Contributor: Mark Mitchell, MS, DVM, PhD, DECZM (Herpetology)

Quiz 

Test Your Knowledge: Sunburned! UVB Lighting for Captive Exotic Species

The “Sunburned! An Evidence-Based Update on UVB Lighting for Captive Exotic Species” 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 

Sunburned! An Evidence-Based Update on UVB Lighting for Captive Exotic Species

Lighting is a critical component of animal husbandry, particularly for exotic animal species. View the webinar recording by Mark Mitchell, DVM, MS, PhD, DECZM (Herpetology), RACE approved for 1 credit hour. This presentation first reviews the role of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation in vitamin D₃ synthesis, before summarizing experimental studies evaluating UVB exposure in reptiles, birds, and mammals. Additional topics include potential adverse effects associated with UVB light and practical clinical recommendations, such as methods for accurate measurement of UVB output as well as proper bulb selection and placement.

Mark Mitchell, MS, DVM, PhD, DECZM (Herpetology)

Mark A. Mitchell is a Professor of Zoological Medicine and Director of the Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana at Louisiana State University (LSU) School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Mitchell first joined the LSU faculty in 1996. He has also served as the hospital director at LSU. His research interests include wildlife epidemiology, conservation medicine, and One Health. Mark earned his DVM in 1992 from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and he completed a master’s degree in clinical epidemiology with an emphasis on wildlife medicine from the University of Illinois in 1997. He completed his PhD in clinical epidemiology with an emphasis on Salmonella spp. in reptiles…

Article 

Mange in Exotic Small Mammals

Most species of mites are host-specific, however take special precautions, such as wearing exam gloves, to minimize the spread of potentially zoonotic pathogens. Humans that become infested with Sarcoptes scabei may develop wheals, vesicles, papules, and intense pruritus. Pet owners, especially children, may become infected with…

Article 

Clinical Pathology for Exotic Small Mammals

Small mammals, such as rabbits and rodents, are stoic by nature and have evolved to mask their illness to avoid predation. This behavior can create a false sense of security in owners and a clinical challenge for veterinarians. In some cases, an animal that appears clinically normal may in fact have a terminal illness. Use hematology and biochemistry analysis to characterize the true physiological status of these species and aid in disease diagnosis.