Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital San Diego, California ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.drexotic.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital - COVID-19 Update](https://www.drexotic.com/avian-exotic-animal-hospital-covid-19-update/) - We are open to serve you. Steps we have taken to care for your pets and your safety We have increased both the frequency and scope of disinfection of our hospital in accordance to COVID-19 guidelines. Hours and appointment times have been limited. Employees who are not feeling well or have potential exposure to COVID-19 - [Care and Feeding of Ferrets](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-ferrets/) - When they are very young Vaccinations Kits (young ferrets) should be vaccinated for distemper at 8,* 12 and 16 weeks of age then at one year of age. Reactions to the licenced distemper vaccine are common. Discuss the benefits and risks of vaccination and observe your ferret in the veterinarian's office for at least 20 - [Common Avian Emergencies](https://www.drexotic.com/common-avian-emergencies/) - The critically ill avian patient The most commonly presented avian emergency is that of the critically ill bird. Most often these are birds are found on the bottom of the cage with little if any history of prior signs of illness. The symptoms, visual examination, and initial diagnostics will often establish the direction of treatment - [Diseases of Small Passerine Birds](https://www.drexotic.com/diseases-of-small-passerine-birds/) - The following is a brief outline of the diseases of commonly kept Passerine species, their common presentations, how they are transmitted, their treatment and most importantly their prevention. I. Viral A. Avian pox 1. Three forms a. Dry (skin) b. Diphtheric (wet) c. Respiratory (acute) 2. Mortality 20-100% 3. Morbidity may be high - [Pain and the Avian Patient](https://www.drexotic.com/pain-and-the-avian-patient/) - Pain is poorly understood in avian species. The prevention and alleviation of pain are important for a number of reasons, including humane considerations and the prevention of undesirable metabolic and behavioral side effects because of pain. Criteria that may be used to determine whether a patient is in pain are as follows: Would the inciting - [Ferrets: Insulinoma](https://www.drexotic.com/insulinoma-in-ferrets/) - Insulinoma One of the most common and most devastating of ferret diseases is cancer of the insulin-producing cells called an insulinoma. Other names for this tumor are beta-cell carcinoma or pancreatic endocrine carcinoma. This cancer occurs when the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin (beta-cells) grow out of control. The disease in the ferret - [Energy Required for the Avian Patient](https://www.drexotic.com/energy-required-for-the-avian-patient/) - Calculation of Energy Required for the Avian Patient The generally recognized formula for calculation of metabolic rate is: MR (kcal) = K(Wkg0.75)** Active metabolic rate is somewhat greater than that of a resting bird. For simplicity we will use the value 1.5. Active MR (kcal) = 1.5 X MR (kcal)*** An adjustment factor for growth, - [Care and Feeding of Chinchillas](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-chinchillas/) - Chinchillas make wildly amusing, playful, as well as loveable pets. A chinchilla with good diet and husbandry can remain in your family anywhere for over 20 years with average life spans over 10 years. The average male chinchilla weighs between 400-500 grams, while the females can reach 600 grams. Chinchillas love to play and require - [Guinea Pigs](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-guinea-pigs/) - Guinea pigs are among the cutest pets that people own. They are members of the rodent family and originate in South America. They are also known by the name "cavy" which derives from the scientific name Cavia aperea. Guinea pigs are born fully haired, eyes open and ready to run. They make great pets for - [Care and Feeding of Iguanas](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-iguanas/) - Iguanas are one of the most popular reptiles purchased from pet shops today. This animal can grow anywhere from 4-6 feet in length, reaching a weight of 10-15 pounds. On average, they live 12-15 years in captivity, however they can live over 20 years if care for properly. Iguanas come from a hot and humid - [Care and Feeding of Rats](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-rats/) - "Why a rat?" is one of the most common questions pet owners are asked when showing off their pets. Some of the answers include the fact that rats are highly intelligent, loving and very social pets. They enjoy being with "their people" as well as with other rats. Many owners care for 2-3 rats at - [Care and Feeding of Bearded Dragons and Uromastyx](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-bearded-dragons/) - The bearded dragon and the uromastyx are recognized as wonderful pets due to their calm, easy to handle, domestic nature. Full grown, these lizards may reach one foot in length, making them a moderate and reasonable size. Both the bearded dragon and the uromastyx are colorful, and can be extremely impressive in a uniquely designed - [Care & Feeding of Hedgehogs](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-hedgehogs/) - The pet or domesticated hedgehog, commonly referred to as the African Pygmy Hedgehog is an exceptional animals that is easy to care for and friendly if properly socialized. Not a wild species, the pet hedgehog is a hybrid of two African species (Atelerix algirus) and (A. albiventris). Hedgehogs are classified as insectivorous and in the wild spend most of their time searching - [Care and Feeding of Rabbits](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-feeding-of-rabbits/) - Rabbits are much more social than people think. For generations, people have pictured rabbits outside in a backyard hutch, due to their habit of defecating whenever they feel the need. On the contrary, rabbits can be trained to use a litter box, just like a cat. This new revelation has brought the rabbit from being - [KUSI Pet Patrol](https://www.drexotic.com/kusi-pet-patrol/) - Our very own Dr. Jenkins appeared on KUSI Pet Patrol! Watch the Video - [On the Cover of San Diego Pets Magazine](https://www.drexotic.com/on-the-cover/) - Dr. Jenkins and the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital are on the cover of the May 2013 edition of San Diego Pets Magazine. You can find San Diego Pets Magazine in most San Diego area pet stores, animal boarding facilities, and even many grocery stores. or you can find it on line. The article - [New Location for Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital](https://www.drexotic.com/were-moving-into-our-new-location-january-14th/) - Beginning January 14th we have moved to a new location! Come visit us at our new facility located at: 1276 Morena BlvdSan Diego, Ca 92110 Map and Directions - [Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital on Facebook](https://www.drexotic.com/avian-and-exotic-animal-hospital-on-facebook/) - You can follow the activities of all your friends at the Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital on Facebook or follow us on Twitter - [Laura will be missed by staff and clients](https://www.drexotic.com/laura-will-be-missed-by-staff-and-clients/) - December 01, 2011 It is with great sadness that we bring you the news that our beautiful Laura. the Yellow-Naped Amazon that has lived in our lobby for the last several years, passed away today. Laura spent her first 30+ years living with a San Diego County resident. When her first owner died she came ## Pages - [Home Page](https://www.drexotic.com/) - Extraordinary Care for Extraordinary Animals About our Hospital Established in 1987, the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital is San Diego's exclusive exotics-only veterinary hospital. For nearly four decades, we have provided specialized medical and surgical care for birds and exotic companion animals. Founded by Dr. Jeffrey R. Jenkins, a Diplomate in Avian Practice with the - [Contact](https://www.drexotic.com/contact/) - In case of an after-hour emergency Call (619) 260-1412 Listen to the message for instructions Avian and Exotic Animal Hospital 1276 Morena Blvd. San Diego, CA 92110 Phone: (619) 260-1412 Fax: (619) 260-1499 Email: tech@drexotic.com BUSINESS HOURS Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Friday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. - [Veterinarians](https://www.drexotic.com/veterinarians/) - [Administration](https://www.drexotic.com/administration/) - [Technicians](https://www.drexotic.com/technicians/) - [Front Staff](https://www.drexotic.com/front-staff/) - [Rachel Raguin, DVM](https://www.drexotic.com/dr-rachel-raguin/) - Dr. Rachel Raguin, D.V.MBio Coming Soon! Back to "Meet the Team" - [Services](https://www.drexotic.com/services/) - Comprehensive Care for Avian & Exotic Animals At the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital, we provide a full range of medical, surgical, diagnostic, and preventative services tailored specifically to birds and exotic companion animals. Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering advanced care with compassion and attention to each patient’s unique needs. Preventative & Routine - [Latisha Zamora, Laboratory Manager](https://www.drexotic.com/latisha-zamora/) - Latisha Zamora Laboratory ManagerProfessional Summary Latisha Zamora has been a valued member of the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team since 1994, bringing decades of experience and dedication to the care of exotic and avian patients. As Senior Laboratory Technician, she plays a critical role in ensuring timely and accurate diagnostics, which are essential to - [Amandine Gillet, DVM](https://www.drexotic.com/dr-amandine-gillet/) - Dr. Amandine Gillet, D.V.M.Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) Professional Summary Dr. Gillet grew up in Southern California and has always been passionate about working with exotic animals. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science/Pre-Veterinary Medicine from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from St. George's University in the - [Jeffery R. Jenkins, D.V.M.](https://www.drexotic.com/jeffery-r-jenkins-d-v-m/) - Dr. Jenkins, a husband and father, is internationally recognized for his work in avian medicine and surgery, exotic and laboratory animal medicine and surgery. He has lectured both nationally and internationally on a variety of subjects. His work has been published in peer-reviewed journals, texts and monographs. Biography and C.V. Jeffrey R. Jenkins, D.V.M. Dr. - [Meet the Team](https://www.drexotic.com/meet-the-team/) - Doctors Our experienced veterinarians are dedicated to compassionate exotic and avian care. Jeffery R. Jenkins D.V.M View Profile Amandine Gillet D.V.M View Profile Rachel Raguin D.V.M View Profile Administrative Staff Our administrative team ensures every visit runs smoothly, providing attentive support and exceptional client service. Christine Hendrick Practice Manager View Profile Lisa Jenkins Owner & - [Madison Holm, CSR](https://www.drexotic.com/madison-holm/) - Madison Holm Client Services RepresentativeProfessional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital - [Victoria Jenkins, Boarding Manager](https://www.drexotic.com/victoria-jenkins-2/) - Victoria Jenkins Boarding ManagerProfessional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital Back to "Meet the Team" - [Madelyn Jones, CSR](https://www.drexotic.com/madelyn-jones/) - Madelyn Jones Client Service RepresentativeProfessional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital - [Lisa Jenkins, Owner & Practice Administrator](https://www.drexotic.com/lisa-jenkins/) - Lisa Jenkins Owner and Practice Administrator Professional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital Back to "Meet the Team" - [Jeffery R. Jenkins, DVM](https://www.drexotic.com/dr-jeffery-r-jenkins/) - Dr. Jeffery R. Jenkins D.V.M. About Dr. Jenkins, a husband and father, is internationally recognized for his work in avian medicine and surgery, exotic and laboratory animal medicine and surgery. He has lectured both nationally and internationally on a variety of subjects. His work has been published in peer-reviewed journals, texts and - [Priscilla Quinonez, CSR](https://www.drexotic.com/priscilla-quinonez/) - Priscilla Quinonez Client Service Representative Professional Summary Pracilla joined the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team in 2024 and brings a strong foundation in agriculture and veterinary medicine from her upbringing. With a desire to work in the medical field while remaining closely connected to animals, she found her place supporting clients and patients in - [Shelly Meszaros, RVT & CSR](https://www.drexotic.com/shelly-meszaros/) - Shelly Meszaros Client Service Representative & Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) Professional Summary Shelly has been a dedicated member of the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team since 1991, bringing more than three decades of experience, compassion, and hands-on expertise to patient and client care. As both a Client Service Representative and Registered Veterinary Technician, she - [Aisha Bishop, Veterinary Technician](https://www.drexotic.com/aisha-bishop/) - Aisha Bishop Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) Professional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital Back to "Meet the Team" - [Kaylee Vikdal, Digital Media Specialist](https://www.drexotic.com/kaylee-vikdal/) - Kaylee Vikdal Client Services Representative & Digital Media Manager Professional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital - [James Waterford, CSR](https://www.drexotic.com/james-waterford/) - James Waterford Client Service Representative & Vet Tech in Training Professional Summary James joined the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team in 2025 and brings a strong passion for animal care rooted in a lifelong love of the ocean and marine life. Inspired by veterinary professionals during time spent at Birch Aquarium, James pursued a - [Isabelle Campuzano, RVT](https://www.drexotic.com/isabelle-campuzano/) - Isabelle Campuzano Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) Professional Summary Isabelle has been part of the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team for three years, beginning her journey as a kennel assistant before advancing to become a Registered Veterinary Technician. With a longstanding interest in wildlife and conservation, she has always known she would build a career - [Daisy Zabata, RVT](https://www.drexotic.com/daisy-zabata/) - Daisy Zabata Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) Professional Summary Daisy has been part of the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team for four years and brings both clinical skill and heartfelt dedication to her work. Her journey into veterinary medicine began with a beloved Red-lored Amazon parrot who became ill, an experience that inspired her to - [Christine Hendrick, Practice Manager](https://www.drexotic.com/christine-hendrick/) - Christine Hendrick Hospital Manager Professional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital Back to "Meet the Team" - [Ciera Aguilar, Veterinary Technician](https://www.drexotic.com/ciera-aguilar/) - Ciera Aguilar Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) Professional Summary Professional Role & Experience Special Interests & Areas of Focus Education & Training Outside the Hospital - [Abby LaSogga, Veterinary Technician](https://www.drexotic.com/abby-lasogga/) - Abby LaSogga Veterinary Technician Professional Summary Abby joined the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team in January 2022 and brings a strong academic and hands-on background in both zoology and exotic animal care. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology and Zoology from San Diego State University and initially planned to pursue a career as - [Client Drug Information](https://www.drexotic.com/drug-information/) - The following resources provide important information regarding medications prescribed by our hospital. If you have questions about your pet's prescription, please contact our team. A AmikacinAmoxicillinAmphotericin BAmpicillinArtificial Tears (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose)Azithrommycin B Bacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B OphthalmicBacitracin + Neomycin + Polymyxin B with Steroid OphthalmicBlood Building SupplementBuprenorphineButorphanol Tartrate C CapromorelinCeftazidimeChlorhexidine FlushCiprofloxacin OphthalmicClotrimazole Topical D - [About Us](https://www.drexotic.com/about/) - Jeffrey R. Jenkins, D.V.M. Dr. Jenkins, a husband and father, is internationally recognized for his work in avian medicine and surgery, exotic and laboratory animal medicine and surgery. He has lectured both nationally and internationally on a variety of subjects. His work has been published in peer reviewed journals, texts and monographs. Dr. Jenkins - [Amandine Gillet D.V. M.](https://www.drexotic.com/about/dr-gillet/) - Dr. Gillet grew up in Southern California and graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Animal Science/ Pre-vet from Cal Polytechnic Pomona and her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from St. Georges University in the Caribbean. She completed her clinical rotations at Louisiana State University. Her passion has always been to work with exotic animals. Before - [Forms](https://www.drexotic.com/forms/) - Downloads Client Information Sheet Bird Boarding Profile for Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital Boarding Authorization Form - [Care and Health Info](https://www.drexotic.com/care-and-health-info/) - Common Avian Emergencies The critically ill avian patient The most commonly presented avian emergency is that of the critically ill bird. Most often these are birds are found on the bottom of the cage with little if any history of prior signs of illness. The symptoms, visual examination, and initial diagnostics will often establish the - [Test](https://www.drexotic.com/test/) - [Jeffrey R. Jenkins, D.V.M.](https://www.drexotic.com/about/jeffrey-r-jenkins-d-v-m/) - Dr. Jenkins, a husband and father, is internationally recognized for his work in avian medicine and surgery, exotic and laboratory animal medicine and surgery. He has lectured both nationally and internationally on a variety of subjects. His work has been published in peer-reviewed journals, texts and monographs. Biography and C.V. Jeffrey R. Jenkins, D.V.M. Dr. - [Latisha Zamora, Senior Laboratory Technician](https://www.drexotic.com/about/latisha-zamora/) - I have been with the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital since 1994. As the Senior Laboratory Technician, I am responsible for the entire in-house laboratory testing including hematology, microbiology and parasitology. I also oversee the comings and goings of diagnostic tests performed outside of the Hospital at reference laboratories. My position is very unique, as - [Shelly Meszaros, Client Services](https://www.drexotic.com/about/shelly-meszaros/) - I have been working in the veterinary field since 1985. I began as a technician at Melrose Pet Clinic where we worked on dogs and cats. I completed my BA in English Literature from San Diego State University. I then went on to Mesa College to complete the Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) program. Upon graduation - [Lisa Jenkins, Hospital Manager](https://www.drexotic.com/about/lisa-jenkins/) - Since 1993 I’ve served as Hospital Manager for the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital. I work in an environment surrounded by a variety of interesting people and animals.This practice is truly extraordinary! Each day is filled with something new and exciting. It’s wonderful being part of such a fabulous team of people. The staff here - [Resources](https://www.drexotic.com/resources/) - The following links lead to businesses or organizations that in one way or another promote high quality care and management of exotic animals. While the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital does not directly endorse or support these sites, we feel that they maintain high standards and are worthy of mention. Local Bird Clubs and Organizations - [Photo Gallery](https://www.drexotic.com/photo-gallery/) - [News](https://www.drexotic.com/news-2/) - [Dr. Jenkins on KUSI Pet Patrol!](https://www.drexotic.com/kusi-pet-patrol/) - Our very own Dr. Jenkins appeared on KUSI Pet Patrol! Watch the Video - [Common Questions](https://www.drexotic.com/common-questions/) - What is the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital? The Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital, located in San Diego, California, is a primary care and referral veterinary practice limited to: The practice is world renown for the innovative and quality care it offers its clients and their animals. What animals do you treat at your practice? - [Care & Health Info](https://www.drexotic.com/care-health-info/) - [0 Test](https://www.drexotic.com/0-test/) ## Categories - [News](https://www.drexotic.com/news/news/) - [Chinchillas](https://www.drexotic.com/news/chinchillas/) - [Guinea Pigs](https://www.drexotic.com/news/guinea-pigs/) - [Iguanas](https://www.drexotic.com/news/iguanas/) - [Rats](https://www.drexotic.com/news/rats/) - [Bearded Dragons](https://www.drexotic.com/news/bearded-dragons/) - [Ferrets](https://www.drexotic.com/news/ferrets/) - [Hedgehogs](https://www.drexotic.com/news/hedgehogs/) - [Rabbits](https://www.drexotic.com/news/rabbits/) - [Avian](https://www.drexotic.com/news/avian/) - [Care and Health](https://www.drexotic.com/news/care-and-health/)