Bearded dragon,
'Topaz', in her habitat.
Veterinary care is important for your birds, reptiles, and small
mammal companions. Many veterinary facilities do not provide
services for these animals; however the doctors at Care-Pets have
taken special interest in the care of these species. Veterinary
services for exotic companion animals include: wellness exams,
husbandry consultations, behavior consultations, and diagnostic
testing.
Wellness Exam
Routine wellness exams every 6 months to 1 year are just as
important in birds, reptiles, and small mammals, as they are in
dogs and cats. Wellness exams are not a guarantee that your pet
will be healthy for their entire life. However a wellness exam can
provide early detection of disease, allowing many diseases to be
treated before they become a life-threatening problem.
Physical exam on a
rabbit.
Husbandry
Most exotic pets have very specific requirements for housing,
lighting, temperatures, and feeding. Husbandry consultations are
most beneficial before you bring your new pet home, so that you can
get your animal off to the right start. Husbandry consultations can
also be done as part of your new pet's initial wellness exam.
Behavior
Behavior consultations are primarily for our bird patients. Some
of our feathered friends develop problems with excessive
vocalization, biting, and feather plucking. These problems can have
a medical component, but are often behavioral. Modifications in
training, daily interactions, and feeding strategies can often help
manage or overcome unwanted behaviors.
Preparing for an intramuscular injection
for a Cockatiel.
Diagnostics
Many of the same diagnostic testing used in dogs and cats can
also be used in our birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Blood work,
x-rays, and fecal exams are the most common diagnostic tests. Blood
work can be used for routine wellness screening, testing for
diseases, and determining the sex of your bird. X-rays and
ultrasound can be helpful in evaluating the internal organs of your
pet. Fecal exams can help evaluate the digestive system and help
determine if any parasites are present. Many other diagnostic tests
are available and are recommended on a case by case basis.
For more information on caring for your pet give us a call at
812-246-6146 to schedule an appointment today. Our
veterinarians are waiting to meet your furry, feathered and scaly
friends.