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Reviewed by Bruce Kaplan, DVM Contents Manager/Editor One Health Initiative Website

“What is the use of living, if it be not to strive for noble causes and to make this muddled world a better place for those who will live in it after we are gone? How else can we put ourselves in harmonious relation with the great verities and consolations of the infinite and the eternal? And I avow my faith that we are marching towards better days. Humanity will not be cast down. We are going on swinging bravely forward along the grand high road and already behind the distant mountains is the promise of the sun.”
― Winston S. Churchill

 

The unique premise of this book, its extraordinary editors, editorial board and contributing authors plus the excellent writing speaks volumes.  So does its historic portrayal of the late 19th and early 20th century physician, Sir William Osler, MD—known as the Father of Modern Medicine—as being among the major visionary medical science leaders instrumental in the early establishment and recognition of veterinary medicine’s critical role in human and animal health care.  Dr. Osler [posted One Health Initiative website June 2011] still speaks to us today.

This sophisticated handbook might justifiably be viewed as a relatively concise comprehensive guide to veterinary medicine’s invaluable role in modern-day life.  It can well serve as a model to other health care professionals.  The One Medicine-One Health concept/approach is evident throughout.  Notably, there have been other unheralded One Health veterinarian and physician leaders who deserve recognition.

As other reviewers have observed, it is truly inspirational, motivational and aspirational for potential and current veterinary medical students and graduate practicing veterinarians.  Moreover, it should also be promoted and read by medical students, medical school deans, public health school deans, the current practicing physician population, indeed all public health and health care providers and ... media, political leaders along with members of the general public too!

The American Veterinary Medical Historical Society (AVMHS) in partnership with The Merck Veterinary Manual should be considered for receiving a “History of Science Book Award”.

Footnote:  Book reviewed in: In Short - Feb. 15, 2022 | American Veterinary Medical Association (avma.org)

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