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  • Define exotic animal veterinary medicine.
  • Introduce the basic physiology and behavior traits of avian, reptile, and small mammal patients.
  • Review the most common reasons these species require veterinary care.
  • Introduce the unique pharmacotherapeutics for exotic animals, highlighting compounding considerations for pharmacists.

Margo Karriker, PharmD, FSVHP, DICVP

Dr. Margo Karriker is unique as a pharmacist in serving only veterinary patients. She completed a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) degree at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and a two-year residency in clinical veterinary pharmacy at the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Dr. Karriker is a board-certified veterinary hospital pharmacist and a diplomate of the International College of Veterinary Pharmacy. She has specific research interest in compounding customized medications for veterinary patients, as well as pain management for companion animals. In addition to her position at the UCVMC-SD, she also holds an appointment with the UC San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences as an assistant clinical professor where she works to educate pharmacy students about the needs of the veterinary profession. Dr. Karriker currently serves as a consultant pharmacist for Ethos Veterinary Health. Pursuing an interest in preparing for and assisting animals during times of natural and man-made disasters, Dr. Karriker also serves as team pharmacist for National Veterinary Response Team 3, through an appointment with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.