Adopting a bird is a huge responsibility. You have to be ready to commit to the time and finances it takes to care for your new feathered friend. If you think you are ready to adopt, below is a list of things to consider and what you will need.
- Research different bird species so that you understand their behaviors. Whether small or large, each species has their own quirks. Some are very hormonal and some are very loud. Do your homework to make sure you are not surprised once you bring home your bird.
- Make sure you are committed. Birds do not do well left in cages all day. And just like any other pet, they must have annual checkups and grooming. This can be expensive.
- Cages and carriers need to be chosen based on the size of your bird. When adopting our birds, we ask that you give us the size and dimensions of your cage and carrier to make sure they will be perfect for our bird. No plastic carriers for large beak birds.
- On our recommended vendor page, we have a list of recommend food for your bird. When leaving with your bird, we will provide you a starter kit.
- Small gram scale with small perch. Consistently weighing your bird will tell who if it is eating well or if it is sick.
- An OZONE FREE air purifier for your birds room. This is particularly important if you have more than one bird. It not only helps their little lungs from their own dander but helps with allergies that affect you and your family. Check out Rabbit Air.
- Always have a medical kit on hand. Purchase the following and keep them in a plastic tub.
General Bird First Aid Supplies
Items: Scissors, tweezers, pliers or hemostats, disposable gloves, magnifying glass, penlight, wire cutters and nail clippers
Hemostatic Products to Control Bleeding
Items: Cornstarch/commercial hemostatic products, paper towels and bird-safe lubricants
Bandages
Items: Gauze, nonstick pads, first aid tape, bandage rolls, wooden sticks, cotton swabs and stockinette
Rehydration Tools
Items: syringes of various sizes and an eye dropper
Heating Agents
Items: Heating pad/lamp and hot pack/hot water bottle
Antibacterial Products and Sterile Washes
Items: Chlorhexidine, triple antibiotic ointment, eye wash, sterile saline
** The above item list is not to replace emergency avian veterinary care. Please advise with your veterinarian before using.