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OPEN MONDAY – FRIDAY 5:00pm to 9:00PM
A guinea pig’s excited squeaking at the sound of a rustling bag, a hamster running full speed on its wheel at midnight, a gerbil digging tunnels through fresh bedding. Small mammals bring a surprising amount of personality and joy into our homes, but their tiny bodies carry health needs that are just as important as those of any larger pet.
At Venetian Pet Hospital, we provide small mammal veterinary care in Stockton, CA, for gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, and other pocket pets. Our team is ready to help you keep your little companion healthy from their first day home to their golden years.
Our dedicated team is here to provide urgent, high-quality care for your pets—because they’re family and deserve immediate attention when it matters most!
Small mammals are prone to a variety of health conditions that can progress quickly if left untreated. Because these animals are prey species, they often hide symptoms of pain and illness. Regular veterinary checkups are one of the best ways to catch problems early. Research published by the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine highlights that each small mammal species has its own distinct anatomy, dietary needs, and predisposition to certain diseases, making species-specific veterinary care essential.
Guinea pigs are social animals that thrive in pairs or groups. They are one of the few mammals that cannot produce their own vitamin C, so their diet must include supplemental sources of this nutrient to prevent scurvy. Guinea pigs are also prone to dental disease, respiratory infections, and skin parasites. In Switzerland, it is even illegal to own a single guinea pig because they can suffer psychologically without a companion.
Hamsters are typically solitary and nocturnal, which means changes in their activity levels may be harder to spot. Common health issues include wet tail, a bacterial intestinal condition that can be fatal if not treated promptly, as well as dental overgrowth, skin conditions, and respiratory infections. Cedar bedding should always be avoided because its fumes can irritate a hamster’s sensitive airways.
Gerbils are active, curious rodents that do best in pairs. They produce very little urine and are naturally clean, which makes them relatively low-maintenance. However, gerbils can develop seizures, especially if they haven’t been handled regularly from a young age. They are also susceptible to nasal dermatitis, dental problems, and tumors as they age.
A balanced diet is the cornerstone of small mammal health. Guinea pigs need unlimited hay, fresh vegetables rich in vitamin C, and high-quality pellets. Hamsters and gerbils thrive on commercially prepared pellets supplemented with small amounts of fresh produce. We offer nutritional counseling to help you build a feeding plan that keeps your small pet in great shape.
Our veterinary team provides wellness exams, diagnostics, dental care, parasite treatment, and surgical services for small mammals. Whether your guinea pig needs a dental trim, your hamster has developed a skin condition, or your gerbil is due for a checkup, we have the experience and gentle touch to provide excellent care.
Venetian Pet Hospital is a family-owned practice where every pet, no matter how small, matters. Our Stockton, CA, team provides compassionate, knowledgeable care for gerbils, guinea pigs, hamsters, and all the other little creatures that bring so much happiness to your home. Dr. Hanh Do and our entire veterinary team look forward to meeting your furry friend.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your small mammal.
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