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Exotic Vet in Clifton Park, NY

At Cornerstone Veterinary Hospital of Clifton Park, we know that animal companions come in many shapes and sizes—and we think each one deserves the highest level of care. And if you’re looking for an exotic vet, we have two!

Schedule your exotic pet visit online or call us at (518) 383-6254 to schedule.

Make an Appointment

Exotic Pets We Can Treat

Our vets can see small mammals, including:

  • Guinea pigs
  • Rabbits
  • Ferrets
  • Hamsters
  • Rats
  • Gerbils

Dr. Diana Pogorzelski treats small mammals along with various reptiles and amphibians, including:

  • Bearded dragons
  • Frogs
  • Toads
  • Turtles

Dr. Pogorzelski can even treat some pet insects!

Services Provided by Our Exotic Vets

Services our veterinarians provide to exotic pets include:

  • Well pet exams
  • Sick pet exams
  • Nail trims
  • Surgery
  • Diagnostics (blood work/urinalysis, digital X-ray and ultrasound)

Common Issues for Exotic Pets

Our exotic vets are familiar with many of the common problems reptiles and small mammals face. Unfortunately, many health problems are the result of improper husbandry. Taking care of an exotic pet requires a unique approach for every species. During your pet’s wellness visit, your exotic vet will talk to you about your individual pet’s husbandry needs and make sure they’re getting the care they require at home!

dr diana holding lizard

Husbandry Consultation

We’ll cover a lot of topics when you visit us with your exotic pet, including:

Diet

Your pet’s diet needs to include all the nutrients they would normally get in the wild. They should be fed a diet as close to their natural diet as possible, such as hay for rabbits or whole mice in the case of snakes. In many cases, it is best to add supplements, like calcium for bearded dragons.

Habitat

For exotic pets, it’s essential that their enclosure matches their natural habitat as closely as possible. This is especially true for reptiles, where different species have a variety of specific requirements. Many require a UVB light since improper UV exposure can affect your reptile’s health. Temperature is another key point, especially since many species are from tropical areas. The humidity and sanitation of the enclosure are also important as poor sanitary conditions can cause skin infections.

Socialization

Not all pets love company. Many reptiles prefer their own enclosures and solitude, while small mammals like guinea pigs or sugar gliders love a pal or two. Do your research to determine if your exotic pet would prefer to be on their own or in a crowd.

Handling

Handling your pet should cause them as little stress as possible. Often, rabbits and small mammals enjoy human touch and will more readily form bonds with their owners. Most reptiles prefer minimal handling, yet some, like bearded dragons and turtles, can enjoy more contact with their owners, especially if the handling is started at a young age. When handling your pet, always be sure to support their full body weight and make sure there’s not too much activity or too many people around. Be attentive to your pet’s needs and try to only engage them on their terms.

Your pet’s diet needs to include all the nutrients they would normally get in the wild. They should be fed a diet as close to their natural diet as possible, such as hay for rabbits or whole mice in the case of snakes. In many cases, it is best to add supplements, like calcium for bearded dragons.

For exotic pets, it’s essential that their enclosure matches their natural habitat as closely as possible. This is especially true for reptiles, where different species have a variety of specific requirements. Many require a UVB light since improper UV exposure can affect your reptile’s health. Temperature is another key point, especially since many species are from tropical areas. The humidity and sanitation of the enclosure are also important as poor sanitary conditions can cause skin infections.

Not all pets love company. Many reptiles prefer their own enclosures and solitude, while small mammals like guinea pigs or sugar gliders love a pal or two. Do your research to determine if your exotic pet would prefer to be on their own or in a crowd.

Handling your pet should cause them as little stress as possible. Often, rabbits and small mammals enjoy human touch and will more readily form bonds with their owners. Most reptiles prefer minimal handling, yet some, like bearded dragons and turtles, can enjoy more contact with their owners, especially if the handling is started at a young age. When handling your pet, always be sure to support their full body weight and make sure there’s not too much activity or too many people around. Be attentive to your pet’s needs and try to only engage them on their terms.