Animal Control. Dr. Merck often testifies as a forensic veterinary expert for animal cruelty cases around the country, including cases involving animal hoarding, dog fighting and animal torture. She has previously worked as an associate veterinarian in both private practice and animal hospital settings.
Melinda Merck is not your average "pet detective." As a forensic vet with the ASPCA, Merck offers insight into the harrowing world of animal cruelty — and how we can use the legal system to stop it. More at NPR.org
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