According to a recent study, more than 13% of U.S. households own an exotic pet. These specialty pets include animals like birds, fish, ferrets, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, turtles, snakes, lizards, amphibians, and poultry. With these pets becoming more available in our local pet stores, veterinarians have seen an increase in the number of exotic pets seen in practice. Just like our dogs and cats, keeping our exotic pets healthy requires regular veterinary checkups. Routine wellness exams are one of the best ways that owners can keep their companions happy and healthy.
Many exotic pets have specific environmental and nutritional requirements. A wellness exam will include a thorough evaluation of your pet’s cage set up to ensure that you are providing an appropriate environment and with the best products. We will also perform an evaluation of your pet’s current diet since offering proper nutrition is the key to preventing illness in these specialty pets. There are so many products on the market that it’s hard to know what’s best. Discussing husbandry and diet options with an exotic veterinarian, especially when you first buy a pet, will start your patient on the right path and prevent more complex and costly problems down the road.
Finally, a complete physical exam will be performed to assess for any detectable abnormalities or illness. As most exotic pets are prey animals, they will instinctually hide signs of illness. Regular physical examinations will provide early detection and treatment of disease. These appointments are also good times for behavioral evaluations and grooming procedures. Make sure your pet is healthy and thriving by booking annual wellness visits with our exotic specialty veterinarian at Dogwood Veterinary Hospital & Laser Center!