Welcome to PETAHEAD POP-UP CLINIC
PETAHEAD Pop-up clinic, is a specialized pop-up veterinary service designed exclusively for ZooMed pets (exotic animals). We’re here to provide top-tier care for your feathered, scaly, or furry companions in a way that fits your lifestyle and theirs.
At PETAHEAD, your pet will be seen by Dr. Laila Proença (MV, DVM, MS, PhD, DACZM), a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine (exotic animal medicine)—one of the few in the world with this level of expertise.
Unlike general practitioners with experience in ‘exotics,’ Dr. Proença has undergone years of rigorous advanced training, research, and clinical work dedicated solely to zoological species.
This means your pet will receive truly specialized care backed by cutting-edge knowledge and exclusive access to one of the most recognized experts in the field.
While our pricing reflects this unparalleled level of expertise, it also ensures the most accurate diagnostics and treatments, minimizing unnecessary tests and maximizing your pet’s health and well-being. When it comes to unique pets, specialized care isn’t just a luxury—it’s the best investment in their future.
CURRENTLY SEEING PATIENTS AT VISTA, CA
747-888-8658
760B Sycamore Avenue Vista, CA 92083
clinic@petahead.pet
ZooMed Specialist Consult $235
ZooMed Specialist Re-check $120
ALREADY A CLIENT?
Download the Digitail app to have access to your pet’s records at all times, and visit the PETAHEAD pharmacy website to manage your pet’s prescriptions.
WHAT’S A POP-UP CLINIC?
We’re not a traditional veterinary clinic—we operate on a limited schedule. This means we’re not open every day, and while our doors are closed, we’re not available by phone, email, or messages. But don’t worry—our schedule is clearly posted so you can easily plan your visit, and we have partner practices to assist you on an urgency and emergency situation.
WHAT WE DO
We offer a hybrid model of care that’s as unique as your ZooMed pets (exotic animals):
In-Person Appointments: Hands-on expertise for diagnostics, treatments, and wellness care.
Telemedicine Services: Available for established patients, because we know sometimes it’s better (and less stressful) to handle things virtually.
When we’re not open, your emergencies and urgent needs are fully supported by our partner, VEG (Veterinary Emergency Group) in Encinitas ((760) 377-6611), whose team has been trained by us to ensure your ZooMed pets (exotic animals) receive expert care. VEG is not a primary care provider—they’re strictly here for emergencies and urgencies.
MEET THE SPECIALIST
Hi, I’m Dr. Laila Proença, a board-certified specialist in Zoological Medicine (ACZM) and the only ACZM diplomate in San Diego! I have over 20 years of experience caring for ZooMed pets (exotic animals), including birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and small mammals.
As an ACZM specialist, I’m part of an elite group of only approximately 350 specialists worldwide. Achieving this certification involves publishing research, completing an intensive residency or equivalent training, and passing one of the most rigorous exams in veterinary medicine. This makes me uniquely qualified to provide exceptional care for all exotic species.
In addition to my clinical expertise, I am an international speaker, regularly presenting at some of the world’s leading veterinary conferences, and I have trained countless veterinarians and technicians in the specialized field of ZooMed (exotic animal medicine). I am also the founder of VETAHEAD, an educational platform that empowers veterinary professionals through advanced training in ZooMed. This means that when you come to PETAHEAD, you’re not just bringing your pet to a specialist—you’re coming directly to the source, someone who teaches and trains the professionals in this highly-specialized field.
I completed my residency in Zoological Medicine at the University of Georgia, hold a PhD in Veterinary Medicine, and a Master’s in Animal Biology. Additionally, I specialize in advanced procedures like rigid endoscopy and surgeries that only specialists like me are trained to perform. When your pet needs expert care, you can trust they’re in the best hands.
WHAT IS ZOOMED?
We operate inside existing veterinary hospitals, but let’s be clear: PETAHEAD Pop-up clinic is a completely separate practice. While we’re guests in their space, we handle our own appointments, records, and payments. Please contact us directly for all inquiries during our open hours—let’s keep things smooth for everyone!
WHAT IS ZOOMED?
ZooMed, short for zoological medicine, is a veterinary specialty focused on the health and care of exotic animals like birds, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. These unique pets often require specialized knowledge and treatment plans to ensure they thrive. As a ZooMed specialist, I bring advanced expertise and years of experience to help your pet live their best life.
SPECIES WE SEE
While we love dogs and cats, PETAHEAD POP-UP CLINIC is dedicated solely to the care of ZooMed pets (exotic animals). The species we see include:
Birds: Parrots, finches, chickens, canaries, toucans, and more.
Reptiles: Snakes, lizards, turtles, and tortoises.
Mammals: Rabbits, chinchillas, guinea pigs, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, rats, mice, hamsters, and more.
Amphibians: Frogs, salamanders, and others.
Fish: Freshwater and saltwater species.
And more! Reach out during our open hours for additional details about our services.
SERVICES WE PROVIDE
We tailor every service to the unique needs of ZooMed pets (exotic animals), offering:
Primary and Specialty Care: Focused on the health and wellness of exotic pets.
Referral cases: for when you primary veterinarian needs a little help with specialized and complex cases.
Advanced Imaging: Digital radiography, CT, and ultrasound.
Surgery: Including rigid endoscopy and soft tissue procedures.
Urgent and Emergency Care: For when things happen when it is not expected.
Comprehensive Dental Care: Rabbit and rodent dental extractions, odontogenic abscess treatment, and occlusal adjustments.
Elective Spays and Neuters: For rabbits, rodents, tortoises, turtles, lizars, snakes, mini pigs, and more.
Reproductive Management of Female Birds: Specialized prevention for egg-laying challenges.
And More: Reach out during our open hours for additional details about our services.
TRANSPARENT PRICING
We take the guesswork out of pricing. You’ll always receive a clear price estimate before we move forward with care in the clinic.
See prices for our top services below.
Please note:
At PETAHEAD, your pet will be seen by Dr. Laila Proença (MV, DVM, MS, PhD, DACZM), a world-renowned board-certified specialist in zoological medicine—one of the few with this level of expertise. Unlike general practitioners with experience in ‘exotics,’ Dr. Proença provides truly specialized care, ensuring precise diagnostics and the best treatment options. While pricing reflects this exclusivity, it guarantees top-tier medical care, giving your pet the best chance at a healthy future.
*Includes stomatoscopy (use of surgical camera). No extractions (does not include anesthesia or imaging – both required).
*Starting price, additional fee per tooth applies. Does not include anesthesia or imaging – both required.
*Surgical procedure only, does not include anesthesia, room setup, hospitalization, or medications.
*Surgical procedure only, does not include anesthesia, room setup, hospitalization, or medications.
*Includes stomatoscopy (use of surgical camera). No extractions (does not include anesthesia or imaging – both required).
*Starting price, additional fee per tooth applies. Does not include anesthesia or imaging – both required.
*Surgical procedure only, does not include anesthesia, room setup, hospitalization, or medications.
*Surgical procedure only, does not include anesthesia, room setup, hospitalization, or medications.
*Includes stomatoscopy (use of surgical camera). No extractions (does not include anesthesia or imaging – both required).
*Starting price, additional fee per tooth applies. Does not include anesthesia or imaging – both required.
*Surgical procedure only, does not include anesthesia, room setup, hospitalization, or medications.
*Surgical procedure only, does not include anesthesia, room setup, hospitalization, or medications.
WHY CHOOSE PETAHEAD POP-UP CLINIC?
- Care from a true specialist who not only provides exceptional care but also trains veterinarians and speaks on ZooMed topics worldwide.
- Flexible scheduling to meet your needs.
- The convenience of telemedicine for follow-ups and ongoing care.
- Peace of mind knowing your pet’s emergencies are covered by VEG-trained professionals.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Check out our schedule to see when we’ll pop up next!
Book your appointment directly through our online platform.
PETAHEAD POP-UP CLINIC is here to take the stress out of caring for ZooMed pets (exotic animals).
Whether it’s a routine check-up or a more complex issue, we’re dedicated to giving your beloved pet the exceptional care they deserve.
A MESSAGE FROM PETAHEAD POP-UP CLINIC
At Petahead, we believe that kindness, respect, and trust are the foundations of a successful partnership between veterinarians, pet owners, and their beloved ZooMed pets (exotic animals). Our team is here to provide expert care and unwavering support for your pet’s unique needs, and we approach every case with compassion and professionalism. In return, we ask that this kindness and respect be mutual.
We are deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for everyone.
As such, we do not tolerate any form of disrespect, including homophobia, sexism, racism, or discriminatory behavior of any kind.
Veterinary care is a partnership rooted in trust and understanding. While emotions can run high when it comes to your pet’s health, please remember that we are here to help and always have your pet’s best interest at heart.
Kindness goes a long way in building the trust needed to navigate challenges together.
We are honored to care for your pets and look forward to working with you in an environment where kindness and respect guide every interaction. Together, we can ensure your ZooMed pets receive the exceptional care they deserve.
Thank you for being part of our community!
WANT TO WORK WITH US?
If you are a veterinary professional (veterinarian or RVT) interested in working with us, here is how you can apply:
Apply here
We currently use the Roo platform to hire professionals.
Click on the link above, sign in or create your account (free) and search for “PETAHEAD”.
You will be able to see all or available shifts (for techs and/or vets) and you can apply right there! Easy!
If no shifts are available at the time of your search, keep monitoring weekly, as we post new shifts often.
Thank you for your interest!
We can’t wait to get to know you!
EXTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
