Maintaining Your Exotic Pet's Health
Birds, reptiles and small mammals need routine and preventive care, just like dogs and cats. While their veterinary care and handling may be different, the goal is ultimately the same: to prevent illness and give your small mammal the best chance at a long and healthy life.
Exotic pets have become increasingly popular as pets over the years, and many people have discovered a special bond that can be formed with these special creatures. These unique and delicate pets require a level of care that can only be provided by a veterinarian with specialized knowledge and experience working with small animals.
Making sure that your furry, feathered, or scaled friend is happy and healthy is our top priority. At Stoney Trail Veterinary Clinic, we provide preventive care for small mammals like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and ferrets, as well as reptiles and birds. We are proud to be able to take care of your small companion.
Health Care for Exotic Pets
During each checkup, your veterinarian will review your pet's housing, nutrition, and care. A physical exam will be performed, and health screening tests and vaccines will be discussed as needed. Our team will address any at-home care, health, or behaviour concerns and answer your questions.
At Stoney Trail Veterinary Clinic, some of the types of exotic pets we care for include:
Birds
Parrots, cockatiels, conures, finches, canaries, backyard poultry, and others.
Exotic Mammals
Ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and others.
Reptiles & Amphibians
Lizards, turtles, tortoises, snakes, and others.
Exotic Animal Care FAQs
At Stoney Trail Veterinary Clinic, we are proud to provide our clients with guidance and education.
Read through some of our frequently asked questions below to see what clients want to know about exotic pet care:
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Do exotic pets need preventive care?
Yes, preventive care is important for all types of exotic pets and small mammals. Small mammals and other exotic pets can be very good at hiding the signs of illness until it is quite advanced. By taking them to a veterinarian for routine checkups, these subtle signs of illness can be diagnosed and treated early.
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Do you offer urgent care appointments for exotic pets?
Our Calgary veterinarians do offer urgent appointments for exotic animals. Please call (403) 247-2737 in advance to determine the availability of our veterinarian.
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How do I know if an exotic animal is the right pet for me?
Deciding whether to get a bunny, rat, bird, turtle or other type of exotic pet requires serious consideration. An overexcited child or someone without the proper knowledge of exotic pet care could cause stress or injury.
Research is critical when deciding which pet is the best fit for you and your family. When considering exotic animals as pets, this is doubly true, and doing prep work is imperative. Before buying, research their specific requirements regarding food, supplies, facilities, and other aspects. Ensure you purchase from a reputable source.
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What is a small mammal?
Small mammals include small companion animals such as rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, chinchillas, rats, mice, hamsters and gerbils.
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What is the avian species?
The avian species includes everything related to birds. These small, exotic animals have become popular pets for people looking for intelligent, affectionate companions with distinct personalities. Many birds are prey species in the wild and often hide signs of illness as a defence mechanism against predators, making consistent, qualified preventive veterinary care vital to their health and well-being.
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What are reptiles?
Reptiles are air-breathing vertebrates with skin that may consist of bony plates, hard scales, or both. They frequently shed their outer layer. Examples include iguanas, tortoises, lizards, turtles, and snakes.
To ensure your pet reptile has the best chance for a healthy life, it's essential to maintain its habitat and diet. Preventive care plays a vital role.