But the odds are that without a degree, you will not get the position because of the fierce competition. Exotic vet work is highly specialized. Vet school, in general, takes as long or longer than medical school. There are many different species to learn about. Working with exotics is a relatively new field and they are learning more and more.
Most exotic vets have a domestic practice and do exotics on-call.
Some do exclusive exotic work for a zoo. Extremely challenging and rewarding, and less competitive than less specialized careers. This is the field that is a labor of love. Low pay, high expenses. Most rehabbers are non-profit organizations and are often focusing on fund raising.