No More Homeless Pets
Weekly Forum

March 14-18: Pocket Pets

Rats, guinea pigs, sugar gliders and other small creatures sometimes need rescue, too. But would you know how to help them? Do hamsters and gerbils use the same type of bedding? What temperatures are ideal for chinchillas? And what are the benefits of having our tiniest companions spayed or neutered? Small exotic animal specialist Dr. Mark Burgess of Southwest Animal Hospital helps us look out for the little guys.

You can e-mail your questions through Thursday or join the No More Homeless Pets Forum.

Forum Introduction

From Dr. Mark Burgess: In nearly 20 years of treating exotic pets (ferrets, rabbits, rodents, reptiles and amphibians, hedgehogs, skunks, some wildlife), there have been a few lessons to learn. First, I've learned to never stop learning; many of the exotic pet species have not been in the pet trade long enough for their care and medical problems to be fully understood.

Second, I've learned that with many pets we see, their illness is at least partially a result of how they are housed or fed. Much misinformation about exotic pets is distributed by pet stores, Internet pet sites, and breeders. My job is to treat (and hopefully cure) an illness when I diagnose it, but also to educate people who have these pets to help them prevent further illness in their pets in the future.

Many of these small species can be very affectionate and enjoyable pets when well cared for by a dedicated person. Working together, exotic pet lovers and veterinarians can help ensure long, healthy and happy lives for these engaging animals.

Forum Guests

About Dr. Mark Burgess