How to Be Exotic Animal Veterinarian - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 3, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Exotic animal veterinarians specialize in the care of animals such as reptiles, birds, and small mammals. This specialized field requires extensive knowledge of a wide variety of species and the diseases that affect them. As a result, exotic animal veterinarians must be well-versed in the anatomy and physiology of these animals, as well as their dietary and environmental needs.

In addition, exotic animal veterinarians must have a strong understanding of how to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases in these species, as well as how to properly perform surgeries and dental procedures. The rewards of working in this field can be significant, as exotic animal veterinarians have the opportunity to help animals lead healthier, happier lives.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming an exotic animal veterinarian is to obtain a bachelors degree. Most veterinary programs require applicants to have a minimum of a bachelors degree in a relevant field of study such as biology, animal science, or zoology.
Take the Veterinary College Admission Test (VCAT). After completing a bachelors degree, aspiring exotic animal vets must take the Veterinary College Admission Test (VCAT). This exam is designed to assess the knowledge of veterinary medicine candidates.
Earn an Advanced Degree. After passing the VCAT, students must pursue an advanced degree in veterinary medicine. Most veterinary programs require students to complete four years of study before they can become certified as a veterinarian.
Obtain Certification. Exotic animal veterinarians must obtain certification from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). This certification requires passing an exam and completing additional training in exotic animal medicine.
Gain Experience. Once certification is obtained, exotic animal vets must gain experience in treating and caring for exotic animals. This can be done through internships, residencies, and working at an exotic animal clinic or zoo.
Maintain Licensure. Exotic animal veterinarians must maintain their licensure by taking continuing education courses and renewing their license every two years.

Exotic animal veterinarians provide specialized veterinary care for animals that are not commonly kept as pets, such as reptiles, amphibians, birds, and small mammals. To become an exotic animal veterinarian, one must possess the necessary skills, qualifications, and experience. Such qualifications include a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, completion of clinical rotations in exotic animal medicine, and a license to practice in the jurisdiction where the veterinarian plans to work.

Furthermore, an exotic animal veterinarian must have a thorough knowledge of different species and the diseases that affect them, as well as the ability to properly diagnose and treat those diseases. Having strong communication skills and an understanding of the special needs of exotic animals is also essential. With these skills and qualifications, an exotic animal veterinarian can provide quality care to their unique patients.

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Job Description

Diagnose diseases and medical conditions in exotic animals
Administer vaccinations and other preventive treatments
Perform routine examinations and surgeries
Prescribe medications and treatments
Educate owners on proper care techniques
Manage nutrition, housing, and environment for exotic animals
Collaborate with other veterinarians to provide the best care
Monitor animal behavior and provide counseling to owners
Document medical history and provide status reports
Conduct research projects to improve animal health

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of common and rare exotic animal diseases and treatments
Expertise in exotic animal anatomy, physiology, and nutrition
Ability to perform physical exams, diagnose illnesses, and administer treatments
Proficient in administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during procedures
Experience in performing surgical procedures on exotic animals
Competence in providing preventive care, including vaccinations and parasite control
Excellent communication skills to interact with clients and understand their needs
Ability to work cooperatively with other veterinary professionals
Knowledge of current regulations for exotic animal ownership and care
Ability to use specialized equipment for diagnosis and treatment of exotic animals

Exotic animal veterinarians require a wide range of skills to be successful. An important skill is having an understanding of the anatomy, physiology and behavior of exotic species. This knowledge is essential for diagnosing and treating diseases, as well as providing preventative care.

It is also important for exotic animal veterinarians to have excellent communication skills in order to effectively communicate with owners about their pets health. In addition, they must be able to work independently and have the ability to think on their feet when faced with complex medical challenges. Lastly, exotic animal veterinarians must have an in-depth understanding of the laws and regulations related to exotic species, in order to ensure the safety of the animals and the public.

All these skills are key for an exotic animal veterinarian to be successful in their chosen field.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career as an Exotic Animal Veterinarian?
What specialized training have you undergone to work with exotic animals?
What challenges have you faced in diagnosing and treating exotic animals?
How do you handle the stress of working with exotic animals, who may be in unfamiliar environments and potentially aggressive?
What safety protocols do you use when working with exotic animals?
What strategies do you use to create a positive, trusting relationship with exotic animals?
How do you ensure that exotic animals are receiving the best possible care?
How do you stay up to date on the latest research, treatments, and techniques for working with exotic animals?
What strategies do you use to educate owners on proper care for their exotic pets?
What experience do you have working with zoos and other wildlife organizations?

Common Tools in Industry

Stethoscope. Used to listen to the heart, lungs and intestinal sounds of the animal. (Eg: Examining a rabbit's lungs. )
Otoscope. Used to look into the ears of animals. (Eg: Examining a dog's ears for signs of infection. )
Surgical Instruments. Used to perform surgeries on animals. (Eg: Removing a tumor from a cat's neck. )
Endoscope. Used to look inside the body of animals. (Eg: Examining a horse's stomach for ulcers. )
Ultrasound Machine. Used to generate images of internal organs and tissues. (Eg: Diagnosing a tumor in a dog's bladder. )
X-Ray Machine. Used to capture images of bones and tissues. (Eg: Identifying broken bones in a parrot's wing. )
Syringe. Used to administer medications and vaccines. (Eg: Vaccinating a monkey against rabies. )
Blood Testing Equipment. Used to measure levels of hormones and other substances in the blood. (Eg: Checking a snake's calcium levels. )

Professional Organizations to Know

American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (AAZV)
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians (AEMV)
Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV)
Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV)
International Society for Animal Rights (ISAR)
International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC)
World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)
National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA)
American Association of Wildlife Veterinarians (AAWV)

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Common Important Terms

Zoology. The scientific study of animals, including their behavior, structure, physiology, classification, and distribution.
Exotic Animals. Animals that are not native to a particular region, including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates.
Animal Husbandry. The practice of breeding, raising, and caring for animals.
Animal Welfare. The humane treatment of animals, with the aim of promoting their health and well-being.
Animal Nutrition. The study of the dietary needs of animals and the nutrition they require to remain healthy.
Veterinary Medicine. The science and practice of diagnosing and treating diseases in animals.
Clinical Veterinary Medicine. The application of medical principles and techniques to the diagnosis and treatment of animal diseases.
Diagnostic Imaging. The use of X-rays and other imaging techniques to diagnose diseases in animals.
Surgery. The practice of operating on animals to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
Exotic Animal Medicine. The practice of diagnosing and treating diseases in exotic animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of animals does an Exotic Animal Veterinarian typically treat?

An Exotic Animal Veterinarian typically treats animals such as birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, and fish.

What is the average salary of an Exotic Animal Veterinarian?

The average salary of an Exotic Animal Veterinarian is approximately $83,000 per year.

What qualifications are needed to become an Exotic Animal Veterinarian?

To become an Exotic Animal Veterinarian, one must complete a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree program and obtain a license in the state they plan to practice in.

What type of environment does an Exotic Animal Veterinarian typically work in?

An Exotic Animal Veterinarian typically works in a veterinary clinic or hospital, although they may also work in a zoo or wildlife sanctuary.

What are some of the duties of an Exotic Animal Veterinarian?

Some of the duties of an Exotic Animal Veterinarian include performing physical examinations on animals, diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries, administering vaccinations, providing preventive care and nutrition advice, and performing surgery.

Web Resources

How to Become an Exotic Animal Vet | Exotic Animal Vet Career www.veterinarianedu.org
Exotic Animals - University of Georgia College of Veterinary vet.uga.edu
Exotic Animals - College of Veterinary Medicine - Purdue University vet.purdue.edu