Birds are very skilled in hiding signs of illness.  Often times when we first notice signs they are not feeling well, they have actually been sick for a few days.  In the wild, birds socialize in flocks and are generally prey species.  In order to survive, they must act normally so they do not get cast out of the flock and become more susceptible to predators.  This is a survival mechanism. Some classic signs of a sick bird are: decreased to no vocalizations, reduced energy, sitting near bottom of cage or on same perch all day, weight loss, and a generalized fluffed appearance. Because birds are so good at hiding signs of illness, it is important to schedule them yearly exams with a veterinarian.  So what will happen at an annual wellness appointment, what may be offered, and what are the benefits?

So your puppy isn’t exactly a puppy anymore…now what?  Senior status is dependent upon breed and size. Larger breed dogs reach seniority around 6-7 years old while smaller breed dogs and cats reach seniority around 8-9 years old.  A general rule of thumb is that your pet is considered senior when they reach half their […]

Pender Veterinary Centre is proud to be awarded Best Veterinary Hospital 2017 by Virginia Living Magazine!

Thanks for rating us as one of the best in the area for 6 years running! Although Pender Veterinary Centre specializes in caring for dogs, cats, and exotic pets, we also care a lot about what our human clients think! And we are proud to announce that for the 6th consecutive year, we have met […]

Is high cholesterol as dangerous for dogs as it is for us?

Being itchy all day is a horrible feeling, yet many dogs suffer from just this. We owe it to our pups to try and alleviate their itching to help keep them as happy and comfortable as possible.

Chinchillas should always be held gently with two hands. When picking up a chinchilla, be sure to support its chest and hind end.

Children handling rats should sit on the floor and hold the animal in their lap. Gently pick up your rat by placing your hand firmly over the back and rib cage.

Rabbits should always be held gently with two hands. When picking up a rabbit, always support its hind end because the rabbits powerful rear legs can cause serious spinal injuries if it kicks while being held.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal. They tend to sleep soundly during the day and stay awake for most of the night. They are sensitive to light and prefer a dim, quiet environment.

Guinea pigs should always be held gently with two hands. When picking up a guinea pig, always support its hind end because the guinea pig’s powerful rear legs can cause serious spinal injuries if it kicks while being held.

Sugar gliders are extremely social animals. It is recommended they be housed in groups of 2 or more. If housed alone, they require at least 2 hours of socialization per day.

Small rodents jump and wiggle, so they are best supported on the palm of the hand. Do not try to hold your small rodent by the tail, as this can cause serious injury.

Herbs have been used successfully to treat animals for thousands of years.

Most young, hand-raised cockatiels are very adaptable and easily handled by many people. Begin by teaching your bird to “step up” onto your finger, and allowing it to become comfortable with you.

Large, colorful, resilient. Veiled chameleons are one of the hardiest and easily kept species of chameleons, but still require diligent husbandry.

These species have been known to cause harm to people due to ignorance and improper handling. Daily contact will help to establish a level of trust and confidence between you and your snake.

Leopard geckos are generally friendly, however, excessive handling can be stressful to young geckos.

Bearded dragons are generally friendly, however, excessive handling can be stressful to young dragons.

These are one of the few animals that can be sexually differentiated by color alone.

Most young, hand-raised parakeets are very adaptable and easily handled by many people. Begin by teaching your bird to “step up” onto your finger, and allowing it to become comfortable with you.

Most young, hand-raised macaws are very adaptable and easily handled by many people.

Many aquatic turtles are less amenable to handling than land-dwelling turtles and may bite if mishandled.