Exotic Pet Care
At Riverside South Animal Hospital, we know that exotic pets require unique veterinary care. Our veterinarians provide experienced, compassionate care for birds, rabbits, rats, guinea pigs and hamsters alongside our dog and cat patients.
What Is Exotic Pet Care?
Exotic pet care focuses on the health and well-being of animals beyond dogs and cats. Birds, rabbits, and small mammals often need different diets, environments, and preventive health measures. These pets are also skilled at hiding illness, making routine checkups essential.
What to Expect During an Exotic Pet Visit
A typical appointment may include:

Thorough physical examination and weight check



Why Exotic Pet Care Is Important
Exotic Rabbits & Guinea Pigs have very specific needs, and many health problems can arise if their diet or environment isn’t properly managed. For example:
- Rabbits & Birds are prone to dental overgrowth that can make eating painful.
- Birds often mask signs of illness until conditions are advanced, making early detection critical.
- Preventative disease measures can be discussed and implemented.
Regular veterinary visits help detect these issues early, before they cause significant suffering. In addition, our veterinarians provide guidance on nutrition, habitat enrichment, and husbandry to help prevent many of the most common conditions.
Neglecting routine care for exotic pets can result in sudden, severe illness. By scheduling regular exams, you ensure your pet’s health and longevity while giving yourself peace of mind.
Benefits of Exotic Pet Care
- Early detection of illness in species that hide symptoms
- Guidance on proper nutrition and habitat care
- Improved quality of life through enrichment advice
- Preventive care to avoid serious medical concerns
Expert Exotic Pet Care in Ottawa, ON
Our veterinarians and support staff are experienced in treating a wide variety of exotic species, with training in rabbit, small mammal and avian medicine. We understand how stressful a clinic visit can be for sensitive animals, so we adapt our approach to keep them calm and comfortable.
As Fear Free Certified Practitioners, we minimize stress for pets and owners alike. Our modern diagnostic tools, including digital X-rays and in-house lab testing, allow us to quickly assess unusual species and provide targeted treatment plans.
Families across Ottawa and Riverside South have trusted us with their exotic pets for nearly two decades, making us a reliable local choice for specialized veterinary care.
Schedule Your Exotic Pet Appointment Today
Whether you share your home with a parrot, rabbit, guinea pig or other small mammal, our team is here to help. Book an exotic pet appointment at Riverside South Animal Hospital today.




