Exotic Pets™
sponsored by Zoo Med
The show for people interested in pets that slither, hop, creep, fly or swim: from bunnies to iguanas, parrots to ferrets, snakes to tortoises. Information on the physical requirements of these exotic pets and how to manage the often challenging environment and correct diet essential to their welfare.
Co-hosted by Dr. Doug Mader, author of “The Vet at Noah’s Ark: Stories of Survival from an Inner-City Animal Hospital,”who is a world-renowned specialist on exotic animals, author of four major veterinary textbooks on reptile and amphibians, and a passionate educator.
Sponsored by:
Zoonosis — What Diseases Can Your Exotic Give You?
#273: Dr. Doug wants people to know about — but not be frightened by — the many illnesses exotic animals can transmit to people, especially those who are immunocompromised, elderly or young children whose immune systems are “not yet confident.”
Are Neurodiverse People Drawn to Exotic Pets?
#272: Tracie raises this question with the namesake of Jungle Bob’s Reptile World on Long Island, who goes into schools to put reptiles in a positive light and teach about what he calls “the Unloved, Unusual and Unknown” pets, to which many children are drawn.
Small Pet Birds Have Long Lives
#271: Dr. Micah points out that parakeets — also known as budgies — and cockatiels can live 8-10 years. It’s a responsibility and commitment. They need 65-75 degrees and 50% humidity. Nutrition matters, with Zupreem & Harrison food being the best.
Iguanas Have a Dark Side
#270: Dr. Doug says people buy a five INCH pet that becomes a five FOOT creature requiring 80% humidity and 80 degrees. In adolescence, when “in rut,” they can viciously attack their owners.
Anorexia in Exotics: What to do When They Won't Eat
#269: Dr. Kohles says that a decrease in appetite in a small mammal can be a big deal. They are a prey animal and keep problems to themselves for survival. Ask everyone in the household to pay attention to changes in appetite and behavior.
The Whole Truth About Bearded Dragons
#268: Dr. Stacey Wilkinson teaches us that we don’t know as much as we think we do about Beardies, America’s most popular exotic pet!
Eh, What's Up Doc? Your Bunny Needs More Than a Carrot!
#267: Dr. Karen Rosenthal describes the proper feeding of a bunny, which means getting the right hay from Oxbow Health and good quality pellets from Zupreem, to supply the fiber and grit necessary in a rabbit’s diet.
Don’t Let Your Small Fur Baby Get Chubby
#266: Dr. Micah Kohles suggests establishing a target weight for your small mammal, then getting a baby scale (even at a yard sale or on Craigslist) so you can tell if they are underweight or overweight.
Meet the Master Crocodilian
#265: Savannah is the resident Crocodilian at Gatorland in Orlando, with fascinating tales about crocs, especially the “albino” baby.
What Pet Has 8 Eyes & Hairy Legs?
#264: A tarantula! Dr. Doug Mader talks about the fascination of having 8 legs and 8 eyes peering out at you from behind the terrarium glass. These spiders can live 20-25 years!