1

Exotic Pet Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As a full-service veterinary clinic, we offer comprehensive healthcare services for pets, including wellness care, sick visits, surgery, dentistry, laboratory diagnostics, exotic pet care, and an ...

Veterinarian

West Lawn, PA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Larkin Veterinary Center is a practice built on the belief that patient care and comfort come first, whether it be a dog, cat, or exotic pet. We pride ourselves on preventative care through routine ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Exotic Pet information

See salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do exotic pet jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for exotic pet in the United States is $17.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are exotic pets?

Exotic pets are animals that are not commonly kept as household pets and typically include species that are less domesticated than cats or dogs. Examples include reptiles like snakes and lizards, birds such as parrots, small mammals like ferrets or sugar gliders, and even some amphibians and insects. Keeping exotic pets often requires specialized knowledge, unique habitats, and adherence to local regulations. Owners should be aware of the animal's specific dietary, environmental, and social needs. It's important to research thoroughly before acquiring an exotic pet to ensure proper care and legal compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Exotic Pet Veterinarians in daily practice?

Exotic Pet Veterinarians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing rare conditions due to the wide variety of species they treat, each with unique anatomy and medical needs. They may also face difficulties in obtaining accurate medical histories, as owners may not recognize subtle signs of illness in exotic animals. Additionally, sourcing specialized medications or equipment can be complex, and educating pet owners about proper husbandry is a frequent and essential part of the job. Collaboration with veterinary technicians and sometimes with wildlife specialists is common to ensure comprehensive care.

What is an Exotic Pet job?

An Exotic Pet job typically involves the care, handling, and sometimes breeding of unusual or non-traditional pets such as reptiles, birds, amphibians, and small mammals. Professionals in this field may work as exotic pet veterinarians, zookeepers, breeders, or pet store specialists. Responsibilities can include feeding, habitat maintenance, health monitoring, and educating pet owners. This job requires specialized knowledge of exotic animal behavior, diets, and medical needs. Some positions may also involve rehabilitation or conservation efforts for rare species.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exotic Pet Veterinarian, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exotic Pet Veterinarian, you need in-depth knowledge of exotic animal medicine, strong diagnostic abilities, and a DVM degree with appropriate licensure. Familiarity with specialized diagnostic tools, anesthesia equipment, and species-specific treatment protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and patience help build trust with pet owners and manage the unique challenges of treating non-traditional pets. These skills are critical for providing high-quality care and ensuring the health and well-being of a diverse range of exotic animals.

What is the difference between Exotic Pet vs Exotic Animal Care Specialist?

AspectExotic PetExotic Animal Care Specialist
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge, certifications varyVeterinary or specialized animal care certifications
Work EnvironmentPet stores, private homes, rescue centersZoos, wildlife sanctuaries, veterinary clinics
Industry UsagePet ownership, retailAnimal conservation, research, veterinary care
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding exotic pet careSpecialized animal care and conservation

Exotic Pet refers to individual owners or pet enthusiasts caring for unique or non-traditional animals, often in retail or private settings. Exotic Animal Care Specialist involves professional care, often with veterinary or specialized training, working in zoos or sanctuaries. While both roles focus on exotic animals, the specialist role requires more advanced credentials and operates in more formal, conservation-oriented environments.

What cities are hiring for Exotic Pet jobs? Cities with the most Exotic Pet job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Exotic Pet jobs? The most popular types of Exotic Pet jobs are:
What states have the most Exotic Pet jobs? States with the most job openings for Exotic Pet jobs include:
Infographic showing various Exotic Pet job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,688 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Veterinarian - Exotics (Sign-on Bonus!)

Cove Animal Health

Plymouth Meeting, PA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Exotic Animal Veterinarian Hickory Veterinary and Specialty Hospital

Plymouth Meeting, PA | Full-Time

Are you an experienced or residency-trained Exotic Animal Veterinarian looking for a collaborative hospital that values innovation, advanced medicine, and compassionate patient care? Hickory Veterinary and Specialty Hospital is seeking a dedicated veterinarian to help grow and support our expanding exotic companion animal services within our thriving hybrid general practice, specialty, and emergency hospital.

A Legacy of Trust, A Future of Innovation

For over 75 years, Hickory has been a trusted leader in veterinary medicine, serving the Greater Philadelphia community with exceptional patient care and advanced medical services. As a 24/7, AAHA-accredited hospital and a proud member of the COVE Animal Health networkan independent, veterinarian-led group of hospitals across the Northeastwe offer the benefits of strong community roots paired with progressive technology and regional collaboration.

Provide Specialized Care for Exotic Companion Animals

As our Exotic Animal Veterinarian, youll provide comprehensive medical and surgical care for a wide range of species while working alongside an experienced and collaborative team of veterinary professionals. Youll have the opportunity to build and expand exotic pet services in a supportive multispecialty environment.

Species may include:

  • Rabbits
  • Guinea pigs
  • Ferrets
  • Birds
  • Reptiles
  • Hamsters and other small mammals
  • Additional exotic companion species

Youll collaborate closely with our teams in:

  • General Practice
  • Neurology
  • Emergency & Critical Care
  • Oncology
  • Surgery

This integrated approach ensures exceptional continuity of care and outstanding patient outcomes.

Advanced Technology & Multispecialty Support

Our Plymouth Meeting facility is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities to support high-quality exotic animal medicine, including:

  • Digital radiography and advanced imaging
  • 64-slice CT and 1 Tesla MRI on site
  • Endoscopy and advanced anesthesia monitoring
  • In-house laboratory capabilities
  • Seamless EMR integration for efficient case collaboration
  • 24/7 emergency and specialty support

Youll have the tools and specialist support needed to confidently manage complex exotic cases while continuing to grow your clinical interests.

What We Offer

  • Competitive base salary with production incentives
  • Sign-on and relocation bonuses
  • Equity options for long-term career growth
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with employer match and immediate vesting
  • Fully paid short- and long-term disability & liability insurance
  • Generous CE allowance and PTO
  • Reimbursement for licensing, dues, and professional memberships
  • Supportive mentorship and collaboration opportunities

Why Hickory?

Our culture is built on teamwork, clinical excellence, and mutual respect. We believe exceptional patient care starts with a supportive and collaborative environment where veterinarians are empowered to pursue their passions and practice advanced medicine alongside highly skilled colleagues.

At Hickory, your voice matters, your expertise is valued, and your professional growth is encouraged.

Love Where You Live and Work

Plymouth Meeting offers the perfect blend of suburban comfort and convenient access to Philadelphias vibrant cultural, dining, and entertainment scene. Enjoy proximity to Valley Forge, the Jersey Shore, the Pocono Mountains, New York City, and Washington, D.C., along with excellent schools, outdoor recreation, and thriving communities.

Join a Hospital That Values Your Expertise

If youre passionate about exotic companion animal medicine and ready to grow within a collaborative, forward-thinking specialty hospital, Hickory Veterinary and Specialty Hospital is ready to welcome you.

Lets elevate exotic animal caretogether.