Exotic Pet Resources

As an exotic pet owner, it’s important to have access to reliable, trustworthy information to help you provide the best possible care for your unique companion. Below are some valuable resources related to various types of exotic pets.

Aquatic Pets

  • Guidelines for Owners of Aquariums and Exotic Pets – A helpful PDF guide from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation with information on caring for aquatic pets and other exotics.
  • Aquatic Veterinary Services – Resources from an aquatic veterinary practice on maintaining healthy fish and aquatic environments.
  • Aquarium Co-Op – An online retailer that provides educational articles and videos on fishkeeping and aquarium maintenance.
  • Seriously Fish – A comprehensive online resource for freshwater and marine aquarium fish, with species profiles and care guides.
  • Reef2Reef – A saltwater aquarium forum with discussions on reef tank setup, maintenance, and livestock care.
  • Aquatic Arts – An online retailer of aquarium fish, plants, and invertebrates, with care guides and articles.

Birds

  • Avian and Exotics Vet Resources – The Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic provides a list of professional organizations and resources for bird owners, including the Association of Avian Veterinarians.
  • Feathered Friends Sanctuary & Rescue Resources – A rescue organization that offers veterinary care services and resources for exotic bird species.
  • Lafeber’s Bird Care Resources – Lafeber, a maker of bird food products, offers a variety of articles on avian nutrition, behavior, and health.
  • BirdTricks – A website dedicated to parrot training and care, with a blog, podcast, and online courses available.
  • Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue – A non-profit organization that rescues and rehabilitates companion birds, with resources on bird care and adoption.
  • Parrot Enrichment – A website focused on providing mental stimulation and enrichment for pet parrots, with DIY toy ideas and foraging tips.

Small Mammals

  • Resources for Small Exotic Mammals – The Animal Medical Center of Corona shares articles on enrichment, games, and care for rabbits, rodents, ferrets and other small mammals.
  • Oxbow’s Beginner’s Guide to Small Exotic Mammals – An introduction to popular small exotic pets like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters, with information on their unique needs and personalities.
  • The Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians – A professional organization dedicated to advancing the care of exotic companion mammals. Their site provides access to educational resources.
  • House Rabbit Society – An educational website with articles on rabbit care, health, behavior, and adoption.
  • Guinea Lynx – A comprehensive resource on guinea pig care, including forums and a medical reference guide.
  • Ferret University – A website dedicated to ferret care, with articles on nutrition, health, and behavior.
  • Hedgehog Central – A forum and resource site for hedgehog owners, with care guides and a breeder directory.

Reptiles & Amphibians

  • Reptiles & Amphibians Resources – The Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital compiles resources related to the care of reptiles and amphibians, including diet, enrichment, and common health issues.
  • Creating an Ideal Habitat for Your Exotic Pet – Tips from Dogwood Veterinary Hospital on providing appropriate housing and enrichment for exotic pets.
  • Reptile Care Products & Resources – ReptiFiles offers care guides and recommended products for various reptile species.
  • Reptiles Magazine – An online magazine with articles on reptile and amphibian care, breeding, and conservation.
  • Reptile Apartment – A blog and YouTube channel dedicated to reptile care, with species-specific guides and product reviews.
  • The Turtle Source – A website focused on turtle care, with articles on housing, diet, and health.
  • Bearded Dragon Care 101 – A comprehensive guide to caring for bearded dragons, with information on diet, housing, and health.
  • Chameleon Forums – A community forum for chameleon owners, with discussions on care, breeding, and troubleshooting.

Insects & Arachnids

  • Exotic Pet Resources – In addition to reptile/amphibian resources, the Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital also provides a list of organizations promoting the health of other exotic pets, including invertebrates.
  • Tarantula Heaven – A website with care sheets, forums, and articles on tarantula keeping.
  • Mantis Kingdom – An online resource for praying mantis care, breeding, and species information.
  • The Bug Chicks – A website with educational resources on insects, arachnids, and other invertebrates, including care guides and videos.
  • Insects Are Food – A resource for those interested in entomophagy, or eating insects, with information on insect farming and recipes.
  • Arachnoboards – A forum for arachnid enthusiasts, with discussions on tarantulas, scorpions, and other arachnids.
  • Roach Crossing – A website dedicated to the care and breeding of cockroaches as pets and feeders, with species profiles and care guides.

When in doubt, always consult with an exotic animal veterinarian for the most accurate, up-to-date information on caring for your specific pet. With the proper resources and commitment, you can help your exotic companion thrive.