Avian, Exotic, And Zoological Medicine
Mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians have their own anatomy and physiology, and treating them requires knowledge of this diversity. We are here to guide you in providing proper dental care, environment, and nutrition for your pet.
If your avian or exotic pet needs to be admitted for a procedure or requires more in-depth, critical care, our facility includes a dedicated avian and exotics ward that is spacious and bright with temperature-controlled cages. Our staff is able to provide the highest level of care while minimizing stress.
If you find your avian or exotic pet is in need of emergency care, we are open 24/7/365. Some species may be seen with approval.
Avian, Exotic, Zoological Pet?
Exotic pets refer to any pet not commonly seen in a traditional canine/feline practice and include reptiles, birds, rabbits, rodents, exotic cats, and sometimes zoo species. Although a rabbit or guinea pig is probably not considered “exotic” by most, caring for these species requires special knowledge and training.
Zoological companion animals is the nomenclature officially used by the American College of Zoological Medicine (ACZM). That includes small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates (tarantulas, praying mantis, hermit crabs).
Zoological medicine is the same as avian and exotics.
Which species do we see?
We are trained and equipped to see almost all zoological species, from rodents to tortoises! If you are uncertain if we will be able to see your pet, call us at 201-262-0010 and we would be happy to answer any and all questions!
- Mammals: rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, mice, rats, hamsters
- Birds: parrots, finches, chickens, and others
- Reptiles (except for venomous): turtles, tortoises, lizards, snakes
- Amphibians: frogs, salamanders, and caecilians
- Fish: fresh and saltwater
- Invertebrates: tarantulas, praying mantis, hermit crab
Which services do we provide?
- Primary care and wellness exams
- Referral care
- Beak and nail trim
- Complete dental exam and teeth trimming for rodents and rabbits
- Reproductive prevention in birds (and other species by request)
- Gender identification of birds
- Infectious disease testing
- Imaging
- Surgery
- Endoscopy
- Chemotherapy (frequently consult with other departments)
If you don't see a specific service or species listed, don't hesitate to give us a call and inquire about its availability—we're always here to help meet your pet's unique needs.
Are there specialists for zoological pets?
At OAH, we pride ourselves on offering exceptional veterinary care for a diverse range of zoological companion animals. Our team includes specialists who are certified by the American College of Zoological Medicine (ACZM), ensuring your exotic pets receive the highest standard of medical expertise. The primary difference between a general practitioner and an ACZM (American College of Zoological Medicine) or ACZM-eligible veterinarian lies in their specialization and the level of expertise in specific fields of veterinary medicine. A general practitioner veterinarian completes a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, which typically involves four years of veterinary school after undergraduate studies. They are trained to provide comprehensive medical care for a wide range of animals, including pets (like dogs and cats), livestock, and sometimes exotic animals. An ACZM veterinarian is a specialist certified by the American College of Zoological Medicine. To become ACZM-certified, a veterinarian must undergo additional training beyond the DVM degree, including a residency in zoological medicine, which typically lasts 3-4 years, and extensive experience working with a wide range of non-domestic species.
Our Zoological Medicine Team
Kyra Knutson, DVM, Diplomate, ACZM
Avian, Exotics, and Zoological Medicine
Frank Boren, DVM
Primary Care & Wellness, Avian & Exotic Medicine
Special interests and significant experience in exotic and zoo animal medicine. He is the veterinarian for the Bergen County Zoo and is a consultant for The James A. McFaul Environmental Center in Wyckoff, New Jersey.
KB Brown, DVM
Emergency and Critical Care
Special interests and significant experience in small animal and exotics general practice, zoo medicine, and feline medicine.