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Tricky Case - Need Help?

Avian & Wildlife Laboratory

Contact Us

The Client Services Division is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm EST.  We are ready to help you with all your questions.
Phone: 800-596-7390 Phone: 305-243-6700 Email

In these complicated days of exotic pet ownership, you likely will have the opportunity to see a wider variety of species that you ever have seen in the past. In order to have the best experience for you, the owner, and the pet, we make the following recommendations:

  • Take the initiative to learn about new species – via local shows and veterinary associations, on-line CE opportunities, and state and national conferences. Join the Association of Avian Veterinarians, Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians, and the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians.
  • Find a colleague in your area – find a vet that specializes in particular species that you can go to for advice and send referrals.
  • Make sure your hospital is set up to see exotic pets – from waiting room to treatment rooms
  • Cross train your veterinary technician staff so you always have someone available that feels comfortable in working with exotic pets.
  • Have contingency plans for emergency and weekend coverage.

The Avian & Wildlife Laboratory at the University of Miami is pleased to offer FREE consultations with one of our expert adjunct professors when you send your blood work to our lab. You can choose who you want to chat with or we can make a referral for you. Our faculty includes the following:

  • Dr. Susan Kelleher, clinician
  • Dr. Lauren Thielen, clinician
  • Dr. Carolyn Cray, laboratory director

To set up a consult, please call the laboratory at 800-596-7390 to briefly discuss your case. We will ask you to summarize your comments in a brief email and include both an email address and phone number with the best times to reach you. Our goal is to reach out to you within 48 hours. If your need for advice is more pressing, we will do our best to get one of our team members in touch with you sooner. We appreciate any feedback on this process to help refine our new program.