Review of Exotics Made Easy: Demystifying Rabbits and Small Mammals by Dr. Madonna Livingstone

As a veterinarian who has primarily focused on small animal practice but often felt hesitant about treating exotic pets, I found Exotics Made Easy: Demystifying Rabbits and Small Mammals by Dr. Madonna Livingstone to be nothing short of transformative. This comprehensive guide is written by a true expert whose wealth of experience shines through on every page, making it an invaluable resource for any vet looking to expand their skills in exotic animal care.

A Masterpiece from a Leading Expert

Dr. Madonna Livingstone is the Clinical Lead Vet and Senior Exotics Veterinary Surgeon at Ark Vets, where she has been a cornerstone of the practice since 2004. Known as the “practice geek,” Madonna graduated from Glasgow University in 2002 and has become a well-respected figure in exotic animal medicine. Her accolades include the prestigious UK Rabbit Vet of the Year Award (2022) by Burgess and the Rabbit Welfare and Association Fund (RWAF) and the External Lecturer of the Year Award (2022 and 2023) by Glasgow Vet School students.

In addition to her clinical work, Madonna is deeply involved in veterinary education and professional organizations. She serves as the Clinical Lead for the Selective Exotics Rotation for final-year vet students at Glasgow Vet School and is an affiliated vet for the university's exotic animal program. She lectures widely across the UK on exotic animal medicine and surgery and has grown the Scottish Congress into the largest veterinary conference in Scotland during her tenure as Chair of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) Scottish Branch.

Her memberships include the Rabbit Welfare and Association Fund, Tortoise Trust, Scottish Ferret Club, British Veterinary Zoological Society, and Veterinary Invertebrate Society, among others. Madonna’s background in exotic animal behavior, surgery, and medicine makes her uniquely qualified to write this book.

Why This Book Stands Out

Dr. Livingstone’s Exotics Made Easy is a thorough yet approachable guide that breaks down the complexities of caring for rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, gerbils, chinchillas, degus, hedgehogs, and ferrets. The book’s structure makes it easy to follow, with chapters dedicated to species-specific anatomy, behavior, and common medical conditions. The practical focus, including detailed diagnostic and treatment protocols, equips veterinarians to confidently incorporate exotic pet care into their practice.

Practical Tools for Success

What sets this book apart is the wealth of actionable information. From drug dosage charts to nutritional recommendations and step-by-step surgical guides, every element is designed with the practicing veterinarian in mind. Dr. Livingstone also provides tips on creating an exotic-friendly practice, improving client communication, and educating pet owners on proper care—all of which are critical for building trust and ensuring optimal outcomes.

Building Confidence in Exotic Medicine

As someone who initially found the idea of treating exotic pets overwhelming, I appreciated how Dr. Livingstone demystifies the process. Her insights, drawn from decades of hands-on experience, make the transition into exotic medicine feel achievable and rewarding. The case studies and clinical examples throughout the book provide practical context, helping readers understand how to apply the knowledge in real-world situations.

Final Thoughts

Exotics Made Easy is more than just a textbook; it’s a roadmap for growing your skills and building an exotic-friendly practice. Whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned veterinarian looking to broaden your expertise, this book is a must-have.

Dr. Madonna Livingstone’s passion for exotic animals and her dedication to educating the next generation of veterinarians is evident in every chapter. Her experience, combined with her approachable writing style, ensures that even the most hesitant practitioners can feel empowered to provide excellent care for exotic pets.

If you’ve ever thought about adding exotic species to your repertoire but weren’t sure where to start, Exotics Made Easywill give you the tools—and the confidence—you need to succeed. Highly recommended!

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