Care for Birds, Reptiles & Mammals in Long Island
Our state-of-the-art avian and exotic medicine and surgery department is devoted exclusively to the care of birds and other small exotic pets. We are proud to offer a complete range of wellness and preventive care services, surgical procedures and emergency care for birds, pocket pets, ferrets, rabbits, snakes, turtles and more.
Our dedicated avian and exotic treatment area and ICU is the first of its kind in the Long Island area. We've tailored every aspect of this space to meet the needs of our avian and exotic patients, right down to the lighting and paint. We are also able to heat each enclosure individually and deliver oxygen directly to each animal.
Our goal is to provide the highest quality care to our patients and to share as much information with our clients as possible. We are happy to answer any questions that you may have and will make time for discussion about your pet's health and care.
Please Note: A referral is not required for exotic pets.
Specialized Care for Avian & Exotic Pets
Dr. Jonathan Mehlrose, DVM, has honed his training to gain an in-depth understanding of the medical requirements of a broad spectrum of exotic pets including small companion mammals, reptiles and birds.
Wellness Exams & Preventive Care
Routine care, including preventive care, dentistry and wellness exams, helps your pet to lead a long, healthy life. Our veterinarian understands the unique needs of these species and the preventive care they need to thrive.
During a wellness visit, we will review your pet’s housing, nutrition, and at-home care, and perform a thorough physical exam. Species-specific health screening tests and vaccines will be discussed and recommended if applicable.
We are happy to take the time needed to discuss any concerns related to behavior or nutrition with you and make any recommendations as needed.
Appointments, Referrals & Emergencies
The avian and exotic medicine and surgery department is available for scheduled appointments and procedures, as well as for referrals, consultations, and emergencies.
If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency with your exotic pet , please call our hospital to notify us that an avian or exotic pet is on the way with an emergency. This notification allows us to be better prepared for the specific emergency you might be coming in for, and to notify our board-certified specialist that you are on your way during non-appointment hours.
Avian & Exotic Pets We Treat
At Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island, we provide dedicated, advanced veterinary care for exotic pets including:
Birds
Parrots, finches, canaries, backyard poultry, and others.
Exotic Mammals
Ferrets, rabbits, pot-bellied pigs, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and others.
Reptiles & Amphibians
Lizards, turtles and tortoises, snakes, and others.
Exotic Pet FAQs
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What does a veterinarian for exotic mammals do?
Much like cats and dogs, small mammals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, and other exotic pets benefit from routine care to help keep them happy and healthy throughout their lifetime. Our vet has extensive training and experience in the unique care and husbandry needs and veterinary treatment of these species.
Specifically, our veterinarians at Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island perform routine exams, conduct assessments and provide diagnostics and treatment for health conditions and illnesses as well as emergency care.
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What can I expect at an exotic appointment?
When you bring your exotic mammal in for a routine exam, we will assess your pet's overall health. We will perform a thorough physical examination, recommend the appropriate preventive care, and answer any questions you may have about your pet to help ensure their health and longevity.
Key areas that are covered during routine visits include:
- Wellness Exam
- Bloodwork
- Spay / Neuter
- DNA Sexing
- Nutritional Consulting
- Behavior
- Grooming
- Health Certificates
- Vaccinations
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Do you offer sick pet appointments and daytime emergency care for exotic animals?
Birds and other exotic pets with health or behavior concerns can be seen by our vet. If possible, please call (631) 587-0800 in advance to confirm the availability of our vets and avoid disappointment.
While we do accept walk-in and work-in emergencies for exotic pets, there may be an additional fee if double booking of appointments occurs.
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What is an exotic mammal?
Exotic mammals are small animals including rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, chinchillas, rats, mice, hamsters and gerbils. Many exotic pets are prey species in the wild and consequently can be very good at hiding the signs of illness until it is quite advanced. This makes routine checkups and preventive care a critical part of their lifelong care.
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What is the avian species?
The avian species involves any and all things in relation to birds. These small exotic animals have become popular pets for people seeking intelligent, affectionate companions with an abundance of personality.
Many birds are prey species in the wild and may hide signs of illness as a defense mechanism against predators, making consistent, qualified preventive veterinary care critical to their health and well-being.
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What are reptiles?
Reptiles are air-breathing vertebrates. Covered in special skin made of bony plates, hard scales or a combination of both, they regularly shed an outer layer of skin. These can include iguanas, tortoises, lizards, turtles, snakes and more.
To give your pet reptile the best chance at a healthy life, habitat and diet must be meticulously maintained. As it is with other pets, preventive care is crucial for the ongoing health of a reptile.