Quote Originally Posted by CritterVet View Post
For people who don't have qualified herp vets in their area, keep in mind that non-qualified vets can be open-minded and willing to work with you. I have no problems being schooled by clients when it's a species I've never seen before. I am trained in the nitty gritty of physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, surgery, etc, but not the details of husbandry, natural history, and diet of all the thousands of herp species out there. Combining my skills (and prescription pad) with an owner's knowledge of a certain species can make a great team. I also have no problem calling other vets who are more experienced with me in certain species to consult with. Better yet is when the client brings me the phone number. That said, I also know my limits, and when I'm out of my league I will help the owner find a better-qualified vet if possible.

Regarding fees, I agree that vets charge more for exotics -- as they should. It's a specialty that takes more training and investment of time, energy, and money for special equipment. Also, exotics appointments almost always take longer than dog & cat appointments.

Of course they're "willing to work with you". They're basically getting paid to go to school. BG did have Vet years ago that did just that though. She "worked" with BG. Since BG knew other "qualified Vets" and large breeders in other states, BG knew what was "cutting edge". Not many Vets used "Fortaz" years ago. BG heard about it from Pete Kahl and his Vet. She called the Vets and got advice and could prescribe it to BG. She would do it for next to nothing since BG was basically "taking her to school". Fortaz also works great when boas get an RI during breeding season. Someone always will..... they are not as strong as Balls.

BG is gonna give you some good advice CV. Scott Stahl in Virginia is a great knowledgeable Vet. If you ever have a question with something give him a call and BG is sure he'll help you out. If you tell him you met Big Gunns on line(sounds kinda gay) he'll be able to tell you how great The Man, The Myth, The Legend in his own mind really is. One problem though. Only forum losers like Big Gunns and the rest of us know who he is. Scott probably doesn't know Big Gunns as Big Gunns.