I was recently watching a talk show about second hand smoke.  One of the audience members recited a list of ailments she suffers as a result of cigarette smoke.  She, herself, has never smoked but her husband of many years did.  He passed away several years ago from throat cancer.  She is now a victim of HIS habit.

Her suffering brought to mind the many parrots out there living under similar circumstances. Second hand smoke is actually more toxic than that directly inhaled by a smoker. A parrot’s respiratory system is unique and sensitive and the habits of their humans can end or critically impair their lives.

I can’t tell you how many bird owners homes I have gone into where it is immediately obvious that they smoke excessively.  I could smell it in the air, on their furniture and, sadly, on their birds.  There have been occasions where the overall  appearance of some of these birds has made me question their health.  When they begin to discuss their bird’s behavior issues, I have to wonder what role their smoking has played.

If you smoke, please read information about the dangers of second hand smoke, and never, ever smoke around your birds.

Patty Jourgensen specializes in avian health, behavior and nutrition and has been working with and caring for rescue birds since 1987.