Dr. Jessica Hockaday

Dr. Jessica Hockaday completed her undergraduate degree from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, earning a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with a minor in Dairy Science. Before veterinary school Dr. Jessica worked as a veterinary technician in emergency, general practice, and mixed animal practices. It was her dream to pursue her DVM and she graduated from Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine in 2016. After graduating veterinary school, she was accepted into a rigorous residency program while also pursuing a Master's of Science from Mississippi State University focusing on poultry production medicine, diagnostics, health and welfare. Animal welfare and health of all species is what drives Dr. Jessica's efforts in veterinary medicine beyond her specialty training in poultry medicine.

Recent Articles

How To Apply Eye Drops to Pet Birds

Jessica Hockaday, DVM

Birds make wonderful pets, but like any other companion animal, they are prone to having health flare-ups. Eye problems are common in pet birds. These pets can live a very long life, so you’re likely to...

Yeast Infection in Birds

Jessica Hockaday, DVM

What Is a Yeast Infection in Birds? Yeast is an opportunistic organism, meaning it can cause disease and other problems in pet birds and poultry when their immune systems are under stress. The most common...

Fowl Pox

Jessica Hockaday, DVM

What Is Fowl Pox? Fowl pox, also known as avian pox, is a viral disease that affects many species of wild and pet birds. Fowl pox is most commonly found in chickens and turkeys and can infect most bird...

Conjunctivitis in Birds

Jessica Hockaday, DVM

What Is Conjunctivitis in Birds? Conjunctivitis in birds occurs when the eye becomes inflamed. Since eyes are vulnerable for birds in general, they can be prone to eye injuries that can lead to this condition. Conjunctivitis is common in many pet birds. The condition may also be referred to as: Pink eye Blepharoconjunctivitis—inflammation of the conjunctiva and eye margin (lids) Seek...

Bird Feather Plucking

Jessica Hockaday, DVM

What Is Feather Plucking in Birds? Feather plucking is when a bird damages or plucks their feathers. Feather plucking is relatively common in pet birds. Bird will pluck or chew their feathers for medical...