Exotic Pet Veterinary Care Near Bartlesville, OK
Exotic animals are becoming increasingly popular companions, with an estimated 17.6 million exotic pets living in homes across the United States. Finding quality veterinary care for these unique animals can be a challenge — but Arrowhead Veterinary Clinic is here to help. We provide veterinary care for a wide variety of exotic species right here in Dewey, OK, offering wellness exams, treatment for common ailments, husbandry guidance, surgical care, and dental care for your non-traditional pets.
Every exotic pet has unique physiological needs, and our team takes special care to ensure your animal stays warm, comfortable, and as stress-free as possible during their visit. We understand that transporting exotic animals requires extra planning — especially in extreme temperatures — and we’re happy to provide guidance on safe transport before your appointment.
Species We Can See
Turtles, lizards, frogs, non-venomous snakes, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, chinchillas, sugar gliders, ferrets, hedgehogs, fish, birds (including chickens and ducks), sheep, and goats.
When to Schedule a Visit
Birds: Any weakness, staying on the bottom of the cage, fluffed appearance while perched, excessive sleeping, loss of vocalization, loose droppings, not eating, blood in droppings, blood loss of any kind, or prolonged straining to pass stool or an egg.
Ferrets: Diarrhea, vomiting, pawing at the mouth (which may indicate dangerously low blood sugar), frequent litter box trips with little or no urine, abdominal pain, depression, or loss of appetite.
Rabbits, Small Mammals, and Marsupials: Diarrhea or decreased stool production, loss of appetite, weakness, pain when touched or lifted, or head tilting and rolling.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Weakness or unresponsiveness, open-mouthed breathing, tremoring or twitching, prolonged lack of appetite, frantic movements, bloody droppings, or prolonged straining.
Fish: Rapid respiration, thick slime coating, red or white skin blotches, listlessness, rubbing against the tank, or loss of equilibrium.
A note on temperature safety: In winter, warm up your car adequately and bundle your exotic pet in a suitable carrier with blankets. In summer, avoid overheating birds, ferrets, rabbits, or small mammals in a hot vehicle.
Please note: Arrowhead Veterinary Clinic is not a specialty emergency hospital. Depending on the severity of your exotic pet’s condition and our current caseload, a referral to a specialist may be recommended. Reach out to us at (918) 534-1958 for guidance on the best scheduling option for your pet.
For additional pet health guidance, visit our Resources page or explore our preventative health care information to learn how routine wellness care benefits exotic pets too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exotic animals does Arrowhead Veterinary Clinic treat?
We see turtles, lizards, frogs, non-venomous snakes, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, rats, chinchillas, sugar gliders, ferrets, hedgehogs, fish, birds (including chickens and ducks), sheep, and goats. If you’re unsure whether we can see your species, give us a call at (918) 534-1958.
What types of care do you provide for exotic pets?
We offer wellness exams, treatment for common ailments, husbandry counseling, surgical care, and dental care for exotic species. We also provide guidance on appropriate nutrition, housing, and environmental enrichment specific to your pet’s needs.
How do I safely transport my exotic pet to the vet?
In cold weather, warm your vehicle before transport and wrap your pet in appropriate blankets inside a secure carrier. In hot weather, avoid leaving small mammals, birds, or ferrets in a hot car, even briefly. Call us ahead of your visit and we’ll provide species-specific transport guidance.
How do I know if my bird needs emergency veterinary care?
Birds often mask illness until they are quite sick. Warning signs include staying on the cage floor, fluffed feathers, excessive sleeping, loss of vocalization, loose droppings, blood, or prolonged straining. If you notice any of these signs, contact us immediately at (918) 534-1958.
Do exotic pets need routine wellness exams?
Yes. Just like dogs and cats, exotic animals benefit from regular wellness exams to monitor their health, catch early signs of disease, and receive husbandry guidance tailored to their species. Routine care can significantly extend your exotic pet’s quality and length of life.
Can you perform surgery on exotic animals?
Yes, we provide surgical care for many exotic species. However, as a general veterinary practice rather than a specialty exotic hospital, very complex or critical cases may require referral to a specialist. We will always be upfront with you about our capabilities and what’s best for your pet.
What should I do if my exotic pet has an after-hours emergency?
For after-hours exotic pet emergencies, please visit our After Hours page for information on our trusted emergency referral partner. You can also call (918) 534-1958 during business hours to discuss concerns or schedule an urgent care appointment.
