Reptile Veterinarian Near Stamford, CT
Caring for a reptile means recognizing the subtle signals, environmental dependencies, and species-specific needs that set these animals apart. At Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics, our practice is built around birds and exotic pets, which means your reptile is a priority. If you've been looking for a reptile veterinarian near Stamford, CT, our experienced team is equipped to provide the attentive, knowledgeable care your scaly companion deserves.
From your pet's first wellness visit to ongoing health management, we deliver care that's thoughtfully adapted to their biology, behavior, and habitat along with straightforward guidance you can put into practice at home.
Reptile Species We See
No two reptiles are alike, and our team approaches each patient with that in mind. We take the time to learn about your pet's living conditions, dietary habits, and natural behaviors before creating a treatment plan. Species we regularly care for include:
- Bearded dragons
- Geckos
- Snakes
- Turtles
- Tortoises
- Additional lizard species
Don't see your reptile on this list? Reach out to our team. We're happy to discuss your pet's needs and help you prepare for your visit.
Comprehensive Medical Services for Reptiles
Reptiles are skilled at masking illness, which makes routine veterinary oversight especially valuable. As a reptile veterinarian near Stamford, CT, we look beyond surface-level symptoms. Every appointment includes a review of your pet's enclosure setup, nutrition, and daily environment because those factors are just as clinically relevant as what we observe during the physical exam.
Our facility is outfitted with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities to address both routine needs and complex medical concerns with precision.
Services we provide include:
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Husbandry
- Exotic Pet Exams
- Dental Care
- Basic Grooming for Select Species
- Emergency Evaluations
- Complex Surgical Procedures
If something seems off with your reptile's health or behavior, our team can help you figure out the right course of action.
A Team that is Specially Trained in Exotic Pet Medicine
At Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics, exotic animal care is the foundation of everything we do. Our veterinarians work with reptiles and other exotic species daily, which keeps our knowledge of current treatment protocols, safe handling practices, and species-specific health concerns sharp and current.
That depth of focus translates directly into better outcomes for your pet:
- More precise and informed diagnoses
- Handling techniques that minimize stress for your animal
- Individualized care plans that reflect your reptile's unique needs
- Real, practical advice from providers who work with exotic pets every day
When you trust us with your reptile's care, you're partnering with a team that has made exotic medicine its life's work.
Laurie Hess, DVM, Diplomate ABVP (Avian Practice)
Owner & Medical Director
Dr. Laurie Hess is board-certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in avian (bird) practice and served as the President of the Association of Avian Veterinarians from 2009-2010. She is also an active member of the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians and the Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians.
Chaya Storch, DVM
With her cherry-red hair and welcoming smile, you can’t miss Dr. Storch! Originally from Los Angeles, she earned a BS in Ecology, Behavior, & Evolution from UCLA. She then made the long trip east to earn her veterinary medical degree at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. Following graduation from Tufts, Dr. Storch completed two year-long internships in avian and exotic animal medicine at Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists in Houston and Center for Bird and Exotic Animal Medicine near Seattle.
Gabriela Zonenshine, DVM
Dr. Gabriela Zonenshine (“Sunshine”) graduated Summa cum laude from Cornell University with a dual degree in Biology and Animal Science and an honor’s research thesis. She then continued at Cornell University to achieve her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree. Dr. Zonenshine completed a rotating small animal internship at Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital in Akron, Ohio, and then received her Masters of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Minnesota.
Jonah Marion, DVM
Dr. Marion was born and raised in Westchester County, but it wasn’t until his senior year of high school that he realized he wanted to work with exotic animals. He started volunteering at the Greenburg Nature Center in Scarsdale, NY, where he was exposed to a wide variety of reptiles, birds, and small mammals. From then on, he knew that he would spend his life working with these unique creatures.
Reptile Boarding near Stamford, CT
Planning to be away? Your reptile's health and routine don't have to suffer while you're gone. Our boarding services are designed with reptile-specific needs in mind, maintaining the precise temperature gradients, humidity levels, lighting schedules, and feeding routines that keep your pet comfortable and thriving during their stay.
While in our care, your reptile receives consistent habitat management, attentive daily monitoring, clean and secure housing, and prompt veterinary attention if any health concerns arise. Contact us to learn about our boarding requirements or to reserve a spot for your reptile.
Schedule Your Reptile’s Visit with Us
Whether your pet needs a routine exam or help with a health concern, we’re here to guide you. Call (914) 864-1414 to arrange your appointment with our reptile vet team.