Services

Excellence for exotic animals

ARACAVIA Exotic Animal Veterinary Clinic is a unique and pioneering project in Andalusia, created to provide veterinary care for companion animals other than dogs and cats. We specialise in exotic animals, including rabbits and other small mammals, ferrets, birds and reptiles. Dogs and cats are not treated at our clinic, which means that our patients—many of whom are prey species in the wild—can enjoy a much calmer and less stressful environment than they would in a clinic where they could hear dogs barking.

Our services

Initial consultation

 

You may already have an exotic pet, or perhaps you are considering getting one. You may have done some research beforehand, or you may be coming to the clinic so that we can explain everything to you and carry out your pet’s first health check.

In either case, we recommend an initial examination together with a faecal test, which is included in the consultation, to check the general health of the newly arrived animal and to rule out parasites that could be harmful. This is particularly important if the new pet will be living with other animals already in the household, in which case an appropriate quarantine period is also important.

A typical consultation usually lasts around 20–30 minutes, allowing enough time to carry out a full general examination, which will vary depending on the species.

We also work on an appointment-only basis so that, as far as possible, we can provide prompt attention and reduce waiting times. This also allows us to devote the time and care that each animal deserves.

We also provide estimates in advance. This means that, whenever the veterinarian recommends any additional tests, procedures or treatments, you will be informed of the associated costs at reception beforehand, where applicable.

Birds

Veterinarian for lovebirds, budgerigars, cockatiels, African greys, macaws, canaries, birds of prey, etc.

Small exotic mammals

Veterinarian for rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, chinchillas, etc.

Reptiles

Veterinarian for snakes, turtles, tortoises and lizards.

Radiographic studies

Radiography is an essential diagnostic technique for reaching certain diagnoses. In rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas, we perform dental radiographic studies to detect dental disease as early as possible.

In small birds, we also frequently use barium contrast studies to better identify anatomical abnormalities.

In tortoises and other animals that are difficult to handle, radiography provides valuable and rapid information to help reach a diagnosis.

We use digital radiography equipment to achieve higher image resolution and faster workflow.

Our equipment includes:

  • Konica Minolta Regius Model 110 digital radiography system.
  • SPL Sedecal portable X-ray unit.

Ultrasound

We have a high-end ultrasound system—the Aplio i800—equipped with state-of-the-art probes designed for very small animals. This cutting-edge equipment allows us to perform procedures as precise as a cardiac ultrasound on a canary.

Heart of a Canary

In-house laboratory analyses

We have a high-quality microscope that allows us to examine every detail when performing faecal examinations, blood smear examinations, cytology, and other diagnostic procedures. For cytological examinations, we have several staining kits that allow us to obtain the best possible results from swabs, impression smears and other samples.

With the Abaxis VetScan VS2 and the MNCHIP Point Care V, we can perform biochemical analyses in birds, mammals and reptiles using as little as 0.1 mL of whole blood. This enables us to obtain important renal and hepatic markers, as well as other biochemical parameters such as electrolytes, in patients ranging from small birds and reptiles to rabbits and ferrets.

We also have a 5-part differential haematology analyser, the DYMIND DF50, for evaluating blood cell populations and detecting infections, anaemia and other haematological abnormalities.

Surgery and endoscopy

We have two rooms equipped with anesthesia and monitoring systems. We also offer endoscopy, rabbit teeth filing, dental cleanings, etc.

Hospitalization

Exotic animals have special requirements for hospitalization and care. We have several hospitalization wards designed to meet the specific needs of the various species we treat.

Therapeutic hairdressing

The goal is functional rather than aesthetic. Rabbits frequently develop mats that irritate the skin and promote infections. We also perform this procedure on rabbits prone to digestive issues caused by excess fur or to urine scald.

Adoptions

If you haven’t yet acquired a pet, we recommend responsible adoption. There are many exotic pets—not just dogs—that, for various reasons, have lost the families that cared for them and are in need of a new home. You can ask us or search online for organizations that facilitate this.

If you are looking to responsibly adopt a mammal:

If you are looking for the responsible adoption of psittacines (parrots):