6 Questions To Ask Before Raising Pet Birds

If you are thinking about bringing some pet birds into your home, be sure to consider these questions: First, are you thinking about getting pet birds? You’re not alone. There are approximately 16 million pet birds in the United States alone, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association. Before purchasing or adopting some pet birds, experts recommend that you ask yourself these six questions first to determine if you can contain them as an owner. For birds.

1- What is the best breed of pet bird you need?

For starters, it’s important to determine which type of pet bird is most important to you, said Nancy Peterson, a problem specialist at the Humane Society of the United States, based in Washington, D.C. Canaries and goldfinches are known for their song, color and activity, and they may be birds Cockatiels are more suitable if you want some friendly pet birds. If you want a talker, consider a parakeet. Pet birds are not recommended for children under the age of six due to possible injury to the birds or children. For children between seven and 12 years of age, they may I suggest budgies, cockatiels and lovebirds, parrots are absolutely the best for adults and teens.

2- Can you afford everything needed for pets?

Aside from the fees for purchasing or adopting a pet bird, you’ll need to purchase as large a cage as possible, high-quality food, supplements, bird toys, veterinary care supplies and more, and these costs combined can run into the hundreds or even hundreds, Peterson said. Thousands of dollars each year, depending on the breed and health of your pet bird, said Jennifer Miller, an emergency relief responder with the International Fund for Animal Welfare, based in Yarmouth Port, that it can be an optimal, well-balanced diet, especially if you want to provide your birds with Provide pets with the best organic foods rich in vitamins.

3- Are you ready to be responsible for caring for pets?

Successfully owning pet birds requires a lot of patience and commitment, especially for larger birds. Cages need to be cleaned regularly, and food and water must be refreshed at least once a day. Pet birds require specialized care and the dedication of a loyal owner who is aware of the behavioral and physical sensitivities of all species. Pet birds.

Caring for a pet bird can be very different and a bit more challenging than caring for a dog or cat. Birds are by nature incredibly active with flight, and sometimes captivity can lead to these behaviors changing, but birds tend to require constant attention, mental stimulation and company to a great extent. Life, and should provide plenty of time outside the cage if possible.

Are you ready to be responsible for caring for pets

Furthermore, some birds such as macaws, toucans, conures, and cockatoos can live 50 years or more, and small pet birds can have a lifespan of 10 years or more. In addition, if you plan to be away from home for long periods, You will need to make arrangements for a responsible pet owner who can provide for at least the bird’s basic needs.

4- Do you have the right to own the house and keep pet birds?

Evaluate your home and living conditions carefully. If you live in a small apartment or single-family home and it is difficult to have an extra half room, choosing a smaller bird may be a better option because a smaller cage can easily be placed in the bedroom or next to the couch. The optimal location is inside A quiet room with a large amount of sunlight, a view of the outside environment, and adequate ventilation. Before choosing a pet bird, determine what is the minimum permissible noise level in your home. Parrots like to scream sometimes, and this is normal behavior and usually occurs at dawn and dusk. If not If you, your family, or your neighbors can tolerate the noise, focus on small pet birds. For those in apartments, I recommend goldfinches, budgies, cockatiels, or lovebirds.

5- Can you keep pet birds healthy and safe?

It is essential to know the symptoms of sick birds and find a veterinarian who specializes in pet bird medicine. Birds should also be examined for psittacosis (a contagious bacterial infection) before transporting them to your home. For their safety, pet birds should be protected from wind, cats, dogs, and vandals. The sun and diseases that can be transmitted by wild birds.

Pet birds may not be a good choice if you have other pets that could mock or scare birds. In addition, be prepared to protect your pet birds from common household hazards such as smoke from burning food or ovens, cooking utensils, and tobacco smoke. , in addition to hairspray, insecticides, household cleaners and other aerosols.

6- Where will you find pet birds?

When you buy a pet bird from a pet store, you risk subsidizing bird mills. If you are determined to buy from a breeder, find a local breeder and visit to make sure you know what the conditions are. The best place to get birds is from breeders with directories. To help ensure you get a healthy bird, be sure to use a breeder who specializes in a particular breed. The breeder should be able to recommend a veterinarian and vice versa. The following characteristics to look for in pet birds in the ideal breeder:

* He raises small numbers of pet birds

* Specializes in some types

* Do not mix large parrots with small species such as cockatiels, lovebirds, and budgies

* Only weaned and hand-fed parrots are sold

*Pet birds are sold directly to customers, not through pet stores or bird shows

* Birds are raised on pellets