Exotic pets are fascinating and rewarding pets to keep, but it’s safe to say that they come with their own set of challenges. They require specific husbandry, a specialised diet and – you guessed it – a certain type of vet practice!
You may think that all vets are the same, but each vet has their own strengths. Some vets love consulting whereas other vets prefer surgery and with this comes a preference of what animals they treat.
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You could very roughly split the veterinary world in treating three different types of animals; which include small animals (cats and dogs), large animals (horses, cows and farm animals) and then exotics (lizards, snakes and birds).
So, if you are an exotic pet owner, you need to try and sniff out the exotic vets that are out there in the wild if you’re in need of veterinary care for your pet.
Let’s have a look at what veterinary options are out there for exotic pet owners.
What is a specialist vet?
Once a veterinary surgeon has qualified from university, they may wish to specialise in a certain area. However, a specialist differs from a vet who may just have a particular interest or strength within the profession.
Let’s say that your pet has broken a bone and requires surgery in order to repair the fracture. There may be a specific vet who carries out the orthopaedic surgery and who performs the follow-up checks, as this vet mainly deals with orthopaedic cases.
Whilst vets can specialise in orthopaedics, many vets may just focus their particular area of interest in this field without becoming a specialist veterinarian.
A veterinary specialist will have carried out advanced training that has been certified by an awarding body. To become a specialist, a vet must have completed:
- Their Veterinary Surgeon degree
- A 2 – 3 year residency program
- An internship or equivalent
Once a veterinary surgeon has completed the required training, a specialist status will then be granted by the awarding body following exams. Some vets may wish to become an exotic specialist, meaning that they predominantly see exotic animals for treatment.
Can only specialists see exotic pets?
Technically, any veterinary surgeon can see an exotic animal, within reason. However, many vets may have limited knowledge on how to treat exotic animals. You may think that once a vet has gained their degree, that they have an endless knowledge and know the answers to all of the burning questions that you may have.
The truth is, vets aren’t super human. No matter how long they have been qualified, they may need some support from other professionals along the way. This can be especially true in exotic animal cases; as the number of exotic animals that are seen at the practice are far less than the cases of cats and dogs.
It may be beneficial to find a veterinary practice who has a vet that is adequately trained to see exotic animals on a first opinion basis. However, it would be worth checking with the practice first if the vet is happy to see your exotic animal, especially if it’s something weird and wonderful!
It is also important to keep in mind that an exotic first opinion practice may not always be able to help and treatment options may still be limited. In these cases, an exotic referral may be required and this is usually to an exotic vet specialist.
Exotic referrals
An exotic referral may be required when your first opinion vet is unable to help any further. A referral may be to a practice that see’s exotic animals on a regular basis. Or to a referral centre to see an exotic specialist.
At my current practice, we regularly refer animals such as rats, guinea pigs and rabbits to a practice that has a vet with an interest in exotic animals, if the treatment required is more complex than we can provide. Unfortunately, we do not have the knowledge base to be able to provide consultations to reptiles or other exotic animals. This is a common theme at most veterinary practices.
Do not worry if your exotic pet requires a referral. A referral practice should be able to provide the most up to date care for your exotic pet. And they will have a better understanding of medications that can be used; along with treatment options that are available. If you have an exotic pet, it may be worth considering exotic insurance policies. Treatment for exotic pets can be expensive, so it would be beneficial to have a policy in place.
How can I find an exotic vet practice?
It can be difficult to find a veterinary practice that will see exotic pets. It may be beneficial to ask on exotic pet forums in order to get recommendations from other owners who share their homes with exotic pets. We also have an exotic section on our forum which may be able to offer some guidance.
Keep in mind that you may have to travel a fair distance in order to see an exotic vet. VetHelpDirect has a handy vet finder tool, which can show veterinary practices in your area. The tool enables you to select what pet you have so that it can filter the results and find your nearest exotic practice.
When in doubt, always call your local veterinary practice to ask for advice. Veterinary practices always receive calls regarding exotic pets. And they will know of local practices that may be able to help you further.
Exotic vet practices
We are lucky enough to have many options for exotic practices in the UK. Some require a referral from a first opinion practice, whereas others will happily register new clients to see on a first opinion basis.
RVC Beaumont Sainsbury – run by the Royal Vet College and based in Beaumont Sainsbury, the RVC provides referral treatment for all types of exotic animals including reptiles, birds, fish and small mammals.
Both the vet and nursing teams have specific expertise in the care of exotic animals.
Ark Vets – Located near Sheffield, Ark Vets is able to offer appointments for exotic pets and even zoo animals. They routinely provide care for exotic animals including primates, meerkats, reptiles, birds and fish.
Ark vets are available for both first opinion and referral cases.
Manor Vets – Based in Birmingham, Manor Vets offer a range of treatments for exotic animals. Both the vet and nursing teams have certificates and further training in exotic pet treatment and handling.
Manor Vets have treated otters, skinks and even owls!
Final thoughts on vets and exotic pets
Exotic pets can be expensive, both in husbandry and vet care. Always ensure that you have adequate insurance or funds to be able to provide your pet with the best care possible. Owning an exotic animal should be a luxury and their best interests should always be at the centre point of everything that they require.
Sharing your home with an exotic pet should not be underestimated, so carry out plenty of research before you opt to own one of these magnificent animals.
Be prepared to travel to veterinary practices if you require treatment. Remember that not all veterinary practices will be able to offer your pet treatment, so do your research beforehand. If you require an exotic specialist to see your pet, this will most likely need a referral from a first opinion vet. If this is the case, then contact your first opinion exotic vet directly who will be able to put you in touch with the referral practice.
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