Animal Owner Resources

 

Update on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza

We are currently accepting poultry and wild birds on a case-by-case basis. Each case will be carefully evaluated over the phone prior to admission into our hospital, ensuring the best possible care for your birds.

To streamline your visit and prioritize everyone's safety, we kindly request that you call in advance to schedule an appointment and inform us upon arrival. Please remain in your car, and our team will assist you in arranging your visit smoothly.

 

Rabbit Adoption: Before You Adopt a Furry Friend

Is a rabbit right for you?

With the right person, rabbits are incredible companions. Owners of rabbits must have realistic expectations that the behaviors and interactions with their rabbit will not be similar to that of their interactions with their dog or cat. They must be prepared for spending plenty of time on the floor, ‘bunny proofing’ their house, and plenty of hay everywhere!

 

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV)

In early 2020, a new variant of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) entered the United States. This variant is common in wild rabbits in Europe, Asia, and Australia. Since its first discovery in the US, it has spread to multiple states in the US, with Kansas being the most recent state affected. The VHC will not be able to accept any wild rabbits because of this disease.

 

Responsible Reptile Selection and Husbandry

Reptiles are extremely challenging pets to keep, care for and maintain in optimal health. Reptiles have very specific husbandry needs including their food, habitat, lighting, temperature and humidity. In order to attain optimal health in these species in captivity, the goal is to provide a captive environment as close as possible to the reptile’s natural environment in the wild which includes temperature, humidity, light-dark cycle and the terrain or landscape.