At Southgate Animal Hospital in Southgate, our vets treat exotic pets including birds, reptiles, and small mammals such as rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs.
Quality Veterinary Care for Birds, Reptiles & Small Mammals
We know that caring for your exotic pet requires special knowledge and experience, so rest assured that your loved ones are in good hands.
Our team is dedicated to providing birds, reptiles, and small mammals with proper care so they can have long and healthy lives. We are also here for you whenever your pets are not feeling well.
Our staff of skilled professionals in Southgate is well-trained in the care of birds, reptiles, and small mammals and can give you the information you need to keep your exotic pet looking and feeling great.
FAQs for Care of Exotic Pets
At Southgate Animal Hospital, we provide routine wellness and preventive care services for your bird or other exotic pet. Exotic pets can also be seen for medical or behavioral concerns.
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What is the avian species?
The avian species involves any and all things in relation to birds. These small exotic animals have become popular pets for people seeking intelligent, affectionate companions with personalities to spare.
Many birds are prey species in the wild and may hide signs of illness as a defense mechanism against predators, making consistent, qualified preventive veterinary care critical to their health and well-being.
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What should I do if my bird is sick?
If your bird becomes sick, there are several things you can do to help them regain its health, including making sure they are eating and drinking properly.
Separate sick birds from other pets in your house and ensure they stay warm. We also recommend putting birds that have fallen ill on cage rest while they recover to prevent stress and to give them about 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness every day.
Take your bird to your veterinarian for an exam if your avian friend is displaying signs of illness. Seriously ill birds will need to be hospitalized, while those that are only mildly sick or are still eating and drinking may be treated at home by their owners, with a veterinarian's direction.
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What characteristics do reptiles and amphibians have?
Reptiles and amphibians appeal to many people who would like something different than the traditional furry pet. They require unique environments and preventive care to thrive.
Turtles, snakes, lizards, iguanas, tortoises, and more fall under the reptile classification. These air-breathing vertebrates are covered in a specialized skin made of hard scales, bony plates, or some combination of the two.
Amphibians include frogs, toads, salamanders and newts, and worm-like caecilians. These cold-blooded vertebrates lack scales. They spend part of their lives in water and part on land.
Your veterinarian can tell you about these animals' special dietary and housing needs.
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What housing needs do exotic mammals have?
Exotic mammals have specific care and behavior requirements, and people thinking of purchasing one should check their local laws and regulations regarding ownership.
For example, ferrets have earned a reputation as escape artists so should be housed in a large cage that's well-ventilated, securely closed, and locked. These intelligent, curious, and socially interactive animals require a "ferret-proof" play area or room to explore and investigate under supervision.
A hedgehog's large, escape-proof cage should be kept away from direct sunlight, cold areas, or drafts. Since hedgehogs have sharp quills, this can make handling difficult and they will require consistent and proper care.
Talk to your vet about your specific pet's housing, nutritional, social, and preventive healthcare needs.
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What can I expect at my exotic pet's veterinary appointment?
When you bring your exotic companion in for an appointment, the vet will complete a thorough routine exam to assess the general health of your pet.
We'll recommend appropriate preventive care, perform any required tests, and answer any questions you may have about at-home care.
Exotic Animals We Treat
At Southgate Animal Hospital, we provide dedicated veterinary care for many types of exotic pets, including:
Birds
Parrots, finches, canaries, backyard poultry, and others.
Exotic Mammals
Ferrets, rabbits, pot-bellied pigs, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and others.
Reptiles & Amphibians
Lizards, turtles and tortoises, snakes, and others.