Monthly Archive for May, 2011

Deciding on the Best Physician for Your Bird

Published on May 24, 2011 in Birds. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , .

Deciding on the Best Physician for Your BirdOur bird ought to be regularly visiting a vet we’ve chosen to assist us in taking care of them.  However not all doctors can provide best care for our pet.  You might want to consult someone who specializes in birds and this someone is called an avian veterinarian.  Consider someone who belongs to the prestigious Association of Avian Veterinarians (AAV).

Members of AAV have six (6) or more years of knowledge and skills in bird health.  There are few numbers of AAV members worldwide and that includes roughly 70 in Australia.

However if there is no certified AAV in your area, the best that you can do is seek advice from a veterinarian as per recommendations of other bird owners.  Bird breeders and organizations for bird care and ownership are also good places to ask about looking for a suitable avian vet for your pet.  Or you may also check on the Yellow Pages.  Alternatively you can search online and set appointment with them.

During your initial visit to the vet’s office, talk to them about your expectations and take note of their answers.  It’s good to be advised how long they have been dealing with birds, the paraphernalia they use or even the trainings they had.  Also note how your pet bird behaves with them.  Ask them, as well, if they can be reached or consulted for emergency cases.  If not, ask for an alternate whom they trust and can provide you and your pet bird the attention your vet gives.

It is also nice to note prior or after speaking with prospective vet if they have a clean place and if it has a generally friendly atmosphere.  We wouldn’t want our pet to stay a night, say for observation, if the clinic is unhygienic as our bird may easily catch other bird’s disease.

A reliable doctor is someone who is interested in our pet only when they are sick but someone who offer pointers on handling small issues on our own.  You may be instructed on discerning if your bird is not feeling well and what you might need to do until you can bring your pet over.

As bird owners, we should have the apt avian first aid kit at home.  Included in this is a carrier to transport our pet bird as their aviary may not fit in the car.  Cotton swabs, betadine, tubing, gauze tape and some other things that your vet may recommend.  Ensure you have adequate supplies at any given time.

Our best friend in taking care of our pet is our veterinarian.  Their skills and knowledge about birds should be ample to give our trust to them and anticipate all is well.  While there are plenty of veterinarians, know which would be right for your pet bird.  Being able to speak with them initially should give you an idea on who to choose for your bird.

 

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Knowing if Something Wrong is Going on with Your Bird

Published on May 19, 2011 in Birds. 0 Comments Tags: , , , , , , , .

Have you noticed there is something peculiar in your bird when you come home from work or first thing in the morning?  Do not ignore a nagging feeling that something is wrong with your pet bird, as that may be the case.  Consider this before it will be too late for your pet.  But how can you really tell if something’s amiss with your bird?  Observe you pet and look out for these signs;

When your bird does not have the same appetite as it has before, it is one sign that your bird may not be feeling well.  This may be caused by intestinal blockage of impaction.  Try taking your bird out from it’s aviary and weigh them.  Weight loss is an indication that your bird could be sick.

Signs of internal bleeding on birds are yellow, rusty brown or tarry black bird droppings.  If this happens, observe you bird and see if it happens more or less frequently.

Birds are generally clean creatures similar to that of cats.  If you notice their wings looking dirty, it would

Knowing if Something Wrong is Going on with Your Bird

indicate that your bird is not on top of its shape.  If their feathers seemed fluffed out, this could mean that they are suffering from respiratory problems or some other conditions.  Better bring your pet to the vet if this happens more than a day.

Another thing to watch out on your bird is when their nose shows signs of inflammation or there is discharge.  Taking them to the vet might be their only chance of survival.  Respiratory issues on birds are common and you’d be able to tell this if they breathe through their mouth.

Your pet bird’s eyes could also give you indications if your pet is sick.  If it appears to be cloudy or there is a discharge then it’s time to take them to your vet as they may be suffering from muscular, respiratory or nervous disorder.

Another tell tale sign if your bird is not well is if you notice their tail bobbing.  When your pet’s tail frequently moves up and down, which is not normal to birds, it just shows that something is wrong with them.

And lastly, birds are typically noisy and any change in their vocalization may imply that there is something not right with their health.

Birds are sensitive creatures however they are unable to tell you if they are sick.  Paying close attention to the signs can greatly help your bird in keeping them healthy and being brought to the vet, as needed to keep them in top form.

 

Draw Your Kids into Loving Your Pet Birds

Published on May 13, 2011 in Birds. 0 Comments Tags: , , , .

Caring for pets can teach children good values and this is more rewarding instead of giving toys to your kids which they will eventually outgrow.  Find them a pet they can easily handle like birds.  To enthrall your kids into taking in a pet, involve them in the selection process.  Just bear in mind to pick a species that they can deal with.  Educate them regarding the kind of birds you see in the shop so they’d be able to select well.

Pets usually attract kids.  Be able to show them how to become friends and good providers to their pets.  Be a good leader by teaching them good values in the process.  You may opt to give them incentives for goodness they show their pets.  Teach your kids the value of money by assisting them in choosing accessories for the birds that could give best worth for their money.  You can also give them allowance to spend for their pets.

Assist them in choosing the right bird for them which could be their companion and friend.  Below are some suggested birds especially if it will be your child’s first pet.  These birds are manageable and will be a learning experience for them.

1. Finches.  These birds require minimal interaction.  If you your kid is an active one who tends to take on many things at a time, finches are just right for them.  The birds will not demand for too much attention from their owners.  The soothing music that the birds create through their chatter and soft chirps could sound pleasant to your kits.  It will be advisable to keep more than a single finch so your pet will have company even if you’re not able to lavish them attention.  However, finches should not be taken out of their aviaries– an important detail you must impart to your kids from the start.

2. Cockatiels.  These birds are the social type who love to interact and will make them satisfied if their owners spend time with them.  An ideal kind for both young and older kids, these species can be taught to talk and would perhaps be enjoyable for your child if this project becomes successful.  As cockatiels are sociable, it will be a delight to your kid to spend time with them especially after a long day in school.

3. Parakeets or Budgies.  Another sociable bird species, these types are attractive to kids due to its appearance.  These birds are pretty and colorful.  They love to be touched.  These small-sized birds can be easily carried around by even small kids.  They are gentle and sweet in nature making them a delightful companion.

If your child spends sufficient time with their pets, they can teach the birds tricks such as whistling their favorite tunes.  The bonding time of your child with their pets could be rewarding for both.

Draw Your Kids into Loving Your Pet Birds

from top left, clockwise: cockatiel, parakeet, finch

Indulge Your Pet Bird Occasionally

Published on May 7, 2011 in Birds and Birds Aviaries. 0 Comments Tags: , , .

Does your bird need a variety of diet once in a while?  Your bird would benefit if you give a lift to their diet on occasions to modify their usual diet of pellets and seeds.  Here are few of the treats you can give them.

It is good to offer fresh fruits to your pet birds.  Fruits are rich in vitamins and mineral.  You can give them bananas, melons, grapes and oranges, to name a few.  However whatever they have not consumed after an hour is better discarded to avoid harmful bacteria that may have feasted on the exposed fruits.

As fruits are good, so are vegetables like carrots, peas, cauliflower and broccoli.  Just ensure to wash them properly to rid it of pesticides used during sowing. Cooked beans are also a treat you can give your bird.

Your pet bird can also enjoy pasta as much as we their owners do.  Pasta is rich in carbohydrates.  Fresh or cooked, it goes well with fruits and vegetables.

Another carbohydrates and fiber-packed food you can give your bird is bread.  When offering bread for the first time, it is advisable to offer it in small portions. Grains and cereals also contain carbohydrates.  These treats also provide your birds protein so simply supply their plates and see them enjoy your treat.

Nuts can be given; it is a tasty delight and one that can get their beaks active for a time.  Popcorn is another snack you can offer them.  May be served popped or unpopped.  Just make sure to soften the hull first by boiling it in plain water.  Cooked popcorn should be heated in the microwave to reduce fat and salt content.

And to literally spice up your pet birds’ diet, you can give them a bit of pepper.  However, since birds lack taste receptors that we have, they don’t really feel the heat in the food. You can even offer them banana pepper or fresh chili to see for yourself.

Our pet birds require the suitable nutrition for them.  To verify foods that can be given to them, you may consult with your veterinarian or you can even research on it.  This would ensure that what you give them is completely safe and will not cause any side effects to them.

Do not force your pets to eat what you have offered if they don’t like it.  Try giving them another treat.  As you move along, you will discover what food is acceptable to your pet and makes them happy so there would be variations in their diet.  And whatever treat you give them, ensure they have sufficient water in their aviaries for proper digestion and nourishment.