Navigating Surgical Challenges in Exotic Pets

Exotic pet species need care every bit as much as dogs and cats, and this can often include surgical procedures. When your unconventional companion needs surgery, you want someone experienced in the unique surgical challenges in exotic pets. At Animal Care Unlimited, we are prepared for most species, great and small. 

Exotic Pet Surgeries

Many exotic species will need to have a surgical procedure at some point in their life. These surgeries can vary, but common veterinary procedures for exotic animals include:

• Tumor removal or biopsy
• Orthopedic surgeries 
• Beak trims or repairs
• Crop surgery
• Surgical treatment of abscesses
• Spaying or neutering
• Dental surgery

Each individual pet will have different needs. Some surgeries may be recommended as preventive or maintenance care, while others may be necessary due to illness or injury. 

Routine wellness visits for your exotic pet can help us to recommend these types of procedures as needed, and prevent certain health issues. A thorough assessment of each individual can help to clearly identify the risks and benefits of potential surgical procedures. 

Unique Surgical Challenges in Exotic Pets

Exotic pet surgeries for reptiles, birds, and small mammals can certainly present some unique challenges. Surgical care for unconventional companions requires specialized knowledge and skills that only experience can bring. Our staff is up to the task and ready to navigate:

• Unique anatomy and physiology: Exotic species are all different because, well, they are all different species. Diverse anatomical structures, physiological adaptations, and unique metabolism of various medications can make each surgery a totally different experience. 
• Exotic pet anesthesia challenges: Anesthesia is a critical part of surgery and always an adventure. Exotic species may have very different responses to an anesthetic event. Unique anesthetic agents, drug protocols, dosages, and monitoring must be adapted to each species. 
• Specialized surgical technique: Due to the unique and often tiny anatomy of most exotic pets, specialized surgical instruments, suture, and equipment is often necessary for a successful procedure. 
• Knowledge for postoperative care: The recovery and postoperative care after exotic pet surgery can be challenging. Our knowledgeable team is prepared to provide the right environmental and nutritional support to help your pet recover well. Good pain management and appropriate rehabilitation therapy is also key. 

Performing surgery on exotic pet species demands a high level of knowledge, finely tuned skills, and special resources. Should your pet need to have a surgical procedure, we are happy to help. Contact us today to get started.