Animal Chat

Everyone has them. The relatives nobody talks about. Usually they are the most interesting family members but somehow they are never discussed.

In the pet world the pets almost never discussed are the exotic or unusual pets. Birds and pocket pets often don’t receive veterinary care because people simply don’t realize their veterinarian is trained and interested in caring for unusual species.

Most health problems in these animals revolve around management and nutrition. Iguanas need to eat more than lettuce and a diet of straight seeds will seriously affect the health of your bird. A lack of vitamin C will cost your guinea pig its life. Many veterinarians carry foods appropriate for exotic pets. After acquiring your new pet contact your veterinarian about the nutritional needs of the animal. You will greatly extend its lifespan by doing so.

Management involves the environment of your pet. Reptiles have particular temperature needs and ultraviolet light requirement. Birds should not be kept in the kitchen (a scorched Teflon pan releases enough toxic gas to kill a bird). The size and variety of perches matter. The substrate of a pocket pet’s enclosure makes a difference. Sand or shavings, which is right for your pet? A veterinarian can help with all of these issues.

Many times owners don’t realize that these animals have health care needs. As a result when the animal has a problem they are upset to discover the problem could have been prevented. Ferrets need regular vaccinations. Guinea pigs need to consume vitamin C. Older rabbits can have serious tooth issues.

Learning that veterinary care is available for their special pets can pleasantly surprise owners. Broken wings can be repaired; skin issues in reptiles can be resolved. The lives of these unusual pets can be long and healthy. If you want to acquire an exotic pet for the first time ask Dr. Sheffield for advice. He can help you decide which pet will work best in your lifestyle. There is actually quite a bit of difference between caring for an iguana and caring for a bearded dragon. Making the right choice will keep you and your exotic pet happy.

Just because a pet is not a dog, cat or a horse doesn’t mean it won't benefit from regular veterinary care. Care and information is available, give us a call and we will be happy to help you keep your exotic pets health and enjoying life for a long time to come.