Nico Schoemaker (DVM, PhD, Dipl. ECZM Small mammal & Avian) graduated from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Utrecht University in 1994. This was directly followed by an internship in companion animal medicine, residency in avian medicine and PhD on hyperadrenocorticism in ferrets. Aside from the recognition as a European specialist in Small mammal medicine, Nico also holds a European diploma in Avian Medicine, and is recognized as an avian specialist in the USA. Nico is currently employed at the Division of Zoological Medicine in Utrecht, where he devotes his time to teaching, research and patient care of small mammals and birds.