Exotic Pet Veterinary Care in Sydney

Exotic Pet Veterinary Care in Sydney

We’re here for you and your patient

Exotic pets have unique medical, anatomical, and husbandry needs that differ significantly from those of dogs and cats. These species require specialised veterinary knowledge, careful handling, and tailored diagnostics to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Our Exotics Service provides advanced veterinary care for non-traditional companion animals, supported by experienced clinicians, species-specific facilities, and a multidisciplinary specialist hospital environment.

Specialised Care for Exotic Species

Exotic pets often mask signs of illness, meaning subtle changes can quickly progress into serious conditions. Access to veterinarians experienced in exotic species medicine is essential for early diagnosis, effective treatment, and improved outcomes.

Our Exotics team delivers evidence-based care across preventative health, medical management, surgery, and hospitalisation, with seamless access to on-site specialists when required.

Species We Care For

We provide dedicated care for a wide range of exotic companion animals, including:

Rabbits

Advanced rabbit medicine and dentistry, preventative care, surgery, and hospitalisation. We are proud to hold Gold Rabbit Friendly Status with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF), recognising excellence in rabbit welfare and care.

Birds (Avian Care)

Specialist avian care including health assessments, diagnostics, medical and surgical management, and species-specific anaesthesia.

Reptiles & Amphibians

Care for snakes, lizards, turtles, frogs, and axolotls, with a strong focus on husbandry, nutrition, and environmental assessment.

Small Mammals

Veterinary care for guinea pigs, ferrets, rats, and mice, including dental disease management, internal medicine, and surgery tailored to small species.

*All patients are managed using species-specific protocols that prioritise safety, comfort, and welfare.

Comprehensive Exotic Pet Services

Our Exotics Service is fully supported by the capabilities of a specialist referral hospital, giving exotic patients access tp advanced diagnostics and treatment in one location.

Our services include:

  • Preventative health consultations and annual examinations
  • Dentistry for rabbits and small mammals
  • Nutritional and husbandry advice
  • Advanced diagnostic imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, CT, MRI, endoscopy where appropriate)
  • In-house laboratory testing
  • Medical and surgical case management
  • Specialist anaesthesia and pain management
  • Intensive care and hospitalisation when required
  • Direct access to on-site veterinary specialists

This integrated approach allows for coordinated, high-level care without unnecessary delays or referrals.

Hospitalisation & 24/7 Support

If your exotic pet requires hospitalisation, they will be cared for in a dedicated exotic and avian ward designed to meet species- specific needs.

Our hospital is staffed 24 hours a day, with care provided by:

  • Our Exotics team, and
  • Experienced Emergency & Critical Care veterinarians trained in exotic species management

This ensures continuous monitoring and support, day and night.

When to See a Specialised Exotics Veterinarian

Referral to an exotic pet specialist may be recommended for:

  • Chronic or complex medical conditions
  • Advanced diagnostic investigation
  • Surgical or interventional procedures
  • Critical or unstable patients
  • Dental disease in rabbits, rodents, or other exotic species
  • Husband-related disease requiring expert assessment
  • Second opinions or long-term specialist management

Early referral is strongly encouraged for exotic species, as rapid deterioration can occur.

Emergency & After-Hours Care for Exotic Pets

Exotic pets often hide signs of illness and can decline quickly. Our hospital provides 24/7 emergency and critical care for exotic patients requiring urgent assessment and stabilisation. If your exotic pet is unwell or injured, please contact our hospital immediately or present directly for triage.

Book an Exotics Appointment or Referral

No referral is required for general health consultations. If your exotic pet requires specialist or advanced care, our team is here to help. Contact us to book an appointment or discuss referral options for your exotic pet.

North Shore Vet clinic entrance Artarmon

Veterinary Specialist & Emergency Centre North Shore

Veterinary Specialist & Emergency Centre North Shore

We take pride in offering the latest medical equipment, often comparable to that found in human hospitals. Our on-site facilities mean we can treat your pet straight away.

As a multidisciplinary veterinary hospital, our Cardiology team works closely with Emergency & Critical Care, Internal Medicine, Surgery, and Anaesthesia to provide coordinated, high-level care.

Located on Sydney’s lower north shore, our 24-hour emergency hospital operates 365 days a year, including public holidays. Experienced veterinarians and dedicated nursing staff are on-site at all times to provide continuous access to urgent and life-saving care when it matters most.