Are you treating all creatures great and small?
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| Category | Journal Articles |
|---|---|
| Abstract |
The exotic pet turning up in the waiting room of the local practice is a growing trend. Their owners expect veterinarians to be able to see and triage most species, but is this a fair expectation? Should vets be able to see and treat all creatures great and small or are those days of James Herriot long past? Whatever your view, more people are keeping reptiles and birds while rabbits and fish are as popular as ever with the latter two competing for the place of third most favoured UK pet. With increasingly busy lifestyles, and with more people living in flats and houses with small to non-existent gardens, this trend is likely to continue. These animals fit a growing niche, and as long as they are kept properly, can give their owners just as much fulfilment as a dog, cat or horse. Of course, when owners are choosing an exotic pet, it is a complex decision requiring a lot of thought before any money is parted with. Veterinary surgeons have a responsibility to encourage good and healthy pet ownership and this should include educating owners on correct husbandry for their pets. Vets need to work with owners and the pet trade to ensure accurate advice is given regarding the species being sold. Exotics include rabbits and rodents, reptiles, birds, amphibians, fish, invertebrates, wildlife and zoological collections. Often, exotic vets will also see backyard poultry and pygmy goats and pigs as well. |
| Publication Title | Veterinary Business Journal |
| Issue | 144 |
| Pages | 15-17 |
| ISBN/ISSN | 1474-1652 |
| Language | English |
| Author Address | The Cambridge Veterinary Group, Cambridge, UK. |
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