PALM HARBOR, Fla., July 8, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Palm Harbor, Florida pet owners may not realize that their town features an international referral center for exotic birds and other non-traditional animals. Animal & Bird Medical Center of Palm Harbor has developed a reputation as an authority for care of birds, exotic birds in particular. This reputation stems largely from the experience and knowledge of ABVP board certified veterinarian Dr. Joel Murphy. "Birds and exotic pets have their own distinctive health needs," says the avian veterinary practitioner, "and we want to help their owners meet those needs."
The avian veterinarian explains that not every vet has extensive training in this particular area of veterinary medicine. "Bird care is considered an elective course of years of study after completing veterinary school," says Dr. Murphy. "That's why exotic bird owners should put some effort into locating an avian veterinary specialist."
Dr. Murphy advises bird owners to become familiar with the kind of care necessary to keep their pets healthy. He has published many books, the latest, How to Care for Your Pet Bird, Practical Advice, is specifically directed at proper bird care. "The book is meant to provide as much information as possible, so that birds receive the same satisfactory avian veterinary care at home, as in our office."
Dr. Murphy's educational background and training attest to his comprehensive knowledge of exotic bird care and general veterinary medicine. After four years of advanced studies beyond the eight years of veterinary training customary in the field, he became one of the first veterinarians to ever achieve board certification in exotic bird medicine. In addition to three decades of experience in treating traditional pets such as dogs and cats, Dr. Murphy is also skilled in surgical, medical, nutritional and holistic therapy for birds.
Dr. Murphy's drive to help others understand avian veterinary issues extends to the professional sphere as founder of the Murphy Exotic Bird Research Center. The center has been featured on Good Morning America as one of the largest non-profit avian research centers and was active from 1986 to 1996. Research in nutrition, breeding, testing and vaccinations were developed at the center. Dr. Murphy has been doing research in the Amazon rainforest for the last 15 years, studying parrots and their diets in the wild.
"We perform all kinds of bird care services here," notes Dr. Murphy. "We make it a priority to educate bird owners on proper daily care, feeding and environment for these amazing but delicate creatures." The center provides preventative care, routine treatment and emergency care for traditional and non-traditional pets alike. Services are extended to the areas of Dunedin, Tarpon Springs, Oldsmar, Clearwater and Ozona. Many clients come from Sarasota, Naples, Orlando, Brooksville and Jacksonville.
Bird owners seeking more information may visit the website, http://www.dogcatbirdvet.org or can purchase the book at, http://www.petbird.info.