EXOTIC PET CARE

Services include grooming for current clients, health exams, 
blood work, dental, hospitalization and emergency services.  

Quakertown Veterinary Clinic has the ability to treat and care for a variety of exotic species. A variety of small mammals, including ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas and rats are also seen regularly.  Dr. Elizabeth Clark has extensive experience with pet birds, from finches to parrots, as well as water fowl and poultry and the occasional owl and hawk.        

Why Should I Take My Bird To A Veterinarian?  
Most people who purchase a bird are looking for a long-term, satisfying relationship with their bird.  An avian veterinarian can have a vital role in this relationship.

Your Avian Veterinarian Can Help You:

• Decide what type of bird is the right choice for you and your family. Even before you purchase a bird an avian veterinarian can help you distinguish between the characteristics and requirements of various birds.  In addition, the avian veterinarian may be a source for established breeders and avian rescue groups.  This information may assist you in choosing the bird that fits your lifestyle and home best.
• Start with a healthy bird.  Everyone seems to know that when you purchase a dog or a cat that it should be taken to the veterinarian to be “checked out.”  But, not everyone thinks that this should be done for birds.  A “first time check up” for your bird is needed.  It is needed not only to protect your financial and emotional investment in the bird, but to also protect other birds, pets and humans in the home.  Many bird diseases that can harm others may not be obvious to see.  Ask your veterinarian about screening for chlamydiosis, bacteria, parasites and some viral diseases.
• Learn how to house and feed your new bird.  Your avian veterinarian can help you determine the kind of accessories to buy your bird- the cage, water utensils, safe toys.  In addition, your veterinarian can educate you about what type of diet your bird needs.  
• Have a well trained, responsive bird.  Most avian veterinarians offer behavior modification programs where the bird and owner learn together that biting, screaming, feather picking and other vices are not acceptable in the home environment.  With time, patience and commitment you and your bird should have an enjoyable relationship with each other.
• Establish normal medical criteria.  It is useful to have your avian veterinarian establish “normal” test values and other medical criteria for an individual bird so that any signs of illness can be detected and treated early.

Behavioral Consultations 
Dr. Elizabeth Clark has a graduate degree in Animal Behavior and would be happy to help you with your pet's behavior problems. 

Dr. Clark works closely with a dog trainer and parrot behavior consultant, both of whom specialize in behavior problems. Both will come to your home and work with you and your pet. This aids in problem solving and achieving a solution. 

The behavior problems that present to our clinic include things such as cats not using the litter pan, parrots who bite, scream or pluck, dogs that destroy the house due to separation anxiety and aggression in all species. 

It takes time to work through a behavior problem. There is no quick fix. So, it is very important to have an open mind, patience and time in order to be able to solve the problem.   

To schedule an appointment, please call 215-536-6245.