Avian & Exotics

Aquatic Turtles Aquatic turtles are beautiful, intelligent, and captivating pets that require dedicated care. With appropriate care and habitats, turtles will delight owners with their behavior and interactions. Housing/Enclosure Aquatic turtles need a large enclosure. As a general rule, the water depth should be at least one and a half to two times the turtle’s carapace (shell) length. For example, a five-inch turtle will need a 40-55 gallon tank. Space should be doubled for turtles…

Background Information on Ferrets Ferrets are playful, friendly animals that can make excellent pets for the right person. Ferrets may not be the best pet for young children or in households with birds, rabbits, rodents, or lizards due to their predatory nature. Most ferrets sold in pet stores come from a commercial breeder where they have been neutered and de-scented. Even though they are de-scented, they still have a natural musky odor. Diet Recommendations for…

What is Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease? Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is a serious viral disease that may cause a high rate of infection and death in rabbits. It does not cause disease in humans or animals other than rabbits. It is caused by a Calicivirus, which can survive for weeks in the environment, and can be spread over short distances on objects such as articles of clothing, and therefore can be spread easily and rapidly. Why…

Spaying and neutering pet rabbits and guinea pigs can help them have the longest and healthiest life possible. Below are medical reasons supporting spaying and neutering: Eliminates the risk of uterine or testicular cancer. Female rabbits and guinea pigs are at a much higher risk of developing uterine cancer as compared to other pets, such as dogs and cats. Depending on the breed, up to 60% will develop cancer by middle age. Spaying eliminates…

Sugar Gliders Sugar gliders are small, nocturnal marsupials that are native to the eastern coast of Australia and New Guinea. If provided with proper nutrition, husbandry, and socialization, they can make excellent pets for older children and adults. Housing/Enclosure The minimum cage size for a single sugar glider is 36 inches x 24 inches x 36 inches. The bar spacing should be no more than 1/4 inch apart. PVC coated metal cages are preferred. We…