We see a variety of exotic pets at Bellevue Animal Hospital, including birds such as parakeets and cockatoos; iguanas, geckos, chameleons, and bearded dragons; snakes; guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and rats; hedgehogs; rabbits; turtles and tortoises; chinchillas; and ferrets. Dr. Linda Rock-Paul takes care of the majority of our exotic patients. Dr. Rock-Paul sees most of our birds. Dr. Tammy Pfeiffer takes care of guinea pigs and chinchillas. Dr. Jemma Pipkin also sees some exotic pets.
Please note that due to the specialized nature of veterinary care for exotic pets, appointments with these veterinarians may only be available during certain office hours.
Urgent Care Services
We also provide outpatient urgent care services for cats, dogs, and small exotic pets (small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and some birds) on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Please call ahead for an appointment, as urgent care hours and availability are subject to change without notice. Due to staffing issues, as of 30 July 2022 we will only be offering urgent care services on Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hours are subject to change without posted notice, and care for exotic pets may not always be available. Please contact our office at 402-291-1255 to confirm availability.
Wildlife and Livestock
Please note that our veterinarians do not see wildlife, livestock or other large animals (such as pot-bellied pigs, horses, goats, sheep, or cattle) or poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, peacocks, ducks, or geese.)
If you see a wild animal or bird that appears to be in need of veterinary care, please contact the Nebraska Humane Society at 402-444-7800. They will work with Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, Inc. or the Raptor Conservation Alliance to see that the animal is cared for appropriately. If you live outside the greater Omaha area, you can call Nebraska Wildlife Rehab at 402-234-2473 for assistance.
Pet Insurance
Did you know that pet insurance is available for birds, guinea pigs, lizards, turtles, hedgehogs, rabbits, and other exotic pets? The Avian and Exotic Pet Plan, available exclusively from Nationwide, reimburses for accidents and illnesses. Optional routine care coverage is available for birds. For more information, click the link above! If you have additional questions, or wish to enroll your pet, call Nationwide at 1-866-VET-PETS.
For more information about caring for your exotic pet, please see the following pages. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at 402-291-1255 or send us an email message!