Exotics

In the veterinary world an exotic animal is a small animal which is not a dog or cat. This includes rabbits (despite them being the third most popular pet in the UK), ‘small furries’ (including guinea pigs, hamsters, rats and chinchillas) reptiles and birds. We are also, on occasion, asked to treat fish, spiders and snails.

The classification of exotic refers more to the different requirements of these species from the dog and cat in terms of the diseases they suffer from and the underlying causes.

Tortoise eating leaves

For instance many exotics are much more reliant on a suitable environment for good health and can become unwell if this does not simulate their natural habitat closely enough.

Understanding these differences and their effects as well as being more aware of the likely health conditions in exotic species is important to help identify and treat their illnesses when they occur.

Polly Cornwell and Greg Elliott-Moustache have a particular interest in exotic animals.  Nurse Sue Fraser has a particular interest in Tortoises. 

Polly has completed extra qualifications in exotics and hold the ESVPS General Practitioner Certificate in Exotic Animal Practice. Polly is happy to provide first opinion care of all species and can obtain more specialist advice / treatment as required.

Whilst we provide all of our own 24 hour emergency cover, this is provided on a rota basis and we cannot guarantee that Polly or Greg will be available out of normal working hours.

 

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Shepton Veterinary Group Limited
Allyn Saxon Drive
Shepton Mallet BA4 5QH

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