Skip to main content

Exotic Pet Medicine and Surgery

We see a broad range of exotic pets in our practice, and offer a variety of services, some of which are similar to the dog and cat (examination, radiographs, bloodwork, surgical services..), and some which are unique to a particular species (nutritional, handling, behaviour..) We also provide referrals to veterinary exotic specialists as required on a case by case basis.

Rabbits

By

There are over 50 breeds of domestic rabbits, ranging in size from less than 1 kg to as much as 7 to 9 kg which are becoming increasingly popular as pets. In addition to routine examinations of rabbits we offer consultations on diet and husbandry, parasite evaluations on feces, ears and skin, and check for incisor and molar overgrowth. We provide neutering and spaying services in addition to other routine surgical and medical procedures.

Iguanas and Other Lizards

By

The popularity of iguanas and other lizards is continuing to grow. We are happy to discuss proper husbandry(cage furnishings, heat,temperature, lighting, humidity ,water, nutritional supplements, zoonoses), nutrition, and quarantine protocols. We provide complete examination services as well as blood screening, survey radiographs (skeletal mineralization), fecal examination for parasites, microchipping, ovariectomy, and other surgical procedures. Regular checkups help identify potential problems at an early stage.

Gerbils, Guinea Pigs, and Hamsters

By
Many small rodents are kept as pets, including the rat, the mouse, the gerbil, the hamster, and the guinea pig. These pets require little space, are relatively inexpensive to maintain, and provide an excellent starting point into pet ownership for children. We can provide client education on sexing, handling, nutrition, normal lifespans, and housing for these pets. In addition we recommend yearly examinations in an effort to maintain the long term health of the pet.

Ferrets

By

The domestic ferret has increased dramatically in popularity as a pet over the last 20 years. These animals have specialized husbandry (nutrition, vaccination, spaying, neutering, descenting, dentisry..) and handling requirements which we would be happy to discuss. They are often presented to us with a variety of diseases, many of which are similar to those seen in the dog and cat such as distemper, intestinal foreign bodies, back problems, bladder stones, lymphosarcoma, and heart disease. All ferrets should receive a physical examination, vaccines and a heartworm test on an annual basis. Spaying is required for all non-breeding females to prevent persistent estrus and hyperestrogenism. Castration is recommended to decrease odour and aggressiveness in males. Ferrets have a high incidence of dental disease if fed moist food. Various forms of dental care may be recommended by the veterinarian.At 5 years of age and older, semi-annual examinations and bloodwork are recommended to screen for the most common geriatric diseases.(adrenal tumors, insulinoma..)