At Specialized Care For Avian & Exotic Pets, we understand that caring for birds and exotic companions comes with unique questions. Our team is committed to providing clear, helpful information for every stage of your pet’s life. No matter what type of specialized veterinary care you are looking for, we are available to address the most common concerns we hear from pet owners across Buffalo, Rochester, Niagara Falls, and Erie.
Read on to find answers about wellness visits, surgical procedures, diagnostics, exotic animal boarding services, and what to expect during your visit to our exotic animal clinic. We also cover topics such as proper husbandry, nutrition guidance, and signs of illness in birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and small mammals. If you do not see your question listed, we encourage you to get in touch with us to speak with our team and schedule an appointment.
Do birds need regular veterinary care?
Yes, like all pets, birds need routine checkups with their local avian specialist. Checkup appointments enable birds to get the proper preventative care they need to remain healthy and to detect any health concerns as early as possible. They also provide the opportunity for your veterinary care team to offer guidance on your pet’s nutrition.
What signs indicate that my bird needs to see a veterinarian?
There are several signs to look out for that indicate you should take your bird to see an avian specialist. These signs include changes in droppings, difficulty breathing, not eating, feather abnormalities, abnormal behavior, or any physical changes.
Can any veterinarian treat birds, or do I need to find a specialized avian veterinarian?
While some general veterinarians may have experience with birds, it is generally recommended to seek out a veterinarian who specializes in avian care. Avian veterinarians have specific knowledge and training in bird health and can provide the best care for your feathered friend.
What vaccinations do birds need?
Birds do not need routine vaccines. However, they may benefit from specific vaccinations depending on their species and individual circumstances.
How can I keep my bird healthy at home?
To keep your bird healthy at home, the same basic human needs that we have must be met for our feathered friends. They need a healthy, balanced diet, plenty of physical and mental stimulation, good hygiene, and a clean, safe habitat.
What should I do in case of an emergency with my bird?
If you experience an emergency with your bird, remain calm and contact your avian specialist immediately. They can offer guidance on how to handle the emergency and may recommend bringing in your bird for immediate veterinary care. We recommend having your local veterinary hospital’s contact information stored on your phone in case of emergency.
What species do your office see?
At our exotic animal hospital, we provide comprehensive veterinary care for a wide range of exotic animals, including but not limited to:
- Birds - canaries/finches, budgerigars/parakeets, parrots of all species (including parrotlets, lovebirds, conures, quaker parrots, African grey parrots, cockatiels, cockatoos, macaws, etc), chickens and turkeys, ducks and geese, doves and pigeons, and many more..
- Small mammals - rabbits, guinea pigs, sugar gliders, flying squirrels, hedgehogs, chinchillas, degus, rats, gerbils, mice, hamsters, prairie dogs, and more!
- Reptiles/Amphibians - bearded dragons, Chinese water dragons, iguanas, chameleons, geckos, monitors, skinks, non-venomous snake species, aquatic turtles, box turtles, tortoises, frogs, toads, salamanders, newts, axolotls, all species of fish, tarantulas, hermit/other crabs, scorpions, and more!
- Wildlife - We do see varying wildlife for treatment, rehabilitation and release.
Do you offer preventative care for exotic pets?
Yes, preventive care is an essential aspect of maintaining the health of your exotic pet. Our exotic animal hospital provides comprehensive preventive services, including vaccinations, parasite control, regular check-ups, and wellness exams.
Do you offer medications if my pet needs it?
Due to the small sizes and special needs of most of our exotic patients, many of our medications are specially compounded for us. We maintain close relationships with several area pharmacists who have special training and equipment for compounding medications for our exotic pets. Many of our medications are available from our own pharmacy. Specific or specialty prescriptions may be scripted out directly to the pharmacy. Many of these medications can be flavored to your pet's liking.
Can you provide nutritional advice for my exotic pet?
Absolutely! Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and well-being of exotic animals.
What are some common indicators that my exotic pet may need veterinary care?
Common indicators that your pet may need veterinary care include changes in appetite, abnormal behavior, respiratory issues, skin abnormalities, or any other noticeable changes in their overall health.
How often should my small mammal have a veterinary checkup?
Small mammals should have veterinary checkups every 6-12 months, depending on their age and health status. Senior animals or those with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits. Regular checkups help us detect health issues as early as possible and provide your pet with proper preventative care.
What are some signs that my small mammal needs to visit the vet?
Watch for changes in eating habits, unusual lethargy, difficulty breathing, changes in urination or defecation, abnormal discharge from eyes or nose, hair loss, or any unusual behavior. Small mammals are prey animals and often hide illness as long as they can, so any noticeable change warrants immediate veterinary attention.
How should I feed my small mammal?
Each species has specific dietary requirements. Generally, provide high-quality pellets appropriate for your pet's species, unlimited timothy hay for most herbivores, fresh vegetables in appropriate quantities, and clean water daily. Avoid foods that might be toxic to your specific pet, such as chocolate, avocado, or foods high in sugar. Our small animal veterinarians can provide more specific information.
Why isn't my small mammal eating?
Loss of appetite in small mammals is always concerning and requires immediate veterinary attention. Causes can include dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, stress, pain, or underlying illness. Since small mammals have fast metabolisms, prolonged appetite loss can quickly become life-threatening. If your pet isn’t eating, contact our office for emergency care.
How should I keep my small mammal healthy between vet visits?
Maintain a consistent daily routine with proper nutrition, clean housing, appropriate temperature and humidity levels, and regular exercise. Monitor your pet's weight, eating habits, and behavior on a daily basis. Provide mental stimulation through toys and environmental enrichment that suit your pet's species.
Which vaccines do small mammals need?
Most small mammals do not require routine vaccinations like dogs and cats do. However, rabbits may benefit from vaccinations against specific diseases depending on their risk factors, lifestyle, and location. Your veterinarian will assess your pet's individual needs and recommend appropriate preventative measures.
Contact Us Today
The experienced team at Specialized Care for Avian & Exotic Pets helps pet owners throughout Buffalo, Batavia, Fredonia, Jamestown, Lockport, Niagara Falls, and Rochester, NY identify and address any issues with their exotic pets. We also serve clients from Erie, PA. Whether you want to address an issue or have a question about routine care, we invite you to give us a call. We'll be happy to help you!