Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAIs) have traditionally centered on dogs and horses; however, a growing body of literature demonstrates that small exotic mammals—including guinea pigs, rabbits, and rats—can offer unique and meaningful benefits within therapeutic, educational, and clinical settings. These species are often particularly well suited for populations where size, sensory input, or cultural considerations limit the feasibility of traditional therapy animals. At the same time, their inclusion in AAIs presents distinct welfare challenges that require species-specific knowledge, careful case selection, and ongoing professional oversight. This lecture will present a targeted review of the existing literature on AAIs incorporating small exotic mammals, highlighting documented outcomes for human participants. Emphasis will be placed on interpreting these findings through a welfare-centered lens with considerations unique to guinea pigs, rabbits, and rats. Designed for veterinarians who already possess deep species expertise, this session will translate AAI research into practical guidance for clinical practice. Attendees will learn how veterinarians can play a proactive role in identifying appropriate animal candidates, counseling clients interested in AAI participation, and supporting long-term success through preventative care, behavior monitoring, and ethical decision-making. Case examples will illustrate how veterinary involvement can mitigate welfare risks while enhancing program quality and sustainability. By positioning veterinarians as key collaborators in interdisciplinary AAI teams, this lecture underscores the profession’s critical role in ensuring that the integration of small exotic mammals into AAIs is both evidence-informed and ethically sound—advancing human benefit without compromising animal welfare.