I agree with Joanna, let the vet(s) know ASAP! That may have been an unthought comment, but it was stupid, uneducated, and rude...especially in front of a 'small animal/exotic' owner. They need to know about that employee.

On a similar note, I've heard very similar comments when I worked at Petsmart, as well as when I would be shopping or talking about my snakes and rodents. Tons of people out there have that 'PETA' attitude that if it can't run around 'free' and do something for the owner then it's a captive and not a pet. SIGH There's just no hope for people like that...