Omar Zaheer

DVM, Dipl. ACZM
Dr. Zaheer
Veterinary Specialist
Zoological Medicine - Avian, Exotic, & Pocket Pet Veterinary Clinic Services
Dr. Zaheer

At a Glance

Practicing Since:

2016

Specialties Include:

Zoological Medicine

My Pets:

 

Dr. Omar Zaheer graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) in 2016. Following graduation, he completed a small animal rotating internship at the Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Toronto before returning to the OVC for a specialty avian & exotic internship. Following completion of this internship, he completed a residency at the OVC in avian & exotic medicine & surgery from 2018-2021. He published several articles during his residency, including a new surgical technique for cloacal prolapse in pet parrots, an anesthetic study on quaker parrots, and several case reports on pet exotics including chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Some of this work was presented at the Association of Avian Veterinarians conference in 2020. Dr. Zaheer currently teaches third year veterinary students the avian, reptile, and amphibian units of Comparative Animal Medicine.

Dr. Zaheer has had a life-long passion for avian medicine, but loves all exotic animals. He grew up with budgerigars and cockatiels, and has volunteered and worked as a parrot, raptor, and exotic bird keeper & educator. He provides medical and surgical procedures for most exotic companion species, including small mammals (ex. rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, rodents, etc.), birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

Outside of work, Dr. Zaheer enjoys spending time with his family and friends, watching reality TV and crime shows, and doing puzzles.

Education
DVM, Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph ON – (2016)

Advanced Clinical Training
Small Animal Rotating Internship, Veterinary Emergency Clinic, Toronto ON - (2016-2017)
Avian and Exotic Animal Specialty Internship, Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph ON – (2017-2018)
Zoological Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery Residency, Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph ON – (2018-2021)

See our departments

Zoological Medicine - Avian, Exotic, & Pocket Pet Veterinary Clinic Services

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.

What is Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine?

A growing number of people are caring for small animals that would be considered by many to be non-traditional pets. These pets include:

  • Companion birds such as finches, canaries, parrots, pigeons, and pet poultry (ducks, chickens, etc.)
  • Waterfowl
  • Raptors such as hawks and falcons
  • Reptiles such as turtles, snakes, and lizards
  • Tortoises
  • Amphibians such as frogs, toads, salamanders, and axolotls
  • Rabbits
  • Ferrets
  • Guinea pigs, chinchillas and degus
  • Hedgehogs
  • Rats and mice
  • Hamsters and gerbils
  • Sugar gliders
  • Tarantulas and scorpions
  • Fish including aquarium and pond species
  • Select Zoological mammals 


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.

Why should my avian/exotic pet see an exotic veterinarian specialist?

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.

What kinds of health problems can be treated in avian and exotic pets?

We offer state-of-the-art preventative and surgical health care for these exotic pets. Working with other specialty services, veterinarians, we provide expert care for your avian/exotic pet with advanced diagnostic and treatment services, including:
  • Dentistry and endoscopic oral examinations for rabbits and rodents
  • Cardiology
  • Dermatology
  • Orthopedic and soft tissue surgery
  • Ophthalmology
  • Neurology
  • Diagnostic imaging such as digital radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT scan) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Laparoscopy, Endoscopy and Coelioscopy 
  • 24 hour nursing care Emergency and critical care for avian/exotic pets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

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. 

Unmatched Expertise in Exotic Pet Care

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.

Why Choose Our Exotic Pet Care Services

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.

Our Commitment to Your Exotic Pets

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.

Ready for World-Class Exotic Pet Care?

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:

  1. Explore our services to find the perfect match for your companion's requirements.
  1. Contact us with any questions or concerns; we're here to guide you every step of the way.
  1. Contact or Zoological Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery department today on 905-953-1933 for your precious exotic pet and experience unparalleled veterinary care.


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

Our Zoological Medicine - Avian, Exotic, & Pocket Pet Veterinary Clinic Services Team

404 Veterinary Emergency and Referral Hospital

510 Harry Walker Parkway South

Newmarket, ON L3Y 0B3

Main: 905-953-1933

Fax: 905-953-8845

Hospital Hours:

    Mon-Sun: Open 24 hours

Emergency
24/7/365

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