Safety Begins at Home

The Environment:

Parrots rely on their humans to provide a safe and happy environment. Bird-proofing your home is well worth the effort! Keep dangerous chemicals, medicine and vitamins in cabinets and out of reach. Store chemicals separate from food items. Someone could mistakenly grab the wrong box! If possible, install child safety locks on cabinets. 

Always be alert when your avian companions are out and about. Keep a watchful eye and ear ~ never leaving them unattended. Remember parrots are instinctively curious - it is our jobs as humans to provide a safe haven for them.

Windows & Window Coverings:

Please ensure screens are securely in place on your windows. Keep window coverings and shade cords completely out of the reach. Adjust cords to the shortest lengths possible or install a tie-down device completely out of reach. Please do not knot or loop up cords—it puts your birds at risk of becoming entangled.

Toys, Cages, Gyms/Play Areas:

Examine your bird’s toys and play gyms daily. Clip back rope fraying. Secure quick links. Ensure perches are tightly affixed. Are there any loose parts on the toys? Are there broken parts that are sharp or dangerous? ALWAYS check these things daily!!! Remove all plastic parts that are chewed and replace with new parts.

Annual Check Up:

Protect the health of your pet bird by visiting your avian veterinarian for a wellness check every six months, and at the very least, once a year!

Car Safety:

Ensure the safety of your pet bird by protecting them in a carrier. Did you know you can install a wooden dowel in a regular pet carrier for an instant perch? Also be aware of where airbags are located in your vehicle. The airbag that can injure a child can also injure your bird. Always secure carriers with a seat belt. If your avian friend is curious, prop up the carrier underneath with pillows so they can see out the windows!

Note: Should your pet bird be fearful of car rides, it would be a good idea to keep the sides of the carrier covered with a dark blanket so they feel secure.

Birdsitter Checklist: Create a contact list to include:

• Avian Veterinarian’s emergency phone number
• Poison Control (1-800-222-1222)
• Fire and Local Police
• Bird-friendly contacts close to home. 
  Note: Birds require special care. People who are not familiar with household dangers put your birds at risk! Beware of household dangers: overheated Teflon poisoning, candles, hot wax, hot glue, chemicals and exposure to other toxins, ceiling fans, etc.
• Also, it is a good idea to keep a valid credit card on file with your vet’s office.
• Keep pertinent information updated on each member of your flock.
• Diagram of cage with feeders, which food dish goes into which food holder. 
• Note any different type of care for each bird. 
• Bed time (what time are the cages covered?) Any special treats (raisins, nuts, etc.) 
• Any specific play time out of the cage. 
• Medication (special needs like calcium supplementation, etc.)
• Changing the cage paper daily, cleaning the perches, etc 
• If you do not have someone who can come to your home, find a place that will board your birds. Note: This increases the risk of transference of diseases, so please be cautious. Local bird clubs, veterinarians ~ Personal recommendations are highly recommended. Always leave a phone number where you can be contacted. 
• Disaster Resource Plan: No neighborhood is safe from natural disasters and emergencies. Develop a Disaster Plan, share responsibility and work as a team!
• Some helpful tips:
• Check your flashlights. 
• Keep extra batteries. 
• Post emergency telephone numbers. 
• Test smoke detectors. 
• Store enough blankets for each pet and individual. 
• Stock up on specialty items (birdseed, sprouts, bottled water, non- perishable foods, etc).
• Keep carriers handy so they can be grabbed quickly.

While no one ever wants to endure the pain and agony of a crisis, planning may ease the stress of these events. Following a disaster, families can overcome the adversity of the situation by supporting each other and working together to overcome what may be lost. This support can strengthen the family in ways that will last long after the crisis is resolved.

Monica Gonzalez, published: 11/18/01, revised 2/23/05
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