SW Animal Hospital Introduce
In Oregon, a state known for its unique and diverse population, it is no surprise that many residents share their homes with animals that are not traditional cats and dogs. For owners of exotic pets, finding a veterinarian with the necessary knowledge and expertise can be a major challenge. SW Animal Hospital in Cedar Hills has established itself as the premier solution for this critical need. This veterinary clinic stands out by focusing almost exclusively on exotic pet medicine, offering a level of specialized care that is rare to find. For over two decades, the hospital has been a trusted resource for Oregonians, providing expert and compassionate care for a vast array of species, including bearded dragons, snakes, ferrets, rabbits, chinchillas, and many more. The clinic’s philosophy is built on the understanding that exotic animals have unique physiological and medical needs that require dedicated attention and a deep well of knowledge. This is a practice where the doctors and staff don't just see a handful of exotic pets; they are experts in the field. This specialization ensures that every patient, no matter how unusual, receives the highest standard of care, from routine check-ups to complex medical interventions. For Oregon residents who consider their unique pets to be family, SW Animal Hospital is a beacon of hope and a vital partner in their pet's health and wellness journey. Their commitment to treating each animal with dignity and respect has earned them a reputation for excellence in the local exotic pet community.
The expertise at SW Animal Hospital is personified by Dr. Mark Burgess, a veterinarian who has been focused on exotic pets since he graduated in 1986. He opened the practice in 1995, and it has since become the longest-standing exotic pet-exclusive practice in Oregon. Dr. Burgess is not just a veterinarian; he is a leading authority in his field. His impressive resume includes teaching exotic pet medicine at Oregon State University's Veterinary School, lecturing at national and international conferences, and publishing articles in medical journals and textbooks. He has even been featured in Ferrets Magazine as one of the "Eight Great Ferret Vets" in the United States. His research has led to the discovery of new diseases in exotic animals, providing better understanding and treatment options for many conditions. This extensive knowledge is matched by a compassionate approach to care, as highlighted in customer reviews. A client noted that Dr. Burgess is "professional, informative, attentive to details, friendly, yet realistic" and that he makes you feel "seen and valued." Another pet owner praised the team for being "compassionate, very knowledgeable about reptiles," and for "truly car about the work they do." This combination of unparalleled expertise and genuine empathy is what makes the hospital so highly recommended. For those in the Oregon area who are looking for a vet who is not only a brilliant practitioner but also a kind and caring individual, Dr. Burgess and the team at SW Animal Hospital are an excellent choice.
SW Animal Hospital is located at 2425 SW Cedar Hills Blvd Suite 1A, Cedar Hills, OR 97005, USA. The clinic's central location in the Cedar Hills area makes it a convenient destination for pet owners from across the greater Portland metropolitan area and beyond. As a specialized clinic, many clients travel from a distance to get the expert care they need, and the location is easily accessible from major roadways. The facility is committed to being welcoming to all, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. These features ensure that clients with mobility challenges can visit the clinic comfortably and without worry. The professional and clean environment also includes a restroom for client use, contributing to an overall positive experience. To provide the highest quality of care and ensure each patient receives dedicated time and attention, the hospital operates on an appointments-recommended basis. Given the high demand for their specialized services, it is often recommended to call 3 to 5 days in advance for a non-emergency check-up, as appointments fill up quickly, especially on Saturdays. The clinic works hard to accommodate emergencies while keeping scheduled appointments on time, a testament to their commitment to both patient care and client convenience.
The on-site services provided at this location are crucial for the health of exotic animals, who can be very sensitive to stress and travel. Having a dedicated facility where they can receive everything from a regular exam to a microchip insertion under the supervision of a specialist provides peace of mind for owners. The thoughtful layout and amenities of the clinic contribute to a professional and comfortable experience, making it a reliable and trusted place for pet healthcare. The hospital's focus on onsite services means that all necessary diagnostics and procedures can be performed in one place, streamlining the process for both the animal and its owner. This convenience and efficiency are a major reason why clients, even those who live far away, make the trip to SW Animal Hospital for their pet's care.
SW Animal Hospital offers a comprehensive list of services for a wide variety of exotic animals. Their focus on exotic pet medicine ensures they are equipped to handle the unique needs of species often not seen at traditional veterinary clinics. Their services include:
- Preventive Care and Regular Exams: Offering wellness check-ups, regular exams, and preventive exams to ensure the long-term health of exotic pets.
- Dental Care: Providing dental care for species that require it, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas, to address and prevent dental problems.
- Early Disease Detection: Utilizing tools such as lab tests and microscopic examinations to catch diseases early, allowing for more effective treatment.
- Surgical Procedures: Performing a variety of surgical services, including routine and more complex procedures, with a focus on patient safety and comfort.
- Microchip Identification: Offering microchip insertion for a wide range of exotic pets for identification and safety.
- Species-Specific Care: Providing specialized medical services for a long list of animals including ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, prairie dogs, skunks, sugar gliders, rats, and hedgehogs. They also treat reptiles such as bearded dragons, box turtles, chameleons, iguanas, leopard geckos, snakes, and water dragons.
- Advanced Treatments: Offering services like Deslorelin implants, which are a common treatment for certain ferret diseases.
- Home Delivery: Providing the convenience of home delivery for necessary medications or prescription food.
This extensive list of services, tailored to exotic species, demonstrates the clinic's dedication and expertise. The ability to perform lab tests and microscopic examinations in-house is crucial for providing a fast and accurate diagnosis, which can be a matter of life and death for small and exotic animals. The inclusion of specialized treatments like Deslorelin implants shows they are up-to-date on the latest medical advancements for their patients. The variety of species they treat, from small mammals to reptiles, makes them an invaluable resource for the Oregon exotic pet community. This breadth and depth of service solidify their reputation as the go-to clinic for unique pet healthcare.
SW Animal Hospital is distinguished by several key features and highlights that set it apart from other veterinary clinics in the region:
- Unparalleled Specialization: The clinic is almost exclusively dedicated to exotic pets, with an impressive history as the longest-standing practice of its kind in Oregon.
- Expert Leadership: Led by Dr. Mark Burgess, a nationally recognized authority and author on exotic pet medicine, with over 30 years of experience in the field.
- Comprehensive Care for a Wide Range of Species: They offer expert medical care for an extensive list of animals, from small mammals and pocket pets to a diverse array of reptiles.
- Compassionate and Attentive Staff: The team is consistently praised by clients for their kindness, attentiveness, and commitment to making pets feel comfortable and valued during their visit.
- Commitment to Client Education: Reviewers highlight the doctors' willingness to provide detailed information and answer questions clearly, empowering pet owners to be active participants in their pet's care.
These features underscore the clinic's unique value proposition. They are not simply a clinic that sees exotic animals; they are a center of excellence for exotic pet medicine. Dr. Burgess's reputation and expertise are a major draw for clients, but the compassionate and supportive staff ensures a positive experience for both the animal and the owner. The testimonials from clients who travel from other towns and states to bring their pets to SW Animal Hospital are a powerful endorsement of the quality of care provided. For an Oregonian with a unique pet, these highlights make the choice clear: SW Animal Hospital is a trusted partner for their pet's health and happiness. The combination of advanced knowledge and a caring approach is what makes this clinic truly special.
For more information or to schedule an appointment for your unique pet, you can contact SW Animal Hospital using the following information:
- Address: 2425 SW Cedar Hills Blvd Suite 1A, Cedar Hills, OR 97005, USA
- Phone: (503) 643-2137
As appointments are recommended, especially given the high demand for their specialized services, it is best to call ahead to secure a time for your visit. The team is ready to welcome you and your unique family member to their clinic.
What is worth choosing about SW Animal Hospital is its rare and invaluable specialization in exotic pet medicine. For Oregonians who share their lives with animals like bearded dragons, chinchillas, or ferrets, this clinic is a vital resource. The depth of knowledge and experience of Dr. Burgess and his team is unparalleled in the region. Their reputation is built on a foundation of not just treating illnesses but also providing compassionate, attentive care that makes pets and their owners feel "seen and valued." The customer reviews are a powerful testament to this, with clients expressing immense gratitude for the kindness and expertise they have received. The comprehensive list of services, from preventative exams to advanced surgical procedures, ensures that your pet's needs can be met under one roof by a team of experts. By choosing SW Animal Hospital, you are not simply finding a vet; you are finding a dedicated partner who understands the unique requirements of your exotic pet and is committed to helping them live a full, healthy life. For anyone in Oregon with an exotic pet, this clinic is an outstanding choice and a true asset to the community.
SW Animal Hospital Services
Veterinarian
- Bearded Dragons
- Box Turtles
- Chameleon
- Chinchilla
- Dental Care
- Deslorelin Implants
- Dog & Cat
- Early Disease Detection
- Exotic Pet Medicine
- Ferret
- Guinea Pigs
- Hamster
- Hedgehog
- Home Delivery
- Iguana
- Lab Tests
- Leopard Gecko
- Microchip Inserted
- Microscopic Examination
- Prairie Dog
- Preventive Exams
- Rabbit
- Rats
- Regular Exams
- Skunk
- Snake
- Sugar Glider
- Tortoise
- Water dragon
SW Animal Hospital Details
Service options
- Onsite services
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Amenities
- Restroom
Planning
- Appointments recommended
SW Animal Hospital Photos










SW Animal Hospital Location
SW Animal Hospital
2425 SW Cedar Hills Blvd Suite 1A, Cedar Hills, OR 97005, USA
SW Animal Hospital Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1My little hedgehog son sees Dr. Burgess and we could not be more satisfied with the service and information he provides at each visit. He is professional, informative, attentive to details, friendly, yet realistic. I appreciate that he takes the time to really assess a patient - he doesn’t make you feel like a number. He and his staff make you and your animal family member feel seen and valued.
May 17 · G HThis is the only place I'll take my Bearded Dragon, Spike. They are compassionate, very knowledgeable about reptiles, provide lots of information, and answer questions clearly. They are very caring, trying to keep Spike as calm and comfortable as possible during an exam. Everyone there is friendly and truly cares about the the work they do.
May 09 · Alice Lenox-BurkeWhen I first got my bunny 10 years ago, this vet hospital was recommended so I went for all his checkups and even neutering! I only really took him when he really needed to go so it wasn’t often. Each experience was pleasant and staff on the phone and counter were ALWAYS friendly.In January 2025, I had to take my bunny in because he was showing signs of illness. Unfortunately, after a fast 2 weeks of medicine and hoping, my bunny was so sick that I called SW Animal Hospital and they allowed me to bring him in that day. Because of all his symptoms, I had to make the extremely hard decision to euthanize. Dr. Ramsell and Dr. Cropslei (I’m sorry if I misspelled) both had worked on him during this time and both were there providing information and doing everything they could to help.When the difficult decision came, both approached it with such compassion and care. They were present during the whole process and of course stayed when I had to leave the room. I knew my baby was in good hands. I honestly don’t think I could have held it together as much as I did during without these two and the amazing people there that day.In the aftermath, I received lovely cards that just showed how much these people care and it brought great comfort. I highly recommend coming here and working with either one.
March 13 · Lynn LindellI cannot say enough good things about this clinic! I live in Ridgefield but drive to this location because I truly believe they are the best small animal vet in the area. I originally found them when I was looking for a vet for my sick Guinea pig, who was wheezing. The staff at the clinic was able to get me a drop-off appointment and Dr. Burgess later called me and explained what was wrong with her. He was extremely knowledgeable and provided me with a great deal of information about my Guinea pig, including her diet. That’s actually when I learned that the veggies that I was feeding my pigs were not appropriate for them as they can cause bloat. I had been getting my information on what to feed them from sources online (they’re my first pigs, so I wasn’t as knowledgeable as I should have been) and was grateful for Dr. Burgess for providing this information as the information I found online was misleading.Fast forward to about a year later, to when I adopted another Guinea pig. She had what looked like a growth on her eye. I wasn’t able to get an early enough appointment for her at Southwest Animal Hospital, so I went to see a vet in Vancouver. This vet prescribed antibiotics and sent me on my way. When her eye didn’t begin to heal, I returned to the same vet. They told me that the eye needed to be removed. I was hesitant to do this because I didn’t want her quality of life to be affected, so I called Southwest Animal Hospital to get a second opinion and the incredible staff at the front were able to get me in for an emergency appointment. I was so happy when Dr. Burgess recommended that we do not remove the eye, and instead suture it so that we can actually give it a chance to heal. He explained that while she may not have full visibility in that eye, it’s still better than having the eye removed. I was so happy that he truly considered her quality of life moving forward. He did an amazing job with her eye, and I’m glad that we are trying everything we can so that she can keep it.Then my third Guinea pig got sick. She wasn’t able to move her back legs and I called the clinic in a panic. The front staff were extremely helpful and helped get my sick Guinea pig in for an emergency appointment. I really want to mention Stephanie at the front desk. She is one of the most pleasant people I’ve dealt with in customer service. She is always cheerful on the phone and in person and is also very knowledgeable. You can tell she really likes her job and loves animals too.What I especially appreciate about this clinic is their transparency in communication from both the staff and the doctor. Dr. Burgess walks you through his entire thought process when it comes to treating your pets and arms you with the knowledge you need to feel confident in the treatment plan. You just know you can trust them!I highly recommend this clinic. Thank you Dr. Burgess and staff for keeping my pigs healthy and happy. I am so thankful to have found your clinic.
May 09 · Ioana CozmaThe most recent time I received exceptional service was with choosing this better Veterinary clinic for our lizard, Sesshomaru. The vet experience we had before was traumatic because the previous vet charged us over $400.00 and gave us little information on his wound. His condition got worse after their vague instructions on care, expensive fees and overall negitive aura. When we found this Veterinary clinic, the initial experience was complete. Sesshomarus mouth healed and we were given vet papers with detailed instructions and all the supplies we needed for less than half the price of the other clinic. Thanks to the whole team!
November 30 · Misha Lake
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