Clinical Activities and Procedures |
| The veterinarians of the Companion Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine and Surgery
Service work in conjunction with other specialty services within the VMTH (i.e.
behavior, cardiology, dentistry, dermatology, neurology, oncology, and
ophthalmology). By working cooperatively with these other services, specialized
imaging, radiation oncology, and surgery (including the use of a variety of laser
units) are also available for exotic animal patients. Specialized imaging services
for exotic patients include magnified radiographic capabilities (high detail skull
films and small patient evaluation), ultrasound, fluoroscopy (including
gastrointestinal motility studies of avian patients), CT, MRI, and endoscopy.
Endoscopic capabilities include standard small animal procedures,
(tracheoscopy, bronchoscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy, laparoscopy etc.) in
addition to having the ability to evaluate extremely small avian patients
(complete tracheoscopy of cockatiels, flexible endoscopy of the gastrointestinal
tract of lovebirds/cockatiels). A mobile service is also available for flock or herd examinations of birds, reptiles, and small exotic mammals in breeding facilities or other large collections. This service can provide consultation for specialized aviculture or breeding needs such as housing, nutrition, and overall medical management of the facility. The Companion Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine and Surgery Service, and the Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service have a particular interest in developing diagnostic modalities and medical/surgical options for dental disease in small exotic mammals. Dental problems are common in pet rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs and rats, and these problems can have a profound effect on their overall health. The management of cases is complicated by the difficulty in examining their small oral cavities, the nature of their dentition, the careful anesthesia required and the supportive care indicated. In a joint effort to improve the clinical management of these cases, the Dentistry and Oral Surgery Service, and the Companion Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine Service, welcome these referrals. Comprehensive oral examination, including dental radiographs, is routinely performed, and advanced dental procedures, such as occlusal adjustments and sophisticated extraction techniques, are available for these patients. |