Leading veterinarian shares the best tips for exotic pet care

At the center of a new book, veterinarian Dr. Laurie Hess investigates an unknown epidemic to find the source of a mysterious illness plaguing sugar gliders across the country. “You will be swept up in her race to find a cure that will save dying animals and the frequent E.R.-like action, as well as the heartfelt, healthful connections of loving people for their extraordinary pets” says Dr. Marty Becker, “America’s Veterinarian” and author of The Healing Power of Pets. UNLIKELY COMPANIONS The Adventures of an Exotic Animal Doctor (Or, What Friends Feathered, Furred, and Scaled Have Taught Me About Life and Love) [Da Capo Press; Hardcover; November 1, 2016; $26.00] by Dr. Laurie Hess is a behind-the-scenes look at a week in the life of an internationally renowned expert in avian and exotic pet medical care.

Dr. Hess has appeared on Fox & Friends, Inside Edition, Animal Planet and The Martha Stewart Show to discuss exotic animal pet care. In UNLIKELY COMPANIONS, she narrates a hectic, life-changing week at the Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics in Bedford Hills, NY. Hess details her daily, around-the-clock schedule as the founder and owner of one of the only exotic animal hospitals in the area, and how she was able to achieve her dream of working and caring for exotics and educating pet owners everywhere.

Discussion topics include:

  • Expert media advice on how to treat all animals.
  • Factors to consider if you’re getting an exotic pet as a holiday gift for your family. What type of exotic pet is a perfect fit for your home and lifestyle?  What is the best exotic pet for kids of all ages?
  • If you’re a dog and cat owner and would like to add another pet. What are some options?
  • Top five most fun exotics pets.
  • Exotics are a great choice for kids who are shy or on the spectrum (animals help them relax, communicate and interact.)  They’re also great for older people.
  • How to winterize your exotic pet.

Martha Stewart says “Dr. Hess takes everyday as it comes and treats whatever enters her office with compassion, and knowledge, and sometimes even humor.”

Dr. Laurie Hess is the founder and owner of the Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics. She graduated summa cum laude from Yale University and received her veterinary medical degree from Tufts University. She is board-certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in avian medicine and is a member of the Association of Avian Veterinarians, the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians, and the Association of Reptilian and Amphibian Veterinarians. Dr. Hess has lectured all over the country and internationally, has written for various veterinary publications. She has published research on exotic pet nutrition and has presented it in the US and Europe.

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