NEW AT PUTNAM VETERINARY CLINIC SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2011


What’s up, Doc?

bunny

by Connie Orcutt, DVM, Dipl. ABVP (Avian and Exotic Companion Mammals)

For the past 18 years, my clinical practice has included exclusively exotic pets (“exotic” meaning any small animal that is not a dog or cat). During that time, I’ve seen a number of changes in the longevity of and disease processes affecting my feathered, furred, and scaled patients. Many advances, particularly those involving diet and at-home care, have resulted from our greater understanding of the species-specific needs of these unique animals. One of the most remarkable success stories has been the increasing lifespan of pet rabbits. Eighteen years ago, it was common for rabbits to live for 6-7 years (generally the smaller the breed, the longer the lifespan). These days, it’s relatively common for me to see 10- and 12-year-old rabbits still comfortable at home (like Milkyway, the little Red Sox fan cheering his team on in the photo). In fact, the longest-lived rabbit I’ve cared for was almost 18 years old! This has not happened by chance, nor is it the result of breeding or genetic alterations. Instead, I think it can be attributed to the following 3 developments….you can click on each link to learn more.
• Improved diets
• Preventative spaying
• Routine veterinary care