FAQs about Avian and Exotic Animal Care

My pet seems perfectly healthy, why do I have to bring it in for an annual exam?

Most exotic animals hide their illnesses in order to survive in the wild. It is important for the health of your pet to have annual physical exams and lab work to assess signs of illness and prevent future problems. It also gives us an opportunity to share new information with you and discuss any questions that may have come up over the year regarding behavior, nutrition, or husbandry issues.

What should you expect at your first/annual wellness exam with your bird?

Download this pdf article about what to expect when you bring your bird to an avian veterinarian at the Center »

What are your hours?

M-F: 9am-8pm, Sat + Sun: 9am-5pm

Do you see birds….hamsters…..guinea pigs……turtles…..lizards….?

Yes, we see any kind of pet that is not a cat or a dog. For more information on the types of animals we see click Scheduling a Visit with a Vet.

What is included in a veterinary exam?

A complete 30 minute consultation, physical exam, and husbandry evaluation.

What is husbandry?

Husbandry is how you care and provide for your pet (e.g. diet, exercise, environment, socializing, housing, etc.)

Do you board pets?

Yes. Please click boarding requirements for more information.

Do you groom pets?

Yes. A yearly physical exam is required for routine grooming.

I just found an injured wild pigeon, what do I do?

Call the Wild Bird Fund at 646-306-2862. We do not see un-owned wildlife at our hospital due to the risk of infectious disease.
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Do you have an emergency service?

Yes. A staff member is on call 24 hours a day and can be paged by calling the regular hospital number and following the prompts to leave an emergency message. This service is available for established clients and their pets.

Do you sell food?

Yes. We carry a varied selection of pelleted bird diets and special diets for sick or overweight birds. For small mammals, we offer several grass hays and pelleted food. We also offer a variety of vitamin and homeopathic supplements.

Do you have pets for adoption?

Yes. Please view Adoption page for more information.