At Dierenkliniek Zoo Bijzonder in Utrecht, every animal is welcome. We provide accessible, expert veterinary care for dogs, cats, and exotic species, with dedicated attention to both the animal and the owner.
For many people, dogs and cats are an integral part of the family. At the same time, other species are increasingly being seen as full family members. That is why we commit ourselves daily to providing high-quality primary care, preventive care, diagnostics, and treatment, with a warm and personal approach.
Within veterinary medicine, the term exotic animals refers to all pets other than dogs and cats. It is precisely with these animals that our expertise and passion lie. We treat birds, rabbits, rodents, reptiles, and even zoo animals. Thanks to our specialist knowledge, we can offer expert care to these species, even when such care is less readily available elsewhere.
This combination makes our clinic unique: while exotic animals are an exception for many veterinarians, for us, they are a natural part of daily practice.
Our mission is to demonstrate that high-quality veterinary care is possible for all species. With commitment, expertise, and passion, we ensure that every animal—large or small, common or exotic—receives the care it deserves.
The ZOO BIJZONDER team
At Dierenkliniek Zoo Bijzonder, everything revolves around expert, compassionate care for (almost) all animals—from dogs and cats to birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles. Meet our team: dedicated professionals with a great heart for animals.
Rick
Veterinarian
Rick graduated from Ghent University in 2012 as a companion animal veterinarian. Since the beginning of his career, he has treated many exotic animals such as birds, rabbits, rodents, and reptiles, in addition to dogs and cats. His fascination with these animals—and birds in particular—dates back to his childhood and is reflected daily in his clinical work and his collaboration with various zoos in the Netherlands.
His special interests include birds, dental problems in rabbits and rodents, and orthopedic issues. Where some veterinarians might prefer to refer these cases, Rick never shies away from a challenge. His approach is calm, meticulous, and highly detailed—always putting the welfare of the animal first.
Guided by the motto “never too old to learn,” Rick continues to develop his skills. He regularly travels abroad to deepen his knowledge and provides lectures and courses for colleagues and students to further disseminate knowledge within avian and exotic veterinary medicine.
In his spare time, Rick can often be found in nature, searching for birds and other wildlife—both in the Netherlands and far beyond.
Karolien
Veterinarian
Karolien graduated from Utrecht University in 2013 as a companion animal veterinarian. During her studies, her interest in the medicine of exotic animals, especially rabbits and rodents, was truly sparked. She discovered how much more is possible for these species than she previously thought when she visited the vet with her own rabbits and rodents.
Her heart lies in caring for small animals with big personalities. In addition to her expertise in rabbit and rodent medicine, she has also specialized in avian medicine. She enjoys the precise, detailed work that these species require. Whether it involves soft tissue surgery, orthopedic procedures in birds, or the careful management of hospitalized patients, Karolien works with patience, dedication, and an eye for detail.
She enjoys continuous professional development and sharing her knowledge with others. For instance, she obtained her diploma in rabbit grooming and regularly provides lectures and training for colleagues and students.
In her spare time, she enjoys going out with Rick to spot birds and other wildlife—whether close to home or in distant locations.
Annemarie
Veterinary Nurse
Annemarie has been working as a veterinary nurse since 2013 and does so with immense passion. At home, she has a house full of animals, mostly rescues, which means she knows better than anyone how important good care is, and how it feels when your pet is ill. This experience translates into her work: Annemarie always goes the extra mile to ensure your animal receives all the attention and care it deserves, just as she would for her own pets.
The variety of the work is what appeals to her most about her profession. From assisting clients at the reception desk to assisting in surgeries or caring for hospitalized animals, Annemarie can and does it all. With her calm demeanor, experience, and dedication, she is a steady pillar within the team.
In her spare time, she lovingly cares for her own animals: two dogs, a cat, a rabbit, chinchillas, three Eclectus parrots, two lovebirds, a group of ducks and chickens, and a field full of sheep. Additionally, she enjoys showing her Border Terriers, Bliss and Bluff.
Sharona
Assistant
