2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic: Compassionate Care in Philadelphia, PA

2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic Introduce

Welcome, pet parents of Philadelphia and beyond! When it comes to the health and well-being of our cherished animal companions, finding a veterinary practice that combines advanced medical care with genuine compassion is truly invaluable. In the vibrant Northern Liberties neighborhood of Philadelphia, 2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic stands as a beacon of excellence, providing state-of-the-art veterinary services for not only dogs and cats but also a remarkable array of exotic pets. This article is your comprehensive guide to understanding why this hospital is so highly regarded by locals, celebrating their expertise, empathy, and unwavering dedication to every patient.

2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic isn't just a clinic; it's a place where the human-pet bond is deeply respected and nurtured. As highlighted by heartfelt customer testimonials, their team goes above and beyond to ensure both pets and their owners feel supported, especially during the most challenging times. Their commitment to providing a Fear Free Certified environment means they prioritize your pet's comfort and emotional well-being during every visit, making stressful vet visits a thing of the past. For Philadelphia locals, knowing that such a professional yet profoundly humane level of care is available right in their community offers immense peace of mind.

This overview will delve into the convenient location of 2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic, its accessibility for residents throughout Philadelphia and surrounding areas, the extensive range of medical, surgical, and specialized exotic pet services they offer, the unique features that set them apart, and all essential contact information. Our goal is to provide a clear, engaging, and informative picture, empowering you to make the best healthcare decisions for your beloved pets, knowing they will receive top-tier treatment from a team that genuinely cares.

Location and Accessibility

2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic is ideally located at 966 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA. This prime address places the hospital in the thriving Northern Liberties neighborhood of Philadelphia, an area well-known for its vibrant community, eateries, boutiques, and a strong sense of local pride. This central location makes it highly accessible for pet owners throughout Philadelphia and even from neighboring communities in Pennsylvania.

Accessibility is a significant advantage for locals. The hospital boasts an "Excellent Transit" score of 70/100, indicating superb public transportation options. Various SEPTA bus routes frequently run along 2nd Street and surrounding avenues, providing direct connections to major subway lines and other parts of the city. For instance, bus routes connecting to Center City, Fishtown, and other areas would likely pass within a short walking distance. The "Walker's Paradise" score of 93/100 further emphasizes that the area is very pedestrian-friendly, making it convenient for pet owners to walk their animals to appointments, especially those residing in Northern Liberties, Fishtown, or other nearby walkable neighborhoods.

While street parking in urban areas can sometimes be competitive, the neighborhood's mix of residential and commercial properties may offer more opportunities than very dense downtown areas. The easily identifiable location on N 2nd Street ensures that clients can find the clinic without difficulty, whether they are arriving for a routine check-up or in an emergency. The strategic positioning of 2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic underscores its commitment to serving a wide segment of the Philadelphia pet-owning community with ease and efficiency.

Services Offered

Full-Service Medical Care: 2nd Street Animal Hospital provides comprehensive medical services for dogs, cats, and exotic pets. This includes routine wellness examinations, preventative health programs, disease diagnostics, and treatment for various ailments.
Exotic Pet Care: This is a significant specialization of the hospital, with over 25 years of experience treating a wide range of exotic animals. They are recognized as a leading exotic pet hospital in the Philadelphia region. They cater to unique medical needs for species such as:
- Birds (including avian wellness, beak/nail/wing trims, and specific disease testing)
- Reptiles (including snakes, lizards like bearded dragons and geckos, turtles)
- Small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, rats, mice, hamsters, chinchillas, sugar gliders, hedgehogs)
- Amphibians and Invertebrates
Services for exotics include routine wellness exams, vaccinations (including RHDV for bunnies), bloodwork, imaging (digital radiographs, ultrasound, CT), husbandry and nutritional counseling, small mammal dentistry, surgery & endoscopy, laser therapy, medical grooming, and urgent/critical care.
Pet Surgery: The hospital offers both soft tissue and orthopedic surgical procedures for companion animals, ensuring a safe and comfortable surgical environment. This includes everything from routine spays and neuters to more complex operations like lump removals.
Pet Dental Care: Comprehensive dental services are available to address oral health issues such as dental disease, abscesses, irregular tooth growth (especially crucial for rodents and rabbits), and enamel problems, all aimed at extending a pet's life and improving their comfort.
In-House Laboratory: For rapid and accurate diagnoses, they utilize an in-house laboratory. This allows for quick analysis of blood samples (even very small ones for exotic pets) and other tests, speeding up the diagnostic process. They also partner with specialized exotic pet laboratories for more complex analyses.
Laser Therapy: Offering therapeutic laser treatments, which can be beneficial for pain management, reducing inflammation, and accelerating healing in various conditions.
Imaging Services: State-of-the-art digital radiography (X-rays) and ultrasound are available for detailed internal imaging, providing non-invasive ways to visualize organs and diagnose conditions. They can immediately email radiographs to veterinary radiology specialists if needed.
Husbandry and Nutritional Counseling: Beyond treating illness, they emphasize educating pet owners on proper care, diet, and environment for their specific pet species, particularly important for exotic animals.
Urgent & Critical Care: The hospital is equipped to provide urgent and critical care, as evidenced by the testimonial of saving a critically ill exotic pet on a weekend.

Features / Highlights

Exceptional Compassion and Empathy: As vividly described in customer testimonials, the hospital team demonstrates extraordinary compassion, dignity, and grace, particularly during sensitive moments like end-of-life care. They prioritize emotional support for both pets and owners, allowing ample time for goodbyes and ensuring peaceful transitions.
Leading Exotic Pet Expertise: With over 25 years of experience, 2nd Street Animal Hospital is renowned as the #1 Exotic Pet Veterinarian Hospital in the Philly region. Their ability to treat a wide array of unique species, even in urgent situations on weekends, is a significant highlight that makes them a go-to for specialized care.
Fear Free Certified Environment: The hospital is Fear Free Certified, meaning they actively work to minimize fear, anxiety, and stress for pets during their visits. This creates a more positive and comfortable experience for animals, benefiting their overall health outcomes.
State-of-the-Art Medical Facility: They boast a modern facility equipped with advanced diagnostic tools (digital radiography, ultrasound, CT, in-house lab) and treatment capabilities, ensuring pets receive high-quality medical and surgical care. They have specialized equipment for exotic pets like temperature-controlled incubators and ventilators.
Professionalism and Humanity: Reviewers consistently praise the team's professionalism combined with their deep humanity. They are not just skilled medical practitioners but also caring individuals who treat pets as family members.
Highly Experienced Team (Dr. Michael Weiss): The hospital operates under the direction of Dr. Michael Weiss, a graduate of the University of Missouri's College of Veterinary Medicine with extensive experience in emergency medicine, surgery, ultrasound, endoscopy, and over 20 years in exotic pet medicine and surgery. His affiliation with the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital's Exotic Companion Animal Emergency Services staff further underscores their expertise.
Comprehensive Care for All Pets: While renowned for exotics, they provide equally high-standard medical, surgical, and dental care for traditional pets like dogs and cats, making them a versatile option for diverse pet-owning households.

Contact Information

For appointments, emergency inquiries, or to learn more about the specialized services offered at 2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic, please use the following contact information:

Address: 966 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA

Phone: (215) 516-7000

Mobile Phone: +1 215-516-7000

Their business hours are Monday-Thursday: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm, Friday: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm, and Saturday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. They are closed on Sundays. It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially for urgent or exotic pet needs, to ensure the team can prepare for your arrival and provide the best possible care.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For pet owners throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding Pennsylvania region, 2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended veterinary care provider. Its strategic location at 966 N 2nd St in the easily accessible Northern Liberties neighborhood is a major asset. With excellent public transit scores and pedestrian-friendly streets, it offers convenience for city dwellers, ensuring that top-tier veterinary care is within reach, even in urgent situations.

What truly sets this hospital apart and makes it ideal for locals is its remarkable blend of comprehensive, state-of-the-art medical services and profound compassion. As evidenced by the deeply moving testimonials, the team at 2nd Street Animal Hospital doesn't just treat illnesses; they provide a humane, empathetic, and respectful experience for both pets and their devoted owners, particularly during life's most difficult moments. This level of personalized, caring attention resonates deeply with pet parents who view their animals as integral family members.

Furthermore, their highly specialized expertise in exotic pet medicine is an invaluable resource for the diverse pet population of Philadelphia. Knowing that there's a local facility with over 25 years of experience, equipped with advanced diagnostics and surgical capabilities for everything from bearded dragons to sugar gliders, provides unparalleled peace of mind for owners of less common companions. This specialization, combined with their Fear Free Certified approach and full-service offerings for dogs and cats, ensures that nearly any pet can receive exceptional care under one roof.

In essence, 2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic is more than just a veterinary practice; it's a pillar of the community dedicated to fostering the human-pet bond through expert, compassionate, and accessible healthcare. For any Philadelphia local seeking a veterinary team that combines professional excellence with heartfelt humanity, this hospital is undoubtedly the premier choice, promising peace of mind and the best possible outcomes for their beloved animals.

2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic Photos

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2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic Location

2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic

Pennsylvania Philadelphia County Philadelphia North Philadelphia North 2nd Street

966 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, USA

2nd Street Animal Hospital & Exotic Clinic Reviews

There are no words big enough to hold the amount of gratitude I have for the team at 2nd Street Animal Hospital, but I’ll try my best.Last week, I had to do one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life: say goodbye to my beloved dog, Trixie. She wasn’t just a pet. She was my shadow, my emotional anchor, my sunshine through years of personal storms. For more than a decade, she stood by me as I navigated the toughest parts of life, always offering comfort without needing to speak a word.In her final days, Trixie was struggling. She was confused, losing weight, and clearly in pain. As much as I wanted to hold on forever, I knew she deserved peace. Still, making that decision was terrifying. But everything changed when I walked into 2nd Street Animal Hospital.From the moment we arrived, the staff showed us nothing but compassion, dignity, and grace. They did not rush us. They did not treat this like just another procedure. They allowed us time real, and meaningful time to sit with her, talk to her, hold her, and simply be with her as she transitioned beyond this realm.When the moment came, I held her face in my hands, smiled through the tears, and sang “You Are My Sunshine” to her. I wanted her to hear love as she slipped away. I wanted her to feel safe and to know she was surrounded by warmth and care. Because of the patience and empathy from the team at 2nd Street Animal Hospital, I was able to give her that parting gift. They gave us space to grieve without pressure, to love without interruption, and to say goodbye in the gentlest way possible.Trixie left this world peacefully. And I will never forget the kindness that made that possible.Thank you, 2nd Street, for your empathy, your professionalism, and your humanity. You helped me honor someone who gave me everything. That means more than you will ever know
May 13, 2025 · Marc Thomas
2 years ago 2nd St AH saved this little girl's life. She had a prolapse while laying eggs [on a Saturday morning], and not many vets see exotics and even less do it on weekends. After a quick internet search and a call down there, we drove an hour to 2nd St. and they fixed her up! The liklihood of it happening again was real, but she's had 3 clutches of eggs since (although we don't breed her or keep any) this little friendly girl continues to do great! Thank you to the entire team at 2ndSt Animal Hospital - she's here today because of you guys!Highly recommend, and much love!
Jan 23, 2025 · Steve Altieri
Dr. Bender is amazing! She has been my go to for my various class pets, both of the guinea pig and rabbit variety. She’s given great advice, care, and info for my babies! She even came and spoke to my ESL students, bringing animals with her to meet them! She works with avians (she loves birds) and exotics,meaning she’s the one for all your furry pocket pets, reptiles, and birds! Thanks for your care and love for my animals! I appreciate her care, and if I get a new exotic pet, I know who to seek out!
Jul 12, 2024 · Megan Sherrell
I've been bringing my bearded dragon here for a while now & I love it here! Their exotics vet is very kind & skilled, & the whole staff crew is incredibly kind & helpful. They treat all patients with so much care, & they always go above & beyond. I only trust this facility with my dragon! I feel as though she's truly cared for here.
May 07, 2025 · Damaris Jimenez
I only am giving one star because I want people to see this! Please Do Not get care for your pet here! Everyone should be recording every interaction they have with this clinic. My pet died going here. We requested for my dog to have scans after having a cough. We pressured for a scan to be done of our dogs throat and chest and was turned down. They insisted they were trying to save us money,however we were insisted a scan, and said money is not an issue for us after all we have CareCredit. She denied the scan, prescribed us medications, and said come back in a month! Over the next two weeks he struggled with the medication feeling more sedated then anything. He proceeded to vomit and began to breathe unusually. We rushed him to the ER, he had scan after scan and it turned out to be a severe case of pneumonia. $2000 later, We left the ER with most medications except for the antibiotic, he was supposed to pick up from his primary vet. He would have to take an antibiotic that would be strong and last for 7 days. I went back giving them a second chance to 2nd street and they gave me and antibiotic for 21 days, not 7. They said the reason behind this is that they didn't have the specific 7day antibiotic stocked in their pharmacy however they have an antibiotic for 21 days and that my dog should be okay with the 21day antibiotic.I voiced my concerns but was dismissed.A week passed and my dog was suffering to breathe. I rushed him back to the ER were he would later pass away. Another $2000 and my pet was dead. I called, left messages that we were at the ER and got no response until the next day, when I voiced all my concerns and asked for some accountability and to possibly get reimbursed for their mistakes. They didn't even acknowledge any of it. The ER doctor even asked "why for such a sickly dog would you not have done atleast 1 scan, and giving the sickly dog with severe pneumonia a 21day antibiotic verses a 7day antibiotic?" They responded with we like to tapper our dogs down from the antibiotic. The ER vet was stunned because they knew that wasn't true for a dog suffering severely. She then goes on to say I refused scans to be done at the beginning and it's the vets word verses our word(pet owner). In such if you don't have recorded proof during your first visit, there's basically nothing they can do. Well, I have my visit recording and phone recordings thus proving thier negligence. My recommendation is to stay away from these clinics that just treat you and your pet as a number. Stay away from here but if you must backup and record everything appointments and phone conversations, because they are only looking out for themselves not in the interest of your pet!
Jun 26, 2025 · Cherri-Christina Sierra