VPN Plus+ ExclusiveRabbit and Rodent DentistryFebruary 26, 2025In this session: Olivia Petritz, DVM, DACZM, comprehensively covers what you need to know about the dental anatomy of guinea pigs, chinchillas, and rabbits. Learn about the latest diagnostic techniques and effective treatment options to ensure your beloved herbivorous patients stay happy and healthy.
SPONSORED CONTENTAre Your Patients Fully Protected?Fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites—dogs face multiple threats. See how a multi-parasite approach can offer your patients a broad range of protection. + Learn More
Reproductive surgery of companion small mammals and birdsNovember 22, 2022Companion small mammals—ferrets, rabbits, and rodents—and birds face similar reproductive issues and diseases as dogs and cats, including cessation of breeding and reproductive tract neoplasia. However, there are some important distinctions.
Unique pets call for exotic monitoringJuly 29, 2022While some veterinarians will commonly treat birds, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, and fish, others might have a patient list where frequent visitors include bearded dragons, snakes, servals, chinchillas, and tortoises. Working with exotic patients is a very widespread area in veterinary medicine, and each doctor has their own species niche.
Guinea pig essentials for general practitionersDecember 20, 2021Like rabbits, guinea pigs are popular pets that have been overlooked by the mainstream veterinary curriculum.
Salmonella outbreak linked to pet guinea pigsMarch 26, 2018 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported nine cases of Salmonella infection connected to pet guinea pigs across eight states. The illnesses, which resulted in one hospitalization, ranged from July 2015 to Dec. 2017. "This outbreak is a reminder that pet rodents such as guinea pigs, regardless of where they are purchased or adopted, can carry Salmonella bacteria even when they look healthy and clean," states the advisory. States cited in the advisory include Colorado, with two reported cases, as well as Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Virginia, and Vermont, with one case each. The outbreak strain of the bacteria was identified in a sample collected from the guinea pig belonging to the patient in Vermont. Illness resulting from exposure to Salmonella usually lasts four to seven days. Those affected usually recover without treatment, but extreme cases of diarrhea and vomiting can lead to hospitalization. Infection is considered most dangerous for children younger than 5, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The CDC recommends veterinarians remind clients with pet rodents to enforce good hygiene practices, especially in regard to young children. To read the full report, click
