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| 06-21-2004 | Previous edition: 06-18-2004 |
        
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Printer-friendly version Conference focuses on exotic animals’ needs
Summer Reporter Humane societies and animal shelters need to know what to do in case a pet cougar gets loose or a boa constrictor comes in with a skin rash. That was the purpose of "A Walk on the Wild Side: Managing Wild and Exotic Species in the Animal Facility," the topic of the 13th Conference on Societal Issues in Animal Management. Most veterinarians come to their jobs without training in exotic species, said Wallace Morrison, director of the Office of Continuing Education in the School of Veterinary Medicine, which co-sponsored the talks. It’s important to know how to properly care for unusual animals as well as be aware of zoonotic diseases, which are transmitted from animals to humans. The daylong conference had speakers from the Indianapolis Zoo as well as the National Wildlife Control Operators Association. Adolf Maas, member of the Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians, discussed animals such as snakes, turtles and lizards. He suggested people "know your species," because they each require different habitats and care. He said more than 90 percent of the problems he saw could be corrected with proper husbandry — making sure animals have the correct bedding, ventilation and diet, for example. Nancy Doig, a registered veterinary technician, works in emergency medicine and said she came to the conference because it covered topics she doesn’t see every day. She thought it would be a good learning experience. "I feel like I get something out of each conference because I never know what comes in the door," she said, and added that even if she doesn’t use her newly acquired knowledge right away, it might come in handy some day. "A Pet in your Pocket: They’re not Disposable" was the last talk of the day. Kellie VanderVeen, veterinary assistant at the Avian and Exotic Animal Clinic of Indianapolis, talked about "pocket pets," animals such as gerbils, hamsters, rabbits and ferrets that are considered prey in the wild. She said that because they are preyed on, these animals will usually hide signs of illness and weakness that would get them eaten in the wild. VanderVeen said she knew it sounded silly, but to help these small animals she tries to put herself in their place when they come to her with an illness or injury. Printer-friendly version |
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