Kristin Valdes, DVM
Every pet owner has questions— and that’s a good thing. The more you ask, the better pet owner you’ll be. Our expert staff is always here for you.
Meet the Vet
Now get even more information from our Ask the Vet feature! Meet Kristin Valdes, DVM, of Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital. She’s got the answers you need to keep your pet happy and healthy.
IMPORTANT — If you have immediate health concerns about your pet, contact your veterinarian or local emergency animal hospital. The Animal Store Blog posts occasional questions to and answers from one of our favorite vets. This column is for informational purposes only, and should not be considered a substitute for regular veterinary care for your pet.
Richardson Ground Squirrel Agression
by Stephanie Moy, DMV Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital You asked: My male Pet Richardson Ground Squirrel just turned one. For about the past month he sleeps quite a bit more than he was and he has turned a bit angry and wants to really bite. He's eating very well and drinking water and no trouble going potty? Is this rut? Or is the some type of hibernation [...]
Bird Enrichment
Here at The Animal Store, we love birds. If you love birds, then you'll love this video by veterinarian Dr. Laurie Hess. She explains how you can provide bird enrichment by encouraging natural foraging [...]
Ask the Vet: Can rabbits be litter trained?
by Dr. Kristin Valdez Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital You asked: Can rabbits be litter trained? Answer Yes! Rabbits can be litter trained. You need a little [...]
Ask the Vet about Heating Reptile Tanks
by Dr. Kristin Valdez Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital More on Reptiles Heating reptile tanks can be confusing. You need to know exactly what your pet requires. Does it need [...]
Ask the Vet about Small Animal Enrichment
by Dr. Kristin Valdez Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital In addition to spending time with your pet and socializing him or her, did you know that small animal enrichment is vital to your pet’s well-being [...]
Ask the Vet about Bird Enrichment
by Dr. Kristin Valdez Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital More on birds Just imagine if you were left in your room all day, every day. You would probably get very [...]
Heartworm Awareness Month
by Dr. Kristin Claricoates Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital April is National Heartworm Awareness Month. Here's what you need to know. What animals need to be concerned about heartworm? At this time, heartworm [...]
