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404 Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital
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404 Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital
905-953-1933
I am a veterinarian who has specialized in zoo, wildlife, and exotic pet medicine for 25 years. I have a Master of Science in Wild Animal Health and am a Diplomat of both the European and American Colleges of Zoological Medicine. I have had positions as Head Veterinarian at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, in Jersey, UK, as a resident in Zoological Medicine at the Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri, and, for 17 years, as a veterinarian at the Toronto Zoo, Ontario, including five years as their Head of Veterinary Services. In November 2019, I left the Toronto Zoo and started my own zoo and wildlife veterinary consultancy company, primarily working as a wildlife veterinarian at the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre. In July 2020, I was hired as an Avian and Exotic Animal Specialist Veterinarian in the Ontario Veterinary College Health Sciences Centre, a referral facility focusing on high-level companion animal care, and became Chief of the Avian and Exotic Service. This Service closed in October 2022. Since then, I have worked on contracts for various organizations such as the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, the College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California, Davis, the 404 Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital, and for the Ministry of the Solicitor General in Ontario. I remain a Specialist Graduate Faculty in the Department of Clinical Studies and an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Pathobiology at the Ontario Veterinary College. I am the Chair of the Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine.
Welcome to a world where your most extraordinary pets receive extraordinary care. We understand that every creature is unique and your exotic pets deserve specialized attention. Trust us to be the caretakers of your avian friends, reptilian buddies, and all the wonderful creatures in between.
A growing number of people are caring for small animals that would be considered by many to be non-traditional pets. These pets include:
Please note that we do not treat venomous species, large cats, production animals, or primates. We also cannot currently see local wildlife unless under the care of a licensed rehabilitator. If you find any sick or injured wild animals, please contact a wildlife rehabilitator. See Ontario.ca and Ontario Wildlife Rescue to learn more.
Each of these animals has specific housing, dietary and socializing requirements. Each is prone to specific diseases requiring diagnostic tests and treatments that can vary, sometimes significantly, from those needed to treat dogs and cats. Veterinarians who treat these patients have to obtain special training beyond that given in veterinary school, and specialized equipment to meet those needs.
Finding a veterinarian that has the expertise and equipment to diagnose and treat these unique pets can be challenging. There are fewer than 100 residency-trained avian specialists in the world.
Yearly wellness examinations are strongly recommended for all avian and exotic pets. Unlike dogs and cats, avian and exotic pets instinctively hide their symptoms of illness as long as possible. This means that just because they look healthy doesn't mean that they actually are. The yearly wellness examination is an opportunity to review husbandry requirements and to detect possible problems early in an effort to treat health conditions before they become advanced.
Wellness blood screening is another part of the yearly wellness exam that is important and encouraged for all avian and exotic patients, particularly as they age. Blood screening may detect liver and kidney problems much faster than with a physical exam alone, and may also detect specific diseases (such as insulinoma in ferrets, high cholesterol in parrots and kidney disease in ducks) before they start showing symptoms, when these diseases is easiest to treat.
Our facility offers a dedicated avian and exotic patient ward with temperature controlled cages and specialized lighting for those that need it, separate from the canine and feline patients. This minimizes the stress of hospitalization and allows us to monitor your pet's condition during the stay.
Our team is not only passionate about animals but also armed with the comprehensive knowledge required for exotic pet care. We've dedicated ourselves to learning the intricacies of treating a diverse range of species, from the sky to the soil. Exotics specialists means that someone is residency trained and accredited with either the ACZM and/or the ABVP.
Veterinary Excellence for Every Species: Birds, reptiles, small mammals, and large exotics alike receive care based on extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of their specific health needs.
Advanced Diagnostics & Treatment: Our facility prides itself on using cutting-edge diagnostic technology and procedures tailored for the unique demands of your exotic pet.
Compassionate and Customized Care: We believe that exceptional care comes with truly listening to the needs of our clients and their beloved companions, ensuring a personalized experience every time.
A Safe Haven for Healing: Your pet is in good hands within our well-equipped facilities designed for the comfort and security of your exotic animals during their treatment.
Your peace of mind is our priority. Every visit, every treatment is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to the well-being of your special member of the family. We're more than care providers; we're allies in the lifelong health and happiness of your pet.
Join a community of fellow pet owners who trust us with their most unique pets. Here's how you can ensure your exotic pet receives the exceptional care they need:
Make the decision for dedicated, specialized care. Your exotic pet deserves nothing less.
Call us now or visit our booking page to arrange a time for your pet's next appointment.
Your Exotic Pet Care, Our Expertise. Together, creating a healthier world for your non-traditional companion.
For Clients
Hospital Hours:
Mon-Sun: Open 24 hours
Emergency
24/7/365
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