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Behavioural Consultation - Exotic Animals

In collaboration with the Department of Exotic Animals, led by Dr. Tom Hellebuyck, our team is committed to promoting the welfare and behavioural care of exotic species.

By "exotic animals," we refer to birds, ornamental poultry, rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, chinchillas, other small rodents, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates.

To schedule a behavioural consultation for an exotic pet, please contact the secretariat at 09/264 77 00.

The necessary documents, including the questionnaire and instructions for videos, are available on our website. These should be submitted by email to gedragsdiergeneeskunde@ugent.be no later than one week prior to the appointment. Videos can be submitted via www.wetransfer.com. If the documents are not received on time, the appointment will be rescheduled.

The initial consultation lasts approximately 1.5 hours. During the session, we analyse your animal’s behaviour using the completed questionnaire and video materials. Based on this evaluation, we provide a diagnosis, which is discussed with you, and you will receive a written report with tailored advice and a treatment plan.

The cost for a first consultation is €170 (VAT included). Follow-up consultations last 45 minutes and cost €65 (VAT included).
(Special offer: until 31 December 2026, a preferential rate applies for behavioural consultations for special species as part of the launch of this new service. Fees may be reviewed as of 2027.)

To allow for an accurate assessment, we recommend that all individuals who regularly interact with your animal be present at the appointment. This enables us to understand the social and environmental context. Please also bring your animal’s health, along with any available medical records.