What animals does an avian and exotics veterinarian treat?

An avian and exotics veterinarian provides advanced medical care for pets beyond dogs and cats. This commonly includes: Birds (parrots, cockatiels, budgies, macaws, backyard poultry) Small mammals (rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, mice, chinchillas) Reptiles (snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises) Amphibians (frogs, salamanders) Other unique pets such as hedgehogs or sugar gliders

Why do birds and exotic pets need specialized veterinary care?

Birds and exotic pets have unique anatomy, physiology and environmental needs that differ significantly from dogs and cats. For example: Birds often hide signs of illness until they are critically ill. Reptiles depend on precise temperature and lighting for proper metabolism. Rabbits and rodents have continuously growing teeth that require monitoring and care. An avian and exotics veterinarian has advanced training, specialized equipment and experience to diagnose and treat these species safely and effectively.

What conditions are commonly treated in avian and exotic pets?

Common medical concerns include: Nutritional imbalances Respiratory infections Parasites Dental disease (especially in rabbits and rodents) Egg binding in birds and reptiles Metabolic bone disease in reptiles Feather, skin, or scale disorders Gastrointestinal issues Trauma or injury Behavioral concerns Preventive care and habitat evaluation are also essential parts of keeping exotic pets healthy.

When should my exotic pet see a specialist?

You should seek specialty care at a hospital if: Your pet stops eating or drinking You notice lethargy, labored breathing or weakness There are changes in bathroom habits You observe swelling, discharge or sudden weight loss Your primary care veterinarian recommends advanced diagnostics Your pet has a complex or ongoing medical condition Early evaluation is critical.

What can I expect during my pet’s avian or exotic appointment?

During your visit to the hospital, the veterinary team will: Review your pet’s diet, habitat, lighting and behavior Perform a comprehensive physical examination Recommend diagnostic testing if needed (bloodwork, imaging, fecal testing) Develop a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s species and condition You’ll also receive guidance on environmental adjustments that may improve your pet’s health and recovery.

Are emergency services available for birds and exotic pets?

Many specialty veterinary hospitals provide emergency care for birds and exotic pets. Seek emergecy care immediately if your pet is experiencing: Difficulty breathing Severe bleeding Collapse or inability to stand Seizures Trauma Calling ahead can help the hospital team prepare for your arrival.

How should I prepare my exotic pet for a veterinary visit?

To help reduce stress and ensure safety: Transport your pet in a secure, species-appropriate carrier Keep reptiles appropriately warm during travel (without overheating) Bring a fresh fecal sample, if requested Bring a list of current foods, supplements, and medications Take photos of your pet’s habitat and lighting setup Minimizing stress during transport can make a big difference for exotic species who aren't used to leaving their home environment.

Do I need a referral to see an avian and exotics specialist?

At BluePearl, you don't need a referral and can schedule directly with our hospital. We welcome referrals however, particularly for complex cases. Your primary care veterinarian can share medical records to ensure seamless care.

How does the avian and exotics team work with my primary care veterinarian?

Specialists collaborate closely with your primary care veterinarian by: Sharing examination findings and diagnostic results Recommending advanced procedures or treatments Providing follow-up care instructions This team-based approach ensures continuity of care and the best possible outcome for your pet.

What is the difference between a primary care veterinarian and an avian and exotics veterinarian?

A primary care veterinarian provides general wellness exams and treats common conditions, often focusing on dogs and cats and sometimes basic exotic care. An avian and exotics veterinarian has additional training and expertise in diagnosing and managing the complex, species-specific needs of birds and non-traditional pets, particularly in specialty and emergency hospital settings.

BluePearl Pet Hospital
Richmond, VA
Avian & Exotics Medicine

Emergency and Specialty

804.716.4700

5918 W Broad St. Richmond, VA 23230

[email protected]

Emergency:

Sun 7 am-Wed 7 pm
Thu: 7 am-7 pm
Fri: Closed
Sat: 7 am-7 pm

Specialty:

By appointment

Request Appointment

Pet avian and exotics medicine by BluePearl.

Tailored care for every pet – feathers, fangs, fur and more.

We understand that seeing your pet experience unusual symptoms or act out of the ordinary can be stressful – especially if you don’t know what’s wrong. Fortunately, our veterinary avian and exotics team is made up of experts in diagnosing and treating diseases in birds, small mammals, reptiles and other species, and we’re here to help.

Our commitment is not just to treat illnesses; it’s to enhance the well-being of your pet and be with you every step of the way.

Conditions we treat.

Whether your pet has an acute illness, chronic condition or just needs a checkup, you’ll have an entire avian and exotics team helping to improve your pet’s quality of life so you can get back to what matters most – spending precious moments together.

Infections
Injuries
Dental diseases
Gastrointestinal disorders
Metabolic disorders like kidney disease
Behavioral issues
Reproductive complications
Cancer

Services we offer.

Your pet will receive unparalleled medical care during their time at the hospital (and they’ll be spoiled with love and attention, too).

Advanced diagnostics

Your pet can’t tell us what’s wrong, so we use sophisticated diagnostics and imaging tools to uncover the source of the problem.

Electrocardiography (ECG)
Radiography (x-rays)
Ultrasound
Endoscopy
Blood/urine testing

Treatment plans

Just as no two patients are the same, neither are their treatment plans. Our avian and exotics medicine team has experience with a range of advanced procedures and minimally invasive options to get your pet on the path to wellness, including:

Wellness exams
Dental care
Medication
Surgery
Nutritional counseling
Chronic disease management

Our avian & exotics team.

Experience makes all the difference.

Our avian and exotics team is made up of veterinarians, vet technicians and assistants, and support staff with rigorous training and experience in specialty medicine. The team works hand in hand to provide the comprehensive, compassionate care your pet needs and deserves. Because we’re a multidisciplinary hospital, the team can consult the expertise of other specialty departments, too.

Raphael Malbrue

DVM, MS, CertAqV, DACLAM

Board Certified in Laboratory Animal Medicine

Avian & Exotics Medicine

Emergency Medicine

Servicing locations

BluePearl Pet Hospital Richmond, VA

On the job

Dr. Raphael Malbrue loves working with both small companion animals and avian & exotic species. His clinical interests include critical care, emergency surgery, pain management and mentoring future veterinarians.

Education

Diplomate, American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine
Certified Aquatic Veterinarian, World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association
Residency, Laboratory Animal Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge
Master of Science, Biomedical and Veterinary Medical Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Tuskegee University, AL
Bachelor of Science, Animal, Poultry, & Veterinary Science, Tuskegee University, AL

Off duty

In his free time, Dr. Malbrue enjoys hiking, exploring local cuisine and spending time with his family and pets.

Call us at 804.716.4700

What to expect.

We want you to be prepared for your pet’s visit to the avian and exotics vet, so you have one less thing to worry about. Our entire BluePearl team will be with you every step of the way.

Before your visit

Make an initial appointment by calling us directly or via referral from your pet’s primary vet.
We’ll request records from your primary or emergency vet before your first visit and collaborate with them to discuss your pet’s history and current condition.

During your visit

When possible, we’ll examine your pet with you by their side to make them more comfortable. If additional tests are needed for a diagnosis, we’ll discuss those options with you.
You’ll have plenty of time and opportunity to ask questions as we go over your pet’s diagnosis together.
Before you leave, you’ll receive a detailed treatment plan, discharge instructions and any recommended medications. We’ll make sure you’re aware of any symptoms you should watch out for at home.

After your visit

Our team will continue to partner with your primary veterinarian as part of the ongoing management of your pet’s care.
You know your pet better than anyone, and you play a crucial role in their treatment plan. If you have any concerns about providing care at home (such as giving medication, maintaining a specific diet or monitoring your pet’s symptoms), let us know – we’re here for you.

Make an appointment.

Take the first step to getting your pet back to their best self – call us to speak with the avian and exotics team and make an appointment.

Prioritize your pet’s health with the experts in specialty medicine.