Professional Summary
Dr. Amy Bitter is thrilled to be part of the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital team and to serve the Southern California community where she was born and raised. A lifelong animal lover, her passion for exotic animal medicine began at age 18 when she welcomed her first reptile, Leif, a crested gecko, into her family. Since then, she has dedicated her education and career to advancing the health and welfare of exotic species.
Professional Role & Experience
Dr. Bitter earned her Associate's degree at Palomar College before transferring to Louisiana State University, where she graduated at the top of her class with a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science. She continued her education at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, where she further developed her passion for exotic animal medicine.
During veterinary school, Dr. Bitter completed an Exotic Animal Medicine clinical track to gain advanced, specialized training in the care of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals. She has contributed to several reptile research publications and has presented at veterinary conferences on topics including insect gut-loading, the effects of UVB lighting on leopard geckos, and nutritional digestibility in blue-tongued skinks.
Dr. Bitter is committed to lifelong learning and plans to pursue board certification through the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) in Reptile and Amphibian Practice.
Special Interests & Areas of Focus
- Reptile and amphibian medicine
- Avian and exotic companion animal care
- Preventative medicine and wellness
- Exotic animal nutrition and husbandry
- Reptile research and evidence-based medicine
- Client education
Education & Training
- Palomar College
- Louisiana State University — Bachelor of Science in Animal Science (Graduated at the top of her class)
- Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine — Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.)
- Completed the Exotic Animal Medicine Clinical Track
- Future Diplomate Candidate, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP) – Reptile & Amphibian Practice
Outside the Hospital
Outside of veterinary medicine, Dr. Bitter enjoys staying active through workouts, beach volleyball, and spending time outdoors. She is an enthusiastic fan of the Los Angeles Chargers, LSU Tigers, and San Diego Padres, and enjoys relaxing with a good IPA after a busy week.
Her home is filled with a variety of beloved animals, including her dog Raya, cat Cali, Leif the crested gecko, Fry the leopard gecko, Lila the blue-tongued skink, and Abba the western hognose snake.
Dr. Bitter is passionate about building lasting relationships with pet owners and is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care that helps every patient live a long, healthy, and happy life.