Exotic Veterinarian in Ames, IA

Pet Medical Center is proud to be one of the only animal hospitals in Story and Polk County equipped to treat a wide variety of non-traditional companions. Our exotic specialist, Dr. Sarah, provides expert care for small mammals like rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, and gerbils. We also welcome scaly family members, including lizards, turtles, and snakes. While we do not see birds at this time, our Ames, IA clinic is fully optimized for the unique housing and medical needs of pocket pets and reptiles. We understand that these unique creatures require specialized knowledge that differs vastly from canine or feline medicine, ensuring your "extraordinary" pet receives targeted, species-specific care.

Yes, we regularly perform specialized surgical procedures tailored to the delicate needs of exotic species. Dr. Sarah is highly experienced in routine procedures such as rabbit spays and small mammal neuters, which can be easily scheduled at our Ames facility. Because safety is our top priority, Pet Medical Center requires a physical examination prior to any surgery to establish a valid Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR). This allows us to assess your pet’s health and ensure they are fit for anesthesia. From soft tissue repairs to specialized exotic surgeries, we use advanced monitoring and techniques to provide the highest standard of surgical care for your unique companions.

Exotic pets are masters at hiding illness, and their anatomy and physiology are remarkably different from cats and dogs. At Pet Medical Center in Ames, IA, we recognize that "one size does not fit all." An exotic specialist like Dr. Sarah pursues ongoing education and utilizes specialized diagnostic protocols that general practitioners may not be equipped to handle. Whether it’s specific dietary counseling for a reptile or understanding the complex GI system of a rabbit, our team has the specialized training and equipment necessary to make precise diagnoses. Relying on the right professional is critical in Ames to ensure these rare pets thrive rather than just survive.

We recommend a complete physical examination every 6 to 12 months for exotic pets in the Ames area. Because species like guinea pigs and lizards age rapidly and hide symptoms of disease, regular wellness exams at Pet Medical Center are vital for early detection. During these visits, we evaluate your pet's weight, heart, lungs, and overall condition. We also offer nutritional and behavioral consultations to help prevent common ailments associated with improper habitat or diet. By building a consistent health history with Dr. Sarah, we can spot subtle changes in your pet’s health that might otherwise go unnoticed until a condition becomes a serious emergency.

Pet Medical Center utilizes state-of-the-art in-house diagnostics to provide rapid answers for our exotic patients. Our Ames facility is equipped with digital radiography to evaluate tiny bones and internal organs, as well as an in-house laboratory for blood chemistry and CBC panels. These tools are essential for diagnosing health conditions in small mammals and reptiles who cannot tell us where it hurts. We also perform cytology and fecal exams to screen for parasites and abnormal bacteria. This advanced imaging and laboratory support allow our exotic specialist to craft accurate, evidence-based treatment plans right here in Story County, ensuring your pet gets the best chance at a quick recovery.

Absolutely. Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of health for any exotic pet, and many common diseases we see in Ames, IA, are actually preventable through correct diet. At Pet Medical Center, we offer tailored nutritional counseling for every species we treat. Whether you have a snake requiring specific feeding advice or a rabbit needing guidance on high-fiber hay, Dr. Sarah and our team provide expert insights into the unique metabolic needs of your pet. We help you navigate the often-confusing world of commercial exotic pet foods and supplements, ensuring your companion receives the vitamins and minerals necessary to prevent metabolic bone disease and other nutritional deficiencies.

For exotic pets in Ames, "acting a little quiet" can be a major red flag. Signs of a medical emergency include changes in appetite or droppings, lethargy, labored breathing, or discharge from the nose or eyes. For prey species like rabbits and guinea pigs, not eating for even 12 hours is a critical situation (GI stasis). Pet Medical Center provides emergency stabilization and specialized care for exotic pets during our regular business hours. Because these animals are so stoic, we urge Ames residents to contact us immediately if they notice any deviation from their pet's normal behavior. Our compassionate team is trained to provide the rapid intervention these unique creatures require.

Yes, especially for "pocket pets" like rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas whose teeth never stop growing. Dental disease is one of the most common issues we treat at Pet Medical Center. If teeth become misaligned (malocclusion), they can cause painful sores and prevent your pet from eating. Our Ames facility offers specialized dental assessments and trimming services for exotic mammals. During your wellness exam, Dr. Sarah will check for overgrown molars or incisors. Maintaining oral health is essential for preventing systemic infections and ensuring your pet can continue to enjoy their favorite foods comfortably throughout their lifetime here in Story County.

Behavioral health is just as important as physical health for non-traditional pets. At Pet Medical Center, we provide behavioral consultations to help improve your relationship with your exotic companion and enhance their well-being. Whether you are dealing with a rabbit that is displaying aggression or a reptile that is stressed by its enclosure, our team can offer insights into species-specific behaviors and environmental enrichment. We understand the "soul" behind the science, and our goal is to help Ames pet owners create a stress-free environment that meets their pet's instinctual needs. This holistic approach helps prevent many stress-related illnesses common in captive exotic animals.

Booking an appointment at Pet Medical Center of Ames is designed to be easy and stress-free. Simply click the "Request An Appointment" button on our website or call/text our office directly. We recommend completing any requested forms 24 hours before your visit to maximize your time with Dr. Sarah. We serve our neighbors in Nevada, Kelley, Huxley, and the surrounding Des Moines communities, providing a welcoming "family" atmosphere for all types of pets. From the moment you arrive, your scaly or furry friend will be treated with the meticulous attention to detail and profound respect they deserve as a vital part of your family.