Avian Veterinary Services in Rochester, NY
At Lakeside Animal Hospital, we understand that birds are more than just pets. They’re intelligent, social companions with unique needs. Whether you have a parakeet, cockatiel, parrot, or even backyard chickens, proper bird care requires experienced knowledge in nutrition, behavior, and medical treatment. We are excited to share that Dr. Heidi A. Licata will see your feathered friend and provides comprehensive avian veterinary services in Rochester, NY.
Understanding Avian Care: Nutrition, Husbandry & Hygiene
Birds thrive in environments that closely replicate their natural habitat.
During your avian wellness visit, we’ll discuss:
- Nutrition: Many health issues stem from poor diets. We’ll talk about species-specific feeding plans, including pellet-based diets, safe fruits and vegetables, and essential supplements.
- Husbandry: Proper cage size, perches, environmental enrichment, and social interaction are vital to your bird’s mental and physical well-being.
- Hygiene: Cleanliness is key. We'll discuss how to safely clean cages, manage droppings, and recognize changes in feather condition or behavior that might indicate illness.
Our goal is to help bird owners feel confident in their ability to provide a safe, enriching, and healthy home environment.
Avian Veterinary Services Offered
At Lakeside Animal Hospital, we’re equipped to handle a variety of avian health needs.
Our avian services include:
- Preventive and wellness care
- Illness and injury care
- Beak, nail, and wing trims (wing trims are performed exclusively by the veterinarian)
- In-house diagnostics, including digital radiographs
- All blood work is done at a reference lab specialized for avians
- Partnership with a specialized exotic pet reference lab
- Genetic testing
Please note that we do not treat noxious species or arachnids.
Why Choose Lakeside Animal Hospital for Your Bird’s Care?
Dr. Heidi A. Licata has a passion for exotic animal medicine and years of experience treating a wide range of avian species. Whether you're caring for a small songbird or a more complex exotic bird, you can trust that we provide quality, affordable care tailored to your bird’s unique health needs, right here in Rochester, NY.
Frequently Asked Questions About Avian Veterinary Care
Q: How often should my bird see a veterinarian?
A: Birds should have a wellness exam at least once a year. Regular checkups help catch subtle signs of illness that birds often hide until it becomes serious.
Q: Does my bird need a wing trim?
A: Not all birds need wing trims, and some owners prefer to keep their birds flighted. If a trim is desired, it must be done carefully by a trained professional like our veterinarian to avoid injury.
Q: What are common signs of illness in birds?
A: Watch for changes in eating or droppings, puffed-up feathers, lethargy, discharge from the eyes or nostrils, or changes in vocalization. Birds often hide illness, so even small changes should prompt a vet visit.
We're here to help your feathered friend live a long, healthy life.
If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (585) 467-2120, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!