When Is it Time?

IMG_3040

We don’t ever forget the animals we’ve lost

 

This is a very difficult and delicate post to write, and one that brings a lump to my throat just considering: The question of when a pet’s time has come, and whether to consider euthanasia, is easily the most difficult part of animal ownership. Ending needless suffering is a responsible thing to do. It’s difficult because no one wants to do it too soon – or ever.

I have had many pets in my lifetime. For most, ...

Read the rest or post a comment »

Continue reading

Meet Parrot Rescue Assistant, Monique!

Monique and senegal Zaza

Monique and senegal Zaza

My journey started off rather dodgy to be honest, I have always loved animals. Big or small, cute and “ugly”, I just couldn’t get enough of them. However, I never had a particular interest in birds, they just never stood out to me. Sure they were beautiful, but they never seemed all that special.

So how did I end up here? Well, even though I knew nothing about them, I decided to get ...

Read the rest or post a comment »

Continue reading

The Hardest Thing About “Owning” Birds…

IMG_0185

The newest member of my flock – Charlie (Galah/Rosebreasted Cockatoo)

As I type this, the newest member of my flock, Charlie the galah is with his avian vet and I’m not sure that he’s coming home. I’m sitting next to my mobile phone waiting for news. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve checked to see if my phone is working. I know I charged it but maybe it has gone flat super fast? Nope. It’s working. It’s also too soon for the ...

Continue reading

Why Do They Make It SO Hard To Adopt A Rescue Bird??

 

Photo by Anna Sloan - Macaw and Cockatoo Rescue of New Mexico

Photo by Anna Sloan – Macaw and Cockatoo Rescue of New Mexico

Recently there has been some discussion on our Facebook page about parrot rescue and there were several commenters complaining about the vetting process that potential guardians must undergo before they are considered suitable to adopt. Others complained about the fees involved.

I understood their points of view. Why is there a charge for birds that the ...

Read the rest or post a comment »

Continue reading

The Unnatural Life Is Natural For A Captive Parrot

Cockatoo1

Taking your parrot for a walk is great for him and you.

 

Let me put it right out there: Owning parrots isn’t natural. What else are we supposed to do with parrots who could never survive in the wild, other than place them in loving homes that strive to meet their unique needs? That’s the best place for these amazing animals.

We owners put a lot of time into caring for our babies, and sometimes this involves making choices that would be unnatural for a ...

Read the rest or post a comment »

Continue reading

Psittacosis Explained

Budgie

This budgie is suffering from psittacosis and an incorrect wing clip. Note the poor posture, the discharge around his cere and that he is sitting fluffed. He also has a tail bob.

 

Recently there has been a spike in concern about Psittacosis as news has spread that Petsmart in the US have removed birds for sale from 500 stores after 16 birds (so far) have tested positive to the disease. For many, it’s the first time they’ve even heard of the disease and understandably ...

 

Continue reading