Centre for Avian, Reptiles and Exotics

15/08/2025

Dr Coetzee de Beer BVSc (Hons) MANZCVS (Avian Health)

Dr Coetzee de Beer graduated with honours from the University of Queensland and began his career at The Unusual Pet Vets, a busy avian- and exotic-only clinic in Perth, Australia. He went on to complete the rigorous examinations to become a Member of the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (MANZCVS) in Avian Health, earning registration as an avian veterinarian. Over the course of his career, he has been trained and mentored by some of the world’s leading experts in avian and exotic animal medicine, shaping both his advanced clinical skills and his patient-focused philosophy.

Dedicated to providing exceptional care for every patient—whether bird, reptile, rabbit, ferret, guinea pig, rat, or mouse—Dr de Beer combines cutting-edge veterinary science with a gentle, compassionate approach. His hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including advanced endoscopy, electrocautery, a high-quality digital X-ray system, ultrasound, and specialised dental equipment, allowing for precise diagnosis, minimally invasive procedures, and the best possible outcomes.

The hospital’s size and location create a calm, quiet environment that reduces stress for patients, making visits less intimidating for even the most sensitive animals. Dr de Beer is committed to being there when his patients need him most—he works every weekend and offers after-hours care, ensuring help is available in emergencies.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr de Beer has been invited to speak at major international conferences, including the most recent World Veterinary Congress in Cape Town and a specialist avian conference in Auckland, New Zealand, where he shared insights on improving welfare and outcomes for exotic species. His mission is simple: to help every animal live a longer, healthier, and happier life.

14/08/2025

Do Rabbits Need Routine Dentals?

When you think about dental care for pets, you might picture dogs having their teeth scaled or cats needing a cleaning under anaesthetic. But what about rabbits? Do they need “routine” dental procedures too?

The short answer: Not if their teeth are healthy, aligned, and well-worn from the right diet — but dental checks are still essential.

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Why Rabbit Teeth Are Special

A rabbit’s teeth never stop growing. In fact, they grow around 2–3 mm per week! This design works perfectly in the wild, where constant chewing on fibrous grasses keeps teeth worn down. In pet rabbits, however, problems can develop if their teeth don’t line up correctly or if their diet isn’t doing the grinding work nature intended.

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When Rabbits Usually Don’t Need Dentals
• Good jaw alignment – Upper and lower teeth meet correctly, so they wear evenly.
• High-fibre diet – Around 80–90% hay or fresh grass encourages natural wear.
• Healthy mouth – No drooling, weight loss, eye discharge, or swelling.

With the right genetics and diet, many rabbits will go their whole lives without ever needing a dental procedure.

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When Dentals Become Routine

Unfortunately, dental disease is one of the most common health issues we see in rabbits. Some bunnies need their teeth trimmed or burred regularly if they have:
• Malocclusion – Misaligned teeth from genetics, injury, or jaw shape.
• Spurs – Sharp enamel edges that cut into cheeks or tongue.
• Overgrown teeth – Which can trap the tongue or cause painful abscesses.
• Previous dental disease – Once changes set in, ongoing maintenance is often necessary every 4–12 weeks.

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How Rabbit Dental Care Differs from Dogs and Cats
• Rabbits don’t build up tartar in the same way carnivores do, so “preventative scaling” isn’t needed.
• “Routine” in rabbits means routine mouth checks, not automatic dental cleanings.
• Most problems are structural or diet-related, so prevention starts at home.

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Bottom Line

Rabbits don’t all need regular dental procedures — but they do need regular dental check-ups. Early detection of overgrowth, spurs, or misalignment can save your rabbit from pain and serious complications.

If you notice your rabbit eating slowly, dropping food, drooling, or showing any facial swelling, book a veterinary visit right away. A healthy mouth means a happy, hungry bunny!

13/08/2025

Outside time for this lady. One of the perks of having lots of space.

11/08/2025

Dear CARE Family,

We’ve made an exciting change to better serve our community — we’ve removed our lunch break from the schedule, giving us an extra hour each day to see patients and keep up with our growing client base.

As the only dedicated avian and exotic practice open every weekend, and the only one offering after-hours care, we are committed to being there when you need us most.

To help us provide the best and fastest care — especially during after-hours emergencies — we recommend that clients who are not already part of the CARE family keep a personal file of their pet’s medical history, including blood test results and X-rays. This ensures we can quickly reach an accurate diagnosis and start treatment without delay.

Thank you for trusting us with your beloved companions.

Warm regards,
The CARE Team

08/08/2025

How has been 6 years??

Dr Coetzee accepting his award 🥂👏🏻

23/07/2025

While doing a midnight check-up, Dr. Coetzee suddenly realised — CARE is turning 7! 🎉

In just a few days, we’ll be celebrating seven wonderful years as CARE. But our story actually began much earlier. We’ve been operating since 2001, originally known as Klapmuts Bird Clinic — founded and run by Dr. Deon de Beer, father of Dr. Coetzee de Beer.

What began as a dedicated bird practice has since grown into a fully equipped avian and exotic animal clinic, with state-of-the-art technology that’s unmatched in the field.

We are incredibly proud of our passionate team and want to take this moment to celebrate all the animals we’ve had the privilege to help over the years. Here’s to the next chapter — because in the end, quality always prevails.

10/07/2025

Glad Bugsy is safely 🏠

23/05/2025

Dear Rabbit Owners,

Please note that all our RHDV2 vaccines have been allocated to patients. We will notify you when we have stock again.

07/05/2025

RABBIT OWNERS

WE HAVE STILL HAVE RHDV VACCINES AVAILABLE.

VERY LIMITED AMOUNT

CALL 0218755063

06/05/2025

🦜 Exciting News + Job Opportunity! 🐍

We’re thrilled to announce that one of our fantastic veterinary nurses is expecting a baby! 👶💐 As we prepare to support her during her maternity leave, we’re looking for maternity cover—with the potential to become a full-time position for the right person.

We work exclusively with avian, reptiles, and exotic animals, so if you’re a qualified veterinary nurse or animal health technician with experience or a strong interest in these species, we’d love to hear from you!

📍 Klapmuts
📅 Start Date: Part time training can start as soon as possible.
📩 To apply or find out more, email us at [email protected]

Please share with anyone who might be the perfect fit! 🐢🦎🦜

25/04/2025

Can you guess who this is?

11/04/2025

Hi CARE Family,

Sorry we have been so quiet on Facebook, it’s been really busy at the practice.

Please note that we will be closed for the Easter Weekend.

Stay safe and take CARE ❤️