Exotic Pet Care
Owning an exotic pet can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it often comes with some uncertainty. We are happy to see them when they are sick or for a Preventative Care visit. Here are some resources to help get you started right for your new scaly or feathered family member.
Reptiles
Thinking about bringing a scaly friend home? Having the proper housing setup is very important. The majority of the problems we see reptiles for are related to improper lighting or diet. In general, most reptiles need a specific light for UV exposure that should be changed every 6 months. Each reptile species also has a Preferred Optimal Temperature Zone (POTZ). This is a range of temperatures in which they thrive. Their enclosure should include the entire range so they can heat and cool themselves as needed.
Certain species are much better starters than others. Here and here are articles that discuss why and gives some suggestions on easy first-time reptiles.
Lizards/Amphibians
We most commonly see leopard geckos, bearded dragons, and various turtles. www.anapsid.org offers in depth information on a whole range of reptiles. More food for thought before purchasing a lizard.
Snakes
Snakes can make great pets. However, snakes can get VERY large. So large, in fact, that they can become dangerous to handle, feed or house when you are by yourself or have children in the home. They can live in harmony but children must be taught to have an adult present ANY TIME they want to see or handle the snake. Because of the size differences in snake species, it is EXTREMELY important do some research before you decide to make a snake part of your family. Of course we are always here to answer questions you may have about a particular breed or type of snake.
Birds
There are some birds we do not see because of their size. Macaws and Cockatoos are the most popular examples. We do see Cockatiels, Parakeets, Lovebirds and some species of Parrots. We are equipped to do Preventative Care exams, nail trims, beak trims and wing trims.