Call before you drive. An exotic animal veterinarian is not on duty at every hour in every hospital. Tell the team the species and the problem, and ask whether they can see your pet now or which hospital can.
Emergency hospitals that see exotic pets near Huntsville
Huntsville Veterinary Specialists & Emergency
Open now · 24/7800 Doctor Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard, Huntsville, AL 35801Exotic petsICUEmergency surgeryCT or MRIBlood transfusionWalk-insWhat the hospital says: “Jennifer Graham will head our Avian & Exotics service working in a part-time manner.”
Verified November 4, 20264.4 miles(256) 715-8389North Alabama Veterinary Emergency & Specialty
Emergency hours vary, call first164 John Thomas Dr., Madison, AL 35757Exotic petsICUEmergency surgeryBlood transfusionCareCreditScratchpayWhat the hospital says: “…or need immediate care for your pet, call us at (256) 850-0077 . We Welcome Animals of All Varieties Including: Common Household Pets: Dogs and cats Exotic Pets: Birds, Ferrets, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Hedgehogs, Sugar Gliders, and…”
Verified November 4, 202613 miles(256) 850-0077
Listed only where the hospital's own website says it treats exotic species; the quote shows the wording. Distances are straight-line from the center of Huntsville. For dogs and cats, see all emergency vets in Huntsville.
While you travel
- Birds: keep the bird warm (a covered carrier in a warm car) and quiet; do not offer food or water if it is weak or breathing with effort.
- Rabbits: a rabbit that stops eating or passing droppings for 12 hours needs the same-day attention of a veterinarian.
- Reptiles: transport in a secure, ventilated container at the animal's normal temperature range; avoid overheating in the car.
Poison emergencies
If you think your pet swallowed something toxic
Call one of the two national animal poison lines while you get ready to leave. Both are staffed by veterinary toxicology specialists around the clock; expect a consultation fee per case.
ASPCA (888) 426-4435 Helpline (855) 764-7661
Numbers checked on the official ASPCA and Pet Poison Helpline sites, November 2026. What to do while you call. Dose calculators: chocolate, xylitol, grapes and raisins, ibuprofen.