All Pets Veterinary Medical Center Ferrets, Small Mammals & Pocket Pets
Pocket pets come in all shapes but only one size - small. Careful thought must be given to your choice in a veterinarian for you and your small pet. Small pets demand specialty veterinary expertise and equipment. Dr. Rupley has over 25 years experience treating ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, hedgehogs, rabbits, sugar gliders, and chinchillas, among others. Also, our team is specifically trained in proper handling techniques to reduce stress during your pet’s visit.
Pocket
pets are susceptible to many of the same illnesses that affect other mammals
such as cats and dogs. Early detection and treatment of disease is proven to
extend the life of your pet and improve the quality of life.
Our wellness
recommendations are designed to detect illness through comprehensive physical
examination and laboratory testing. Our doctor and staff will thoroughly review
the environment, diet, and attention that you’re pet is currently receiving at
home. Additionally, our Team will answer any questions you may have about
proper care for your loved one.
Physical Exam
There is no substitute for a thorough physical examination by a knowledgeable veterinarian. Our doctor thoroughly examines your pet from nose to tail (if he or she has one) and assesses his or her overall health. The veterinarian will observe the health of the heart, lungs, skin, mouth, teeth, vision/eyes, ears, and lymph nodes. Many conditions affecting small mammals can be diagnosed during a physical exam.
These exams are the best way to prevent illness. The health and safety of you and your pet is our number one priority here at All Pets Medical Center. Schedule a physical exam for your pet today.
Vaccinations (Ferrets Only)
Ferrets commonly experience reactions to vaccines. Therefore, they are routinely treated with diphenhydramine prior to the administration of the vaccine. We also recommend that a single vaccine be given at each visit.
Distemper
Distemper is a deadly disease for ferrets and can be spread easily amongst pets. No ferret-specific vaccination currently exists; however, Nobivac Puppy DPv has shown to produce significant antibodies in Ferrets. The vaccine helps them resist the distemper virus and produces the same protection previously available in the ferret distemper vaccination.
Rabies
Although unlikely, rabies can infect both indoor and outdoor ferrets. Most states require a yearly vaccination for ferrets.
The health and safety of you and your pet is our number one priority here at All Pets Medical Center. Schedule an appointment to get your ferret vaccinated today.
Recommended Laboratory Testing and Disease Screening
Parasite screening
Parasite screening is necessary to ensure that your pet and family remain parasite-free. While uncommon, parasite infections in small mammals can be life-threatening and/or contagious to members of the household. A fecal float is performed to ensure that your pet did not pick up any unwanted guests.
The health and safety of you and your pet is our number one priority here at All Pets Medical Center. Schedule an appointment to get your pet screened today.
Additional Testing Available
Chemistry panel
A chemistry panel is utilized to detect underlying illness not detectable by physical exam alone. Kidney and liver function are collected and compared against a range of normal values to diagnose a variety of potential illness.
This test uses a very small volume of blood to assess the function of the organs. It tests for such things including liver function, kidney muscle damage, proteins in the blood, albumin and several different electrolytes, including calcium levels. Chemistry panels can help pinpoint problems non-invasively.
The health and safety of you and your pet is our number one priority here at All Pets Medical Center. Schedule an appointment to get your pet tested today.
Complete blood count
CBCs are a tool we use to identify blood disorders such as anemia. This test also detects infection and inflammation in the body.
The health and safety of you and your pet is our number one priority here at All Pets Medical Center. Schedule an appointment for your pet today.
Urinalysis
Generally recommended for senior small mammals, a urinalysis is a simple test to assess your pet’s overall urinary tract health. A urinalysis gives our doctor insight into your pet’s kidney and bladder function as well as glucose regulation and liver function.
Pasteurella EIA testing (rabbits only)
Pasteurella infections in rabbits are common and, if left untreated, can be fatal. The disease affects the respiratory system and is contagious to other pets.
One of the most common symptoms of this infection is respiratory, usually manifested as a nasal discharge. Other signs include sneezing, congestion and conjunctivitis. If you believe your rabbit may be infected, schedule an appointment to get him or her tested today.
Husbandry Counseling: Environment, Diet, and Care
Homecare is a vital part of a small mammal’s long and healthy life. Each pet is special and requires a personalized diet, habitat, and supplementary care. Our veterinary team will develop for you a plan that addresses all of these needs, ensuring that your pet is receiving proper care.
Our doctor will discuss your pet’s individual needs with you personally until all of your questions are answered. We will explain the proper habitat, diet recommendations, and at-home care that is unique to your loved one.
