Exotic Vetting
Extraordinary Stories of Treating Amazing Animals
Format:Paperback
Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers
Published:27th Apr '23
Should be back in stock very soon

This engaging account follows a daring veterinarian as he travels the globe, treating endangered wildlife. From high-tech surgeries to unconventional methods, he shares fascinating stories of his unique patients and experiences.
Exotic Vetting offers an engaging glimpse into the extraordinary life of Romain Pizzi, a veterinarian whose work spans the globe. From the lush rainforests of Sierra Leone to the vibrant jungles of Borneo, Pizzi has dedicated his career to the care of some of the world's most endangered wildlife. His experiences include a range of fascinating procedures, such as anaesthetising fish, performing x-rays on frogs, and even hospitalising walruses, showcasing the unique challenges faced by those who work with exotic animals.
Throughout the book, Pizzi shares captivating stories about his diverse patients, highlighting both high-tech advancements and more rudimentary techniques in veterinary medicine. Readers will be intrigued by accounts of cutting-edge procedures, such as the first robotic surgery performed on a tiger and attempts at cloning giant pandas. Conversely, Pizzi also recounts moments that require creativity and resourcefulness, like anaesthetising a bear using a bicycle pump and old plumbing materials or operating on a vulture with a simple metal spoon.
In Exotic Vetting, Romain Pizzi not only provides an entertaining narrative filled with remarkable anecdotes but also sheds light on the critical importance of wildlife conservation. His passion for helping these extraordinary creatures is evident, making this book a compelling read for anyone interested in veterinary medicine, wildlife conservation, or the wonders of the natural world.
‘A highly entertaining and thought-provoking tour de force. Thoroughly recommended.’ Veterinary Record
‘Romain Pizzi, who pioneered keyhole surgery for
animals, is arguably the most versatile and inventive
vet in the world.’ Guardian
‘We have other vets who are incredibly talented, but
Romain is one of a kind.’ Matt Hunt, CEO of Free the Bears
One of the most innovative wildlife surgeons in Europe and perhaps the world … he has operated on giraffes and tarantulas, penguins and baboons, giant tortoises and at least one shark, and maintains a reputation for taking on cases others won't. If you're in possession of a tiger with gallstones, or a suspiciously sickly beaver, you call Pizzi.’ Wired magazine
ISBN: 9780008356781
Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 26mm
Weight: 310g
416 pages