Exotic Pets
Expert Care for Your Extraordinary Companions
At Golf Rose Animal Hospital, we understand that your exotic pet holds a special place in your heart. Our dedicated exotic animal veterinarian, Dr. Billy Wright, provides comprehensive medical care for a wide variety of exotic companion animals with the same level of expertise and compassion we offer to traditional pets.
Meet Dr. Billy Wright
Dr. Wright is committed to providing exceptional care for exotic and unusual pets. As a member of the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV), Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV), and the Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV), he stays at the forefront of exotic animal medicine through continuing education and professional collaboration.
Dr. Wright is also USDA certified for health certificates for birds and rabbits, as well as dogs, cats, and other animals.
Exotic Species We Treat
- Rabbits
- Rodents (Guinea Pigs, Chinchillas, Hamsters, Mice, Rats)
- Ferrets
- Hedgehogs
- Sugar Gliders
- Other commonly kept exotic mammals
- Parrots (excluding Macaws and Cockatoos currently)
- Poultry (Chickens, Ducks, Turkeys)
- Owned songbirds (Canaries, Pigeons, Doves, Starlings)
- Lizards
- Snakes
- Tortoises and Turtles
- All commonly kept exotic reptiles
- Frogs
- Toads
- Salamanders (excluding axolotls currently)
- And more!
Don’t see your pet listed? Call us to inquire if we can accommodate your unique companion!
Comprehensive Exotic Pet Services
We offer a wide range of medical services for exotic pets, including:
Preventative Care
- Wellness examinations
- Species-appropriate vaccines
- Nutritional counseling
- Husbandry recommendations
Diagnostic Services
- Comprehensive bloodwork
- Cytology
- Digital X-rays
- Ultrasound
Treatment Options
- Medical management of illnesses
- Surgical procedures (routine and specialized)
- Spay and neuter services for applicable species
- End-of-life care and humane euthanasia
Additional Services
- Emergency care (during Dr. Wright’s working hours)
- Potential hospitalization/24-hour care when needed
- Health certificates for travel (USDA certified)
Please note: We are currently working to add exotic pet dentistry services in the future.
Is It an Exotic Pet Emergency?
Most exotic species are prey animals that instinctively hide signs of illness until their condition is advanced. Even mild symptoms can indicate a critical state. If you notice any of the following signs, please contact us immediately:
For ALL Exotic Species
- Respiratory distress/trouble breathing
- Bleeding (any amount)
- Lethargy or inability to move
- Vomiting/regurgitation
- Seizures
- Any trauma
- Straining to urinate/defecate
- Prolapse of any tissue
Mammals
Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Chinchillas, Hamsters, Mice, Rats:
- Not eating for more than 4 hours
- Refusing treats
- Not producing feces for more than 4 hours
- Any diarrhea (even mild)
Ferrets:
- Not eating for more than 12 hours
- Not producing feces for more than 12 hours
- Black tarry colored feces
- Moderate to severe diarrhea
Birds
All Birds:
- Not eating/decreased appetite
- Straining to lay eggs
- Fluffed appearance or behavior
Parrots:
- Decreased vocalization/talking (quieter than normal)
Poultry (Chickens, Ducks, Turkeys):
- Isolation from the rest of the flock
- Being picked on by other birds
Reptiles
- Discharge from mouth/nose
- Popping/clicking sounds when breathing
- Swollen joints/limbs
Schedule an Appointment
To make an appointment for your exotic pet with Dr. Wright, please call our office at (847) 885-3344. For emergencies during business hours, please call ahead so we can prepare for your arrival.
Note: Emergency and after-hours care is available only when Dr. Wright is on duty. Please call to confirm availability.
