At Windward Animal Hospital, we specialize in providing advanced veterinary care for exotic pets of all kinds. Led by Dr. Stewart Colby and recently joined by Dr. Alex Scales, our team brings years of hands-on expertise to the unique world of exotic species medicine. Centrally located, conveniently for Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Suwanee and Cumming, we are proud to deliver customized, species-specific care for exotic companions beyond the traditional dog and cat.

WHY CHOOSE WINDWARD ANIMAL HOSPITAL FOR YOUR EXOTIC PET?

At Windward Animal Hospital, exotic pet care is not an afterthought — it’s a priority. Our veterinarians are passionate about delivering the highest standard of care for exotic animals, combining advanced diagnostics with decades of hands-on experience. With a full-service facility and an in-depth understanding of exotic species medicine, we are proud to be a trusted veterinary partner for pet owners.

WHAT ARE EXOTIC SPECIES?

Exotic species are pets that fall outside of the typical companion animal category and require specialized veterinary care, tailored environments, and species-specific nutrition. These animals often hide signs of illness until diseases are advanced, making preventive care and early diagnosis critical.

Because exotic pets have unique biological and behavioral needs, it is essential to seek veterinary care from a clinic experienced in treating your specific species—or similar species—rather than relying on a general practice designed primarily for dogs and cats. At Windward Animal Hospital, we are dedicated to thinking beyond the traditional model, offering progressive, knowledgeable care for exotic animals.

COMMONLY SEEN TYPES OF EXOTIC SPECIES

At Windward Animal Hospital, we commonly care for a wide variety of exotic pets such as: Reptiles (bearded dragons, leopard geckos, blue tongue skinks, ball pythons, hognose snakes, corn snakes, iguanas, and tortoises like the red-footed and sulcata.) Birds (cockatiels, parakeets, conures, Amazons, African grey parrots, lovebirds, finches, canaries, and macaws.) Small Mammals (ferrets, chinchillas, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, fancy rats, mice, and hamsters.) Amphibians, (axolotls, salamander, toads, and tree frogs.) We also provide some veterinary services for Aquatic Species (bettas and koi fish.) In the category of Primates and Other Exotics (monkeys, kinkajous, savannah cats, and servals.)

No matter how common or rare your exotic companion may be, our veterinary team is committed to providing exceptional, species-appropriate medical care.

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EXOTIC PET VETERINARY SERVICES

Early preventive care is critical for exotic species. Our Exotic Pet Wellness Exams include a comprehensive health evaluation, habitat and diet review, and species-specific wellness recommendations to help your exotic pet thrive. Routine checkups are the best way to catch small problems before they become serious health issues.

Oral health is often overlooked in exotic pets but can have a major impact on overall wellness. Our Exotic Pet Dental Care services include thorough dental assessments and treatments to address conditions like malocclusions, tooth abscesses, and gum disease, ensuring a healthier and happier pet.

Fast, accurate diagnostics are essential for treating exotic pets. Our Exotic Pet Diagnostic Imaging services utilize digital radiography and ultrasound technology to investigate internal concerns without invasive procedures, giving us critical insights into your pet’s health when every moment counts.

Surgical needs in exotic pets demand a precise, delicate approach. We offer a full range of Exotic Pet Surgery services, from soft tissue surgeries to emergency procedures, using anesthesia protocols customized for small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds to maximize safety and recovery outcomes.

Proper nutrition is often the key to preventing many health issues in exotic animals. Our Exotic Pet Nutritional Counseling helps owners design species-appropriate diets that support growth, immune function, and longevity. Whether you’re caring for a tropical bird, desert reptile, or primate, we’ll ensure their dietary needs are expertly met.

Behavioral changes are often early indicators of health or husbandry problems. Our Exotic Pet Behavioral Consultations help identify causes of stress, aggression, feather plucking, or self-injury. We work closely with owners to recommend modifications that improve the mental and emotional well-being of exotic pets.

Dr. Stewart Colby is recognized as a Consulting Veterinarian for several wildlife facilities throughout North Georgia such as the North Georgia Zoo. In addition, Dr. Colby lends his expertise to the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve in Dahlonega, Georgia, where he has overseen the care of a variety of exotic animals, including lions, tigers, and koalas.

Dr. Stewart Colby is also recognized by the Georgia House Rabbit Society (GHRS) as their preferred veterinarian for rabbit care. Operating out of Windward Animal Hospital in Johns Creek, Dr. Colby collaborates closely with GHRS to provide specialized services, including a low-cost spay and neuter program tailored specifically for rabbits.

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We did a search for websites that provide basic care for some common species to help with the educational process of being an awesome Pet Parent:   

Guinea Pigs

Guinea Pig Care Guide: Provides tips on diet, housing, and common health problems like respiratory infections and dental issues. Guinea Pig Care – VCA Animal Hospital

Chinchillas

Chinchilla Care: Covers everything from housing and diet to common ailments like fur ring and dental disease. Chinchilla Care – LafeberVet

Ferrets

Ferret Care and Preventative Medicine: Detailed info on ferret diet, grooming, vaccinations, and disease prevention. Ferret Care – American Ferret Association

Birds (Parrots, Budgies, etc.)

Bird Care and Health Maintenance: A guide to diet, environmental needs, and common health concerns for pet birds. Bird Care – LafeberVet

Pot-Bellied Pigs

Potbellied Pig Care: Covers nutrition, vaccinations, hoof care, and common health issues. Potbellied Pig Care – The Humane Society

Common Pet Monkeys

Monkey Care: Information on diet, enrichment, and medical needs, including vaccination schedules. Monkey Care – Primarily Primates

Common Pet Lizards (Bearded Dragons, Geckos, etc.)

Lizard Care: Guides for different lizards covering habitat, diet, UV lighting, and common illnesses like metabolic bone disease. Lizard Care – Reptiles Magazine