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Birds of prey

Galluvet, specialist in birds of prey

Birds of prey and people share a long, common history. Birds of prey were, and still are, used in falconry – the art of hunting with trained birds of prey – a sport that was first developed in the Middle East and became enormously popular in Europe during the Middle Ages.

Falconers and those who keep birds of prey as a hobby can call on Galluvet for expert advice, specialised expertise and know-how. We have extensive practical experience and proficiency with birds of prey.

General examination

Due to their physical power and their often-stressful reaction to any kind of intervention, it is virtually impossible to perform physical examinations of birds of prey. Therefore, with the exception of a case history, observation and parasitological testing (faecal tests), the best method for examining and treating birds of prey involves the use of anaesthetics. Using this method, we can quickly and efficiently intervene, and traditional problems, such as Bumblefoot, can be (surgically) treated.

Our radiology lab is also equipped with a gas anaesthesia machine so we can take X-ray images quickly and calmly. An x-ray may be important for the diagnosis of skeletal abnormalities, egg binding, foreign objects, respiratory infections or to diagnose space-occupying processes in the body cavity.

Specialised examination

For more in-depth examinations, we utilize blood testing, endoscopy and ultrasound.

Treatments for aspergillosis – a commonly occurring respiratory disease in birds of prey – can be supplemented with nebulisation in one of our aerosol cages specially designed for this specific treatment.

House calls

For individual birds of prey, we prefer consultations in our practice, since we have all the equipment needed for accurate diagnoses and treatment here. For larger collections and breeding birds, we can make house calls, if you wish.

Transport to the practice

Birds of prey are often brought to the practice in carriers, or they are presented on the glove or on a perch/block – with or without a hood.

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