Exotic Pets

We have the experience and knowledge to look after your pets no matter what species they are.

We have vets with a special interest in exotic pet species, based at Pride Veterinary Centre.

We are happy to offer veterinary consultations for most exotics, including:

  • Small furries
  • Reptiles
  • Birds
  • Amphibians
  • … and more!
Register your pet

Book an appointment

To book an exotic pet appointment at Pride Veterinary Centre, please call 01332 678333

Or use our booking form to request an appointment

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Exotics Veterinary Team

We also offer specialist referral services for exotic pet species at Pride Veterinary Centre, headed up by Exotics Specialist Sara Dias. Sara is supported by vet Chilita and Veterinary Nurse Emily.

Exotics team

Services for Exotics

We offer the following veterinary services for exotic pet species:

  • Routine health checks and advice
  • Beak trimming and claw clipping
  • Sexing
  • Anorexic patient support and treatment
  • Medical investigations and treatment such as, Nebulisation for respiratory diseases, Ultrasonography and Digital x-ray.

Use our booking form to request an appointment

Request an appointment
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Surgical procedures for exotics

  • Exploratory laparototomy – tortoises, reptiles, birds
  • Reproductive disorder correction (egg binding, pre and post ovulatory follicles)
  • Impactions/blockages
  • Peritonitis treatment
  • Foreign body removal
  • Bladder stone removal
  • Fracture fixation
  • Traumatic wound treatment and closure

Practices withExotics Vets

Pride Veterinary Centre

01332 678333
Riverside Road, Pride Park, Derby DE24 8HX
View details
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Referral Services For Exotic Pets

Should your pet require more specialist treatment, we offer referral services for exotics at Pride Veterinary Centre.

Headed up by Exotics Specialist Sara Dias, we offer a range of investigations and treatments, including:

  • Medicine
  • Surgery
  • Diagnostic Imaging
  • On-site Laboratory

Referrals can be made to us by your regular vet.

Learn more about Exotic Pet Referrals

Things to consider when choosing an exotic pet

Your choice of exotic pet needs to be based on your ability to provide adequate housing, space, attention & veterinary care. This is because inappropriate housing, environment and diet are by far the most common health issues we see.

It is important to get it right, and we can help check that your potential choice of pet can fit with you.

  • You should learn all you can about a potential pet before bringing it home and have all the necessary equipment and supplies ready.
  • Consider what size and type of housing will be necessary. Bigger housing is often better. Climbing species require more vertical height than ground space.
  • Think about what special equipment may be needed such as ultraviolet lighting which may need changing every 6 months, hygrometers for humidity and thermostat controlled heating sources.
  • Keep in mind that housing, supplies, food, veterinary care, and other expenses are often far greater than the cost of the pet itself. Carefully consider what you can afford when choosing a pet and look at pet insurance.
  • Consider their potential size: Larger pets need more space and exercise, and may be more difficult and dangerous to handle. Iguanas can grow to 6ft (1.8m) and are incredibly strong.
  • Do you want a pet that enjoys human interaction and can be held? or a pet that is happier without regular handling? Some species are more social than others.
  • Commercially prepared food may be available for several exotic pet species, but most will require freshly prepared foods. Foods may vary depending on age & life cycles. This may include a variety of fresh vegetables for herbivores, live insects for insectivores and even frozen mice and chicks for the carnivores.
  • If your life circumstances change will you still be able to care for your pet?
  • Will a new pet get along with other pets in the home?
  • It is a good idea to have a veterinarian lined up to care for your pet as not all vets are able to deal with exotic pets.
  • Some species can live a very long time and are a life-long commitment. Tortoises can often outlive their owners, and may require provisions in your will.
  • Some pets are very active and require lots of exercise, others will be quieter.
  • Some animals carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans (Zoonotic Diseases). This is an important consideration if there are household members with vulnerable immune systems as some Salmonella can be commonly found in all reptile species. Also some pets can be aggressive, dangerous, or even toxic.

Please contact us if you would like any further advice or information about things to consider when purchasing an exotic pet.