Exotic Pet Vets

None — Exotic Pets

According to the American Pet Products Association, 62 percent of American households own at least one pet. The most popular pets are dogs (46.3 percent of homes) and cats (38.9 percent of homes).

The American Veterinary Medical Association estimates there are more than 5 million exotic pets living in the U.S. These are nontraditional pets, ranging from rabbits, hamsters, ferrets and guinea pigs to birds, fish, turtles and lizards.

Experts say it's important for consumers to be educated about exotic animals before bringing one into the home. Find out how to care for the animal. Some of these pets require very specific habitats, food and care. The animal's new home should be set up before the purchase so everything is in place when you want it to settle in. Consider what kind of food the animal eats (i.e., animal chow versus live food) and the cost of food and supplies over time.

Next, consider who will care for the pet? Some pets require much more care than others. Young children are generally not able to handle the responsibility to care for pets. Even older children may shrug off caring for the animal once the novelty of ownership wears off.

Also, consider the potential health hazards associated with certain pets. Zoonoses are diseases that are transmitted from animals to humans. While dogs and cats can carry some diseases, the risk is much higher for exotic animals. Researchers estimate about seven percent of all cases of salmonella in the U.S. are linked to handling reptiles. Pet prairie dogs have been linked to a rare viral disease called monkeypox. The very young, very old and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk of becoming ill from zoonoses.

Veterinary Care for Exotic Pets

Pets require veterinary care to help them stay healthy and treat them for illnesses and injuries. All pet owners should establish a relationship with a veterinarian as soon as possible after acquiring an animal. That's especially true for owners of exotic pets since not all veterinarians care for nontraditional animals. La'Toya Latney, D.V.M., Attending Clinician at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in Philadelphia, says few veterinary schools offer programs or courses in exotic animal care. So it may take time to find a vet who has expertise in the care of nontraditional pets. Owners may need to ask for a referral from a local veterinarian or through a website or local group catering to specific pets.

Exotic pet vets can help a potential owner determine if a particular animal would be a good pet for the home. The veterinarian can also provide information on housing and care so the owner has the correct habitat and food available when the animal is brought home.

Research compiled and edited by Barbara J. Fister

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For general information on pet care:

ASPCA, http://www.aspca.org

American Veterinary Medical Association, http://www.avma.org

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