Avian and Exotic Animal Care

Since 1996, we have been the Triangle’s only veterinary hospital focused entirely on the care of exotic pets, including birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, exotic mammals, and invertebrates. Our team of experienced veterinarians and staff are dedicated to providing specialized care for non-traditional pets. We work collaboratively in most cases, meaning your pet benefits from the expertise of multiple doctors. This ensures comprehensive treatment for each unique situation, giving your pet the focused care they deserve

Our practice was founded in 1996 by Dr. Daniel H. Johnson and his wife, Sandy, as a mobile house call-only service until 1998. Then Dr. Johnson subleased 500 sq. ft. from a small animal practice until 2001. In 2001, Dr. Johnson moved into a 1400 sq. ft. storefront office off of Lynn Road. In 2002, Dr. Dan hired Dr. Christine Eckermann-Ross, “Dr. E,” who brought with her the power of Western herbal medicine and acupuncture. Since then, Dr. Dan and Dr. E have worked together, complementing each other as Yin and Yang. Dr. Locke started with the practice in 2002 as a veterinary assistant. She stayed for several years before leaving for veterinary school. She returned to doing regularly scheduled relief shifts in 2015 and joined the practice full-time in 2018. In 2020, the practice grew by two more veterinarians, Dr. Alissa Tepedino and Dr. Sara Sokolik. Both brought not only their exotic animal expertise but also their contagious enthusiasm and compassion, all during the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic. In 2021, Dr. Locke purchased the practice from Dr. Dan, who desired to work a little less and spend more quality time with his family. Dr. Dan still works with the practice today, just with less of the stressful responsibilities practice ownership carries. Through the hard work and determination of the team we have continued to grow and hope to be around for many years to come to keep providing your pet with the best care around

Mission — Our mission is to nurture the human-animal bond by providing compassionate, expert care for exotic pets throughout their lives. Through education, research, and advanced medicine, we focus on species often overlooked, ensuring all pets receive the care they deserve