"IMO, I think it is cruel and inhumane to not take your pet to get professional help when they need it."

I agree! I think it is awesome there are more vets who specialize in small animals! The more popular they become, the better and more advanced the procedures and medicine becomes, therefore making it safer! Heck, I know there are even vets who specilize in fish! And I know there are people who do surgery on fish too. And as Songlover said, I too believe they are a valuable service to our society & pets! I dont understand why you're mad about people taking their pets to a vet.. just because they are small animals?? It sounds like you think just because they are small, they arent worth treating... Just the impression you gave me! :O And about the tail.. sure it may heal on its own, but so would any wound on any other animal. However! I can only imagine how painful that would be! I dont know about you, but Id rather my pet's wound be treated than it suffer in pain while it heals, or risk infection. No matter if its a little gerbil or my cat. You may think, well what about in the wild? When they get injuries, they have to suffer while it heals, and that may be true, but it is my personal belief that our pets were brought into this world by us breeding them, and therefore it is our responsibility to give them the best care possible while they are in our care. Anyhoo.. just my opinion