Exotic pets - including birds, reptiles, rabbits, rodents, fish, and more - are just as deserving of quality medical care as any cat or dog, but finding a knowledgeable veterinarian in this area can be difficult. At Pieper, our experienced and capable Avian & Exotics specialty team is here to help make sure your pet receives all the care they need to be happy and healthy - no matter what species they are.
Call us at (860) 347-8387 to schedule an appointment.
In the world of veterinary medicine, avian and exotic animals (also known as Zoological Companion Animals, or ZCAs) are terms that apply to virtually any animal that is not a cat, dog, or large farm animal. When your exotic pet is in need of urgent or advanced medical care, a board-certified specialist is the best person to get them the care that they need. This might mean undergoing advanced diagnostics like CT and blood work, advanced surgeries and procedures, or round-the-clock supportive care.
Regardless of species, all pets should see a veterinarian for yearly examinations and preventative care. Many times when exotic animals become ill, they have been sick for a long time. Our exotics and emergency departments are here for those difficult moments, but sometimes problems can be addressed long before they cause an issue. Annual wellness exams are essential for every animal, and we can make a plan for wellness and at-home care that may help your pet, regardless of species, live a healthy life.
Avian & Exotic Pet Veterinarian FAQs
Our avian veterinarian services & exotic animal department offers a wide range of services including specialty referral care, emergency care, and primary care.
Dr. Sojka is available from Wednesday - Saturday, 8am - 5pm.
For all other hours, Pieper emergency room veterinarians can provide basic assessment and triage for some common conditions in those species, and can transfer them to the care of Dr. Sojka as needed.
Services Offered:
- Advanced imaging (CT/MRI)
- Endoscopy
- Soft tissue surgery
- Orthopedic surgery
- Infectious disease management and treatment
- Spays, neuters, and dental procedures
- Chronic disease management
- Nail, wing, and beak trims (for existing patients)
- Reproductive wellness
- Husbandry discussions and planning for new exotic pets
- Annual wellness exams (including vaccinations)
- International health certificates
Species We Treat:
- Large parrots, including macaws, cockatoos, African grays, and Amazons
- Small parrots, including budgerigars (parakeets), cockatiels, and conures (excluding Monk/Quaker parrots)
- Doves and pigeons
- Chickens, domestic species of ducks and geese
- Domestic rabbits
- Guinea pigs, chinchillas, and hamsters
- Gerbils, mice, and rats
- Hedgehogs
- Sugar gliders
- Bearded dragons, geckos, chameleons, iguanas, and other lizards
- Turtles and tortoises
- Snakes (non-venomous) including boas and pythons
- Frogs, salamanders, and newts
- Fish (freshwater and saltwater)
- Tarantulas, hermit crabs, and other invertebrates
- Raptors (including falcons, owls, hawks, and eagles)
Our full Avian & Exotics service is also offered to zoos, aquariums, and appropriately-permitted sanctuaries and rehab facilities.
Any species of animal which are illegal to keep under Connecticut law cannot be treated at Pieper Veterinary. All patients must be legally-owned and/or appropriately-permitted. For wild animals, please contact a state-appointed rehabilitator.
Working with your primary care veterinarian
Your general practice veterinarian is an important part of your pet’s health and we work as an extension of their services when advanced or after-hours treatment is necessary. We will notify your veterinarian that your pet visited our avian and exotics specialty service, and provide them with treatment and follow-up information to continue your pet’s care once you leave our hospital.
