Contributor: Teresa Bradley Bays, DVM, CVA, DABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal Practice)

Quiz 

Test Your Knowledge: Exotic Companion Mammal Enrichment

The Exotic Companion Mammal Enrichment webinar was reviewed and approved by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) program for 1 hour of continuing education credit for veterinarians and veterinary technicians in jurisdictions that recognize AAVSB RACE approval. You have three chances to take this post-test and pass. With a passing grade, you will see your results and a link to your continuing education certificate.

Article  Video  Webinar 

Exotic Companion Mammal Enrichment

Dr. Teresa Bradley Bays presented this live, interactive webinar. View the RACE-approved webinar recording, then take the brief quiz to earn 1 hour of continuing education credit. Enrichment is critical to enhance the quality of life of our companion small mammals. Safe toys, distractions, and healthy food treats that simulate species-specific natural behavior can reduce boredom and destructive behaviors, increase exercise, and provide mental stimulation. The five main areas of enrichment are explored: social, physical, nutritional, sensory, and occupational. Examples of each category are also be discussed, including resources and ideas that are readily available to the practitioner or pet owner.

Article 

Behavior Essentials: Clinical Approach to the Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs are small, docile rodents, that must be approached with great care. Accurate evaluation of patient health status requires a thorough history, careful visual examination, and a detailed physical examination. Like most prey species, the guinea pig frequently hides signs of pain and illness. To improve clinical success, take measures to minimize stress by maintaining the animal in a quiet exam room and approaching the patient in a slow, quiet manner. The hospitalized guinea pig can also benefit greatly from the presence of a bonded cage mate. Monitor appetite and eliminations carefully in the guinea pig, and offer the same diet as fed in the patient’s home whenever possible as guinea pigs establish strong food preferences early in life.

Teresa Bradley Bays, DVM, CVA, DABVP (Exotic Companion Mammal Practice), CVMMP, CTPEP

Teresa Bradley Bays is a Diplomate in Exotic Companion Mammal Practice and a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist. She is also certified in Veterinary Medical Manipulation and Palliative and End-of-Life Care. Formerly the owner of a veterinary practice for almost 30 years, she is semi-retired today and currently owns 4 Paws Rejuvenation, which offers alternative veterinary therapies. Dr. Bradley Bays has lectured internationally and she has numerous publications to her credit. Teresa is also the senior editor and coauthor of Exotic Pet Behavior – Birds, Reptiles and Small Mammals, and the author of behavior chapters in important exotic animal medicine texts.

Article 

Behavior Essentials: Clinical Approach to the Rabbit

The approach to a prey species like the rabbit often calls for a profound paradigm shift for clinicians used to dealing only with cats and dogs. Rabbits can stress very easily in a clinical setting and the challenge of managing a small mammal like the rabbit increases exponentially when they are presented for illness or injury.