Exotic Pet Vet in Richmond, BC
Exotic pet care for rabbits, reptiles, and small mammals in Richmond.
Exotic pets often show illness in subtle ways. Francis Petcare Hospital provides species-aware veterinary care for rabbits, reptiles, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, hedgehogs, snakes, lizards, and other small mammals.
Call ahead for urgent concerns during clinic hours. Francis Petcare Hospital is not a 24/7 emergency hospital.
“Such a relief to have a reliable exotic pet vet in Richmond. Dr. Martinez understood exactly what was going on with our rabbit.”
Species We See
Exotic pet care for a wide range of species
We provide veterinary care for a wide range of exotic pets. If you are unsure whether we see your species, please call us.
Species-Aware Care
Why exotic pets need a vet who knows their species
Exotic pets hide illness
Rabbits, reptiles, and small mammals are prey animals by instinct. They often mask pain and illness until symptoms are advanced — which means regular check-ups and early attention to subtle changes matter more, not less.
Anatomy and physiology differ significantly
A rabbit's digestive system, a reptile's thermoregulation, a ferret's adrenal tendencies — these require species-specific knowledge that goes well beyond general dog and cat medicine.
Handling and stress protocols matter
Stress during a vet visit can be genuinely harmful for small exotic mammals. Our team uses low-stress handling techniques appropriate to each species.
Nutrition and habitat are part of the diagnosis
Many exotic pet health issues trace back to diet or environment. A species-aware vet asks the right questions about your setup, not just the presenting symptom.
When to Call
Symptoms that warrant same-day attention
If you notice any of these signs, call us to describe what you are seeing. We will advise whether a same-day appointment is needed.
- Not eating or drinking for more than 24 hours
- Laboured, open-mouth, or wheezing breathing
- Hunched posture, grinding teeth, or signs of pain
- Soft or absent stools (rabbits and guinea pigs)
- Lethargy, weakness, or inability to move normally
- Swelling, wounds, or visible masses
- Reptile that has not moved or eaten in several days
- Any change in behaviour that feels off to you
Francis Petcare is not a 24/7 emergency hospital. For life-threatening emergencies outside clinic hours, contact a 24/7 emergency clinic in the Lower Mainland.
Your Visit
What to expect at your exotic pet appointment
Intake and history
We ask detailed questions about diet, housing, temperature, substrate, and recent behaviour changes — not just symptoms.
Species-appropriate exam
Physical examination is tailored to your pet's species, with low-stress handling and species-specific normal ranges in mind.
Diagnostics as needed
Blood work, radiographs, fecal analysis, and other diagnostics can be performed on-site when indicated.
Clear treatment plan
You leave with a clear understanding of what we found, what we recommend, and what to watch for at home.
Our Team
Veterinary care led by Dr. Joseph Martinez
Dr. Martinez brings decades of veterinary experience and a special focus on exotic pet medicine, including rabbits, reptiles, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, hedgehogs, snakes, lizards, cats, and dogs.
- Species-aware exotic pet medicine
- Rabbits, reptiles, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, hedgehogs
- Snakes, lizards, and other small mammals
- Cats and dogs
Patient Stories
What clients say about exotic pet care at Francis Petcare
“Such a relief to have a reliable exotic pet vet in Richmond. Dr. Martinez understood exactly what was going on with our rabbit and explained everything clearly.”
“I was nervous bringing my rabbit to a new vet but the team at Francis Petcare was so knowledgeable. They knew exactly how to handle her and I felt completely at ease.”
“Finding a vet who actually knows hamsters is harder than it sounds. Francis Petcare took our little one seriously and gave us a thorough, practical care plan.”
Related Services
Other exotic care services at Francis Petcare
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Francis Petcare Hospital · Richmond, BC
Ready to book an exotic pet appointment?
Call us to speak with our team, or book online. Same-day urgent appointments may be available during clinic hours — please call ahead.