Thinking of Adopting A Bird

Adopting a bird from a previous owner can be very rewarding. In some cases it can also bring issues that you did not expect.
 
Birds are adopted for many reasons and they are not all bad ones. Just because someone needs to find a new home for their bird, does not mean that the bird has not been well cared for or that the bird has issues or has been mistreated.
 
It is just unfortunate that most cases that are spoken about involve birds that have had bad experiences in their past.
 
So Now What Will You Do?
 
Somehow it happened:
 
Someone moved, passed away or that bargain ad in the classifieds is too good to pass up, what ever the circumstance is.
 
You are now the proud owner of a re-homed pet bird. Re-homed and older birds can make wonderful pets and very often do. They may need a lot more time and understanding to help them adapt to a new household.
 
Deciphering The Past
 
  • First, consider the bird's past life. Was it a beloved pet, or an abused and neglected bird? Parrots are capable of forming very deep attachments, and if it lost its previous owner, it might go through a period of grieving.
  • Some birds will refuse to eat or play and will mope around the cage. If a veterinarian has ruled out physical causes, then the bird is may well be depressed.
  • Spend as much time as possible with your new pet, and offer treats and toys and plenty of love. It will likely respond quickly to your kindness.
  • On the other hand, a previously abused bird has no reason to like or trust humans, and will need convincing that this home is different and that you really do care.
  • Older birds come into a new home with a lot more baggage,' said Ken Eisenberg, DVM, of All Creatures Great and Small Veterinary Practice in Downers Grove. "They might have been subject to a lot of negative reinforcement, and could also be suffering from the effects of a poor diet or unaddressed medical issues.''
  • If your pet came from a dubious background, start with a thorough vet check and dietary makeover. Don't force a lot of direct interaction in the beginning, but instead spend as much time as possible near the bird while engaged in another activity, such as reading, cooking, or watching television. Parrots are expert at picking up on human moods, and the goal should be to allow it to quietly observe the family in a non-threatening situation.
  • Eventually, the new addition will begin to solicit attention. Then it is time for interaction. "If you are taming a parrot, you have to accept that you're going to get bitten sometimes,'' Parrots use their beaks to explore, to defend themselves, and to show affection through gentle preening. A fearful bird might offer a painful warning nip, but usually only truly aggressive birds bite at full strength.
 
The Basic Commandment:
 
  • At minimum, a pet parrot should learn the "step up'' command so that it can be safely moved from place to place. To execute this command, place your hand (or finger, for smaller parrots) against the bird's abdomen and say "step up.'' If the bird doesn't respond, then push against it gently as you are giving the command. A tame previously trained bird should immediately step onto an offered hand. If you're dealing with a fearful or likely-to-bite parrot, move quickly and confidently. Give the command, offer the hand, and push gently all in one swift movement. The trick is to get the bird to step up before it has a chance to consider options such as biting or running away.
  • Most importantly, never offer your hand and then jerk it back if the parrot reaches with its beak. It will teach a fearful bird that hands are unpredictable and scary; It will teach an aggressive bird that it can intimidate you. Either way, the relationship is off to a very rocky start.
 
For further help, consider the following resources:
 
  • An avian veterinarian. Besides advice, he or she might have access to a treasure trove of handouts to help.
  • Local bird clubs. These organizations often hold educational seminars or feature helpful speakers
  • Online bird forums
 
Please give serious thought to the bird before you simply go out and just get it.
 
  • A Bird is for life
  • It is Not just there to look pretty in a cage
  • You have rights. So do birds
  • You have needs. So do birds
  • Do you have what it takes to care for an exotic bird ?
  • Is it the right bird for you, your family and your circumstances?
 
There are already so many birds out there that need new "Forever Homes". All we ask is that you please do your homework before you jump into it.
 
Pretty Please: Think before you act. Another birds well being could depend on it.
 
You can also
 
 
To contact us and we will try our best to help and point you in the right direction.
 
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