Most veterinarians are trained to treat cats, dogs, or common livestock. A few may have some education (or experience) with other pets such as rabbits or birds, but there are few that specialize in care for exotic pets. This will be especially true of veterinarians in rural areas, or smaller cities, where the volume of exotic pets will be smaller. Unless the veterinarian themselves owns such animals they simply do not encounter them often enough to be very familiar with care and special needs of some exotic pets.
Treating exotic pets, and unusual livestock, is not as simple as you may think. Some species have allergies to certain medications, or face greater risks from anesthesia. As well certain species have different dietary needs, or risks. For example Guinea Pigs must have Vitamin C added to their diet, but rabbits do not. Sheep cannot have copper, but goats need it.
Anyone interested in keeping an exotic pet, or unusual livestock animal, should first seek out good veterinary services for their pets.
Read How to Find a Veterinarian for Exotic Pets
