The Exotic Pet Vet Blog
You plan an exotic, or perhaps not so exotic, getaway for you and your family. Tickets are booked, hotel plans are made, then you are stuck with the question – what do I do with my beloved exotic pet? Some owners bring in a pet sitter who will come twice a day to visit, feed and clean their pet in their home. While there are benefits to having someone come to your house when you’re away, a lot can happen to your pet during the hours the sitter is not there. Another option is to bring your pet to the…
Ferrets Need Regular Dental Care
Did you know that ferrets can get dental disease just like cats, dogs, or you? Unlike people, who can communicate that their teeth hurt and make a dentist appointment, our…
Why Special Species Of Exotic Pets Require Specialized Veterinary Care
In human medicine, special medical problems typically require specialized medical care. For example, if you have a broken bone, you see an orthopedist who specializes in the care of broken…
Getting An Exotic Pet
By Laurie Hess, DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Avian Practice) Birds can make great pets in the right situations. However, unlike pet cats and dogs who often enjoy the company of other…
Holiday Hazards In Exotic Pets
By Laurie Hess, DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Avian Practice) Like human infants, rabbits are very oral creatures; they like to put everything in their mouths to check things out. Unfortunately, also…
A Guide to Dental Care for Exotic Pets
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, and just like dogs and cats, did you know that exotic pets need dental care, too? In general, most pet owners don’t brush…
Exotic Pets in the Classroom: What’s Best for Kids?
Pets and kids — for many of us they go hand in hand. I can’t imagine growing up without a pet. Pets teach children so many important lessons: how to responsibly…
Why Does My Bird Push Her Tail Side Against Me and Cluck and Flap?
Q: My bird will lean her tail feathers against me and flap her wings. While she’s doing this, she makes clucking noises. What’s going on? A: What you’re describing sounds like…
It’s Not Always a ‘Peaceable Kingdom’ With Exotic Pets
We all love to make new friends, and it’s great to have companionship. But hanging out with others isn’t necessarily the best thing if you’re an exotic pet. Too many…
Have an Exotic Pet? Watch That Thermostat
When it comes to exotic pets — feathered, furry or scaly — the temperature of the world they live in can be critical. Many exotic pets have specific needs when…
Bird and Exotic Pet Boarding: As Fun as Summer Camp
Wouldn’t you love for your pet to go on his own vacation while you go on yours? Well, he can if he goes to a veterinary practice that caters specifically…