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Exotics

Exotic Pet Care

We care for exotic pets with species-specific expertise and heart.

Exotic Pet Care: Specialized Veterinary Services for Unique Companions

Exotic pets bring joy, personality, and plenty of curiosity into our lives. From rabbits and reptiles to birds and pocket pets, these unique animals need veterinary care that’s just as specialized as they are. Our experienced team is here to provide expert care tailored specifically to your exotic companion’s needs. We also offer guidance on enrichment, temperature control, and habitat setup to help your pet thrive at home.

Why Choose a Vet Experienced in Exotic Medicine?

Exotic pets often hide signs of illness until it becomes severe. That’s why routine wellness checks are critical—and why it’s important to work with a veterinary team that understands their physiology and behavior.

Our team has experience handling a wide variety of exotic species with gentle, low-stress techniques, making exams safer and more comfortable for your pet.

When Should I Bring My Exotic Pet to the Vet?

Schedule a visit if your pet shows any of the following:

  • Lethargy or reduced appetite

  • Changes in droppings or urination

  • Labored breathing or nasal discharge

  • Weight loss or bloating

  • Skin issues or feather loss

  • Changes in behavior or posture

Many exotic pets benefit from annual or biannual exams, even when they appear healthy.


Your exotic pet deserves care as unique as they are. Whether it chirps, hops, slithers, or scurries, we’re here to help them live a long, healthy life.

Whether it’s a checkup, questions, or care needs, visit us—we’re here to be your partner in your pet’s health.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no question too big or too small for our veterinary team.

Payment is due when services are rendered at All Creatures Pet Hospital. We accept all major credit cards and offer Care Credit for your convenience.

Heartworms have been diagnosed in all fifty states and are especially prevalent in warmer climates found in Alabama. Heartworms can be transmitted to dogs and cats by the bite of a mosquito infected with immature heartworms. If the dog or cat is not protected by a heartworm preventative, the worms can mature, eventually damage the heart and lungs, and cause death if left untreated. Please remember that heartworm preventatives are always less expensive and more effective than heartworm treatments. Dr. Ted Hankes attends conferences and lectures throughout the country to stay current and ensure that All Creatures Pet Hospital offers the safest and most effective products here at our pharmacy, including heartworm preventatives. Please call one of our caring veterinary team members at (205) 947-4083 and schedule a heartworm-preventative appointment for your companion.

Dr. Ted Hankes recommends spaying or neutering all pets not being used for breeding purposes. Sterilization not only prevents unwanted litters but can also prevent certain reproductive cancers later in their lives. Puppies and kittens can be spayed between four and six months of age. Our pets feel pain the same way people do, therefore, we administer pain medication to keep them comfortable during and after the procedure. Additionally, blood work is needed to help determine if your puppy or kitten is healthy enough for the procedure. Please call All Creatures Pet Hospital to schedule your furry friend for a spay or neuter as soon as they are old enough for the surgery.

Proper nutrition and portion control are as important for our pet companions as they are for us. Overweight pets face the same conditions as people, including arthritis, joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease, for example. Dr. Hankes can evaluate your pet to determine their individual nutritional needs, as well as the proper portions to maintain a healthy body weight. Affordable prescription diets are available at our hospital for your convenience. Schedule an appointment for your furry friend regardless of their life stage or current health condition.

Like people, pets need dental care for overall health. Without it, bacteria can cause tooth decay, gum damage, and may harm organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. Dr. Hankes recommends dental care starting at age one to help prevent disease, improve health, and avoid costly future treatments. Contact our team at All Creatures Pet Hospital to schedule your pet's dental appointment.

In many species, one animal year equals about seven human years. A seven-year-old dog missing the vet for three years is like a 49-year-old person skipping the doctor for 21 years. At All Creatures Pet Hospital, we recommend yearly exams and blood work unless your pet is sick or has a special condition. Caring for your pet early can reduce future medications and may extend their life. Call us at (205) 947-4083 to schedule your pet's yearly visit.