Exotics & Birds

Exotic pets encompass a broad and captivating spectrum of animals beyond the traditional cats and dogs.

This category includes reptiles, birds, amphibians, and other species that may not be considered common household pets. Owners of exotic pets find joy and companionship in these extraordinary creatures, and our clinic is here to ensure their health and well-being. Caring for exotic pets often requires specialised knowledge. Our clinic educates owners and raises awareness about the specific needs and challenges of these animals.

Owning an exotic pet is an exciting and enriching experience that opens the door to a diverse and captivating world of companionship. If you have an exotic pet or are considering adopting one, our clinic is here to provide expert care and support, ensuring that your unique companion enjoys a happy and healthy life. 

We have the equipment required to perform safe anaesthesia and surgery on these species and our vets frequently perform dental work on guinea pigs, chinchillas and rats, and we are happy to spay or neuter your pet.  We use special heated anaesthetic circuits to keep small pets warm during anaesthesia and surgery.  Our team can advise you on the best nutrition to keep your pet healthy.

We also regularly see and treat wildlife at the clinic.

BIRDS

Avian patients are just as susceptible as dogs and cats to developing problems.  Their thin, light skeleton makes them highly prone to broken bones and their inquisitive nature prone to toxicities and accidents.

As most birds are prey species they are very good at hiding signs of disease, until it is very advanced.  Some diseases such as Psitticosis can also affect humans, so it is important for your own health to get them checked out.   Here at the clinic we can perform basic maintenance procedures such as wing, nail and beak trimming, and our blood analysers can run samples from birds.  If your feathered friend seems a little off, our vets are more than happy to examine them and offer general advice on husbandry as well as perform various tests to identify the problem.

Emergency Out of Hours Clinic

At the Vets is a member of the Christchurch After Hours Veterinary Clinic.
You are welcome to use the After Hours clinic if there is an emergency with your pet at any time that At the Vets is closed. After Hours will forward us your pet’s treatment history so we can continue their care.

The After Hours Veterinary Clinic telephone number is

03 366 1052

The After Hours clinic is located at 146 Antigua Street, Christchurch.
(on the Disraeli Street corner)

Our opening times

Monday to Friday 8.00am – 7.00pm
Saturday 9.00am – 3.00pm
Sundays and Public Holidays Closed