This new third edition provides the reader with a greater understanding of the purpose of animal systems and their functions, resulting in a valuable introductory text for pre-veterinary or veterinary tech students, and for students in animal science-related curricula. Anatomical structure - both gross and microscopic - is also explored to help the reader build the basic foundation needed for future study and clinical practice.The features and highlights include: new introductory chapter on Basics of Structure and Function, with explanations of anatomical terms and orientation; logical organization of content according to body systems, with coverage of eight traditional domestic species: horse, dog, cat, cow, sheep, goat, pig and chicken; greater coverage of avian-specific physiology to reflect the role of poultry in agriculture and growing public interest in birds as pets; expanded range of anatomy-oriented illustrations to convey key concepts effectively - a real benefit for beginning students; and study aids and self-evaluation sections to help readers prepare for course work and exams.