Guinea pigs are classed as ‘exotic’ animals. Today I’m explaining why, as far as I can, anyway, and also the question about how to find an exotics vet.

I’d like to thank Dr Rebekah for answering my questions on this. She’s my favourite vet doctor.

Why are we exotic?

Apparently it has to do with vet training. They spend many years on farm animals, and on horses, and then they added a longer course on cats and dogs. But for non-mammals and other mammals, trainee vets are left to pursue their interest either through getting an intern with an exotic vet, or studying as a postgraduate, and gaining certificates.

Dr Rebekah was lucky enough to learn from one of the best ‘exotic’ vets in the country, John Chitty, who works for zoos and all sorts. I met him once. He was very calming.

So apart from guinea pigs, exotic vets also deal with (among others) degus, tortoises, parrots, lizards, chameleons, giant snails, goldfish, and snakes if they are kept as companion animals. Many also deal with injured wildlife. And some visit zoo animals if necessary.

At Mummy’s vets in Norfolk, she once met an elderly penguin called Dippy who had come for a check-up. Auntie Vikki was there when an emu walked out of the consulting room!

I think those really do count as exotic.

How to find an exotics vet

Well, you need to check the details of all the vets in your area, however you do that. Or ask friends or independent pet and feed stores for suggestions. Then see if they really do guinea pigs.

Dr Rebekah suggests checking their website to see what certificates they hold, especially ones from the Zoological Society. I’m not sure whether there’s an equivalent for the US and elsewhere. Probably.

Most vets say they deal with guinea pigs, but Mummy knows from experience that some know little more than she does. Which is probably enough for most of us, to be honest. But I’d rather have someone like Dr Rebekah doing my teeth, or dealing with lumps, or checking my blood. Or spotting unusual symptoms like hair loss (see I for Illnesses).

So those are my thoughts on exotics, and I hope it helps.

We’ve nearly finished our A2Z, but if you still have a question we haven’t covered, ask away!

love

Locksley xxxx