Dr. Joel Wallach stands as a significant figure in veterinary medicine, renowned for his extensive research, numerous publications, and groundbreaking work in animal pathology. His career is marked by a deep engagement with understanding animal diseases, particularly in exotic and non-domestic species. This dedication is clearly reflected in his impressive bibliography and the sheer volume of autopsies he has conducted, providing invaluable insights into comparative medicine.
From 1965 to 1994, Dr. Wallach authored or co-authored an impressive 55 publications, demonstrating his commitment to sharing his knowledge with the scientific community. A significant portion of his work, 20 papers, was featured in the esteemed Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA). Furthermore, 6 of his reviews were included in professional books, with the remaining articles published in other respected veterinary journals. This widespread publication record underscores the relevance and impact of his research across various platforms within veterinary science.
Beyond journal articles, Dr. Wallach’s expertise is encapsulated in his co-authorship of “Diseases of Exotic Animals: Medical and Surgical Management” (with W.J. Boever), a highly regarded treatise published by W.B. Saunders Co. Philadelphia in 1983. This book serves as a cornerstone resource for veterinary professionals dealing with the complexities of exotic animal care. Recognizing the need to disseminate information to a broader audience, he also co-authored (with Ma Lan) “Let’s Play Doctor” and “Rare Earth’s and Forbidden Cures,” published by Double Happiness Publishing Co., Bonita, CA. These books aimed to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding of health and wellness.
Dr. Wallach’s early research, documented in his first paper in 1965, focused on goitrogenic hypothyroidism in feeder lambs. His subsequent publications cover a diverse range of topics, showcasing his broad expertise. These include common diseases and treatments for waterfowl, game birds, exotic birds, reptiles, fish, ruminants, kangaroos, monkeys, and elephants. He also addressed critical issues such as nutritional problems in captive exotic animals, documenting cases of degenerative arthritis in a black rhinoceros, visceral gout and nutritional challenges in captive reptiles, angioedema in a gorilla, and metabolic bone disease like fibrous osteodystrophy and hypervitaminosis D in green iguanas. His work extended to practical aspects of animal management, including the immobilization of animals of varying sizes (from rabbits and guinea pigs to African elephants), steatitis in captive crocodiles, reptile anesthesia, hand-rearing a white rhinoceros, surgical techniques for caged birds, the management of captive elephants, erysipelas, and cystic fibrosis.
The depth and quality of Dr. Wallach’s publications are notable for their thorough referencing and rich illustrations. His 1970 JAVMA review, “Nutritional Diseases of Exotic Animals,” is a prime example, featuring 19 photographs from his personal files, illustrating diseases stemming from improper feeding practices in a wide array of exotic animals. Similarly, his 1971 JAVMA review on environmental nutritional diseases of captive reptiles included 18 photographs, 17 of which were his own. Another 1971 JAVMA publication provided a comprehensive guide to goldfish management and medical care, covering breeding, pediatrics, biological data, nutritional and infectious diseases, parasites, and surgical and anesthetic methods. In a 1977 paper with M.S. Silberman in JAVMA, he detailed foot care for captive elephants, further demonstrating the breadth of his practical knowledge.
Dr. Wallach’s access to diverse animal species, facilitated by autopsy material from zoos across the country, contributed to his extraordinary claim of performing 17,500 autopsies across 454 animal species and 3,000 human autopsies over a 12-year period. While seemingly large, when averaged, this number equates to approximately 7 autopsies per day, assuming 250 working days annually. Considering that many were routine and involved smaller animals, this figure is plausible for a dedicated veterinary pathologist actively engaged in research and diagnostic work. This extensive hands-on experience, coupled with his prolific publishing record, solidifies Dr. Joel Wallach’s standing as a highly experienced and knowledgeable figure in veterinary pathology and comparative medicine.
