Our History

Dr. Dean Axelson (1934-2011), founder of The Links Road Animal & Bird Clinic in 1973, was considered one of the pioneers of avian and exotic animal medicine in Canada since his graduation from the Ontario Veterinary College in 1960. Over the course of his career, he imparted his vast wealth of knowledge to many prominent avian and exotic veterinarians including his son, Dr. Rick Axelson, the current owner/partner of The Links Road Animal & Bird Clinic. He was past president of the Association of Avian Veterinarians (1985). He had written extensively on veterinary subjects, authored a chapter in a veterinary textbook on Avian Dermatology and was the author of “So You Want A Pet Bird” (1981). He had lectured extensively across Ontario and North America. Dean Axelson appeared on many radio and television shows. Dean Axelson received the OVMA Golden Life Membership Award 2004 recognizing individuals who have served the veterinary profession in an extraordinary manner. He retired from full-time veterinary practice in 1997.

The Links Road Animal & Bird Clinic promotes the wellness of birds, rabbits, ferrets, rodents, reptiles and other exotic pets.

The Links Road Animal & Bird Clinic offers care for all exotic pets with expertise encompassing more than 70 years of combined clinical and surgical experience. We strive to meet the needs of patients and their owners. Our special interest and expertise is focused on birds and exotic animals. Our Toronto facility is certified under the rigorous guidelines of the College of Veterinarians of Ontario (CVO). Our staff offer a wide range of veterinary services. We also volunteer our expertise and surgical services for The Owl Foundation.