Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital - Exotics Department
Full Service Veterinary General, Referral, and Emergency Practice for Exotic Pets
Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital Exotics Department is a full service veterinary general, referral, and emergency practice for exotic pets serving the Cleveland and Akron areas. The veterinary team includes Dr. Emily Velez, Ohio's first board-certified reptile and amphibian specialist (DABVP), and Dr. Riggs with over 30 years of exotic animal medicine experience. Although thorough physical examinations are still their best diagnostic tools, the practice offers a full range of diagnostic and treatment options including in-house blood work, digital radiography, ultrasound, CT scans, endoscopy, and laparoscopy for pets from parakeets to pythons to goldfish to Siberian tigers. When required, climate-controlled intensive care hospitalization staffed by experienced exotic animal registered technicians is available. The hospital has the surgical experience and expertise for any required soft tissue surgery, orthopedic surgery, and low impact laparoscopic surgery. The clinic operate at two locations: Norton/Barberton (main exotics department) and Cleveland East (Highland Heights).
Exotic Species Treated at Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital - Exotics Department
Includes: parrots, cockatiels, budgies, finches, canaries, macaws
Includes: snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises, iguanas, bearded dragons
Includes: rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, mice
Includes: frogs, toads, salamanders, axolotls, newts
Includes: koi, goldfish, tropical fish, all aquatic species
Includes: exotic cats, foxes, wolves, prairie dogs, raccoons, skunks
Veterinary Services & Capabilities
wellness examinations
Preventive & Husbandry Medicine
vaccinations
Preventive & Husbandry Medicine
parasite prevention
Preventive & Husbandry Medicine
in-house laboratory
Exotic Diagnostics & Imaging
complete blood work
Exotic Diagnostics & Imaging
blood chemistry panels
Exotic Diagnostics & Imaging
soft tissue surgery
Surgical & Dental Care
orthopedic surgery
Surgical & Dental Care
After-Hours Online Triage & Exotic Pet Coverage Options
Need an Exotic Vet Right Now or After Hours?
Connect with a licensed avian, reptile, or exotic mammal veterinarian in minutes via live 24/7 video consult on Vetster or instant exotic vet Q&A.
Offset Exotic Vet Exam, X-Ray & Surgery Bills
Compare Nationwide Avian & Exotic Pet Insurance (reimburses eligible claims at any licensed US vet) or save 25% at participating practices with Pet Assure.
Reptile UVB Lighting, Thermostats & Terrarium Supplies
Proper Arcadia/Zoo Med UVB lighting and digital thermostat heating prevent 80% of metabolic reptile emergencies.
Pricing & Partner Disclosure: Any veterinary cost figures or savings ranges referenced on Exotic Vets are independent, aggregated industry estimates for informational purposes only, are not provided by any individual veterinary clinic, and are subject to change without notice. Always contact the clinic directly for current fees.
Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital - Exotics Department Reviews & Pet Owner Feedback
4.9 out of 5
(based on 380 verified reviews)
Jessica M.
2024-11
Dr. Velez is incredible! She's the only board-certified reptile vet in Ohio and it shows. My tortoise received expert care that I couldn't find anywhere else. Worth the drive from Cleveland!
Robert K.
2024-10
The emergency service saved my bird's life at midnight. The staff was professional and caring even in the middle of the night. So grateful for their 24/7 exotic care!
Amanda L.
2024-09
Dr. Riggs has been caring for our ferret for years. His 30+ years of experience really shows. The CT scan capability was crucial for diagnosing our pet's condition. Highly recommend!