Skip to main navigation Skip to main content

A parakeet in a cage

Veterinary Care for Special Pets: Exotics , Small Mammals, and Birds

A turtle dental cleaning

Dupont Veterinary Clinic values each of our clients’ pets, and understands that all kinds of animals can become treasured companions. Our practice happily accepts and treats exotic pets including birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Just like dogs and cats, exotic pets and birds benefit from routine veterinary care to stay healthy. We welcome the opportunity to get to know your special companion, and to provide trusted veterinary advice and treatment for your bird or exotic pet.

We routinely treat a wide assortment of exotic pets, including:

A guinea pig getting an exam

Small Mammals

  • Rodents—Rats, hamsters, guinea pigs, chinchilla
  • Rabbits
  • Hedgehogs
  • Sugar gliders
  • Ferrets
Bearded dragons with an iguana

Reptiles

  • Lizards
  • Snakes
  • Turtles
  • Tortoises
Macaw

Birds

We see a wide variety of birds, including:

  • Psittacine (Parrots)
  • Passerines (canaries, finches, also known as perching birds)
  • Waterfowl
  • Poultry

And more—call to inquire!

Dr. Boxberger with a mouse

Special Pets Require Special Care

Appropriate nutrition, housing, and daily care are keys to keeping exotic pets healthy, happy, and disease-free. Many exotics have very specific needs and their health can suffer if they’re not given the proper care. Since many of the places that sell these species provide a wide array of differing resources, pet owners often don’t know how to provide correct care.

Check out our helpful links and recommendations for more information about avian and exotic care.

Dr. Boxberger with an avian patient

Our Special Veterinarian

Clinic veterinarian Dr. Amy Boxberger has a special interest in avian, reptile, and small mammal veterinary medicine. She is experienced in treating a variety of birds and exotic pets. Dr. Boxberger will work with you to help you understand the special needs of these unique animals. Services provided for exotic pets include:

  • Husbandry advice (guidance for feeding, housing, daily care, and even behavior)
  • Preventive care
  • Diagnosis and treatment in the case of disease or injury
  • Surgery (including spay and neuter for some animals)
  • Sexing (gender determination)

To schedule a veterinary appointment for your bird, small mammal, or reptile, call us and ask to see Dr. Boxberger.

Before We See Your Pet

Before your appointment with our veterinarian, we may ask you to fill out a background sheet so we can get more important information about your pet before your visit.

Exotics Background Sheets

Wildlife

We currently do not see wildlife in our practice. For more information about helping injured or distressed wildlife, please visit the Indiana Department of Natural Resources website to learn more about the Indiana DNR Permitted Wildlife Rehabilitators program.


Located on the northside of Fort Wayne, we happily serve local animals, as well as pets in nearby towns like Huntertown, Leo, Grabill, and Garrett. Contact us to schedule an appointment for your pet.