At College Animal Hospital in San Diego, our vets treat many exotic pets from reptiles to small mammals such as rabbits, ferrets, and guinea pigs.

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Exotic Pet Care

We know that caring for your exotic pet requires special knowledge and experience, so rest assured that your loved ones are in good hands.

Our team is dedicated to providing reptiles and small mammals with proper care so they can have long and healthy lives. We are also here for you whenever your pets are not feeling well.

Our staff of skilled professionals in San Diego are well-trained in the care of reptiles and small mammals and can give you the information you need to keep your exotic pet looking and feeling great.

Avian & Exotic Pet Services, San Diego Veterinarians

FAQ's for Care of Exotic Pets

At College Animal Hospital, we provide routine wellness and preventive care services for your exotic pet. Exotic pets can also be seen for medical or behavioral concerns.

  • Wellness & Preventive Care

    Much like cats and dogs, exotic pets benefit from regular veterinary care to help live a long, happy, and healthy life. Our vets are trained in the unique care and husbandry needs and veterinary treatment of these species.

    During the initial wellness visit, our vet will thoroughly review your pet’s housing, nutrition, and care. A complete and thorough physical exam will be performed. Health screening tests and vaccines will be discussed and recommended when indicated. Our vet will discuss any husbandry, health, or behavior concerns with you and answer any questions you might have. Recommendations will be tailored to the needs of your pet and their family.

  • What can I expect at an exotic appointment?

    When you bring your exotic mammal in for a routine exam, we will assess the overall health of your pet. We will perform a thorough physical examination, recommend the appropriate preventive care, and answer any questions you may have about your pet to help ensure their health and longevity.

  • Sick Pet Appointments & Daytime Emergencies

    Exotic pets with health or behavior concerns can be seen by our vet. If possible, please call  (619) 286-1980 in advance to determine the availability of our veterinarian. While we do accept walk-in and work-in emergencies for exotic pets, there may be an additional fee if double booking of appointments occurs.

  • What is an exotic mammal?

    Exotic mammals are small animals including rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, chinchillas, rats, mice, hamsters and gerbils. Many exotic pets are prey species in the wild and consequently can be very good at hiding the signs of illness until it is quite advanced, which is why preventive veterinary care is so important.

  • What are reptiles?

    Reptiles are air-breathing vertebrates. Covered in special skin made of bony plates, hard scales or a combination of both, they regularly shed an outer layer of skin. These can include iguanas, tortoises, lizards, turtles, snakes and more.

    To give your pet reptile the best chance at a healthy life, habitat and diet must be meticulously maintained. Preventive care is critical.

Exotics We Treat

At College Animal Hospital, we provide dedicated veterinary care for many types of exotic pets, including:

Exotic Mammals

Ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and others.

Reptiles & Amphibians

Lizards, turtles and tortoises, snakes, and others.

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