Veterinary Care for Exotic Pets

We encourage all bird and exotic pet owners to bring their animals in for a well pet visit at least once a year. We stress preventative medicine, including proper diet and husbandry. We want to ensure that your pet lives the longest, healthiest life it possibly can!

Some of the exotic pets we are able to provide care for are:

Birds	Guinea Pigs	Chinchillas	Reptiles
Ferrets	Rabbits	Turtles	Micro Pigs
Amphibians	Mice	Fish	Potbellied Pigs

Going to the veterinarian can be stressful for all pets and exotics are no exception. Below are some tips to keep in mind so that your pet has a comfortable and safe trip to CVAC!

• All Exotics should always be transported in a cage or carrier and kept warm, especially in the winter. Wrap their cage in blankets and make sure to warm up the car. For reptiles use insulated containers such as a hard-sided igloo cooler. If you do use a Styrofoam cooler your reptile should be contained in a smaller carrier (i.e. Kritter Keeper) and not in direct contact with the styrofoam. Reptiles should also be transported with a heat source in the carrier. Call the clinic for suggestions or questions.
• Leave your pet in their cage until they are in the exam room. Our lobby has large windows that may pose a potential risk for birds.
• Bring the exact information (brand name/type) regarding the food being fed as well as any dietary supplements given.
• It is helpful to see your pet’s droppings and have a sample available for fecal flotation. Bringing in a fresh sample of the cage papers or avoiding cleaning the cage before your arrival will allow us to better asses your pet’s healthcare needs.
• Bring extra pellets/hay when dropping off your small mammal.
• If you bring a ferret in for vaccines they will have to stay an extra 15 minutes for observation as there is a risk of allergic reaction. This is also why we schedule ferret vaccines for morning or early afternoon whenever possible.
• Amphibians should be transported in a small container (i.e. Kritter keeper) lined with paper towels moistened with water from the animal’s enclosure.
• Aquatic turtles (red-eared sliders, painted turtles, mud/musk turtles, snapping turtles) should be dry-docked for transport
• Clients with reptile pets should fill out the Reptile Form, prior to the appointment.