TRAVELING WITH YOUR BIRD
FAQ provided by rec.pets.birds
Comments, suggestions, chocolates to: Jodi Giannini (giannini@nova.umd.edu). This FAQ, as a collection of information, is copyrighted 1993, by Jodi L. Giannini, and distribution by means other than Usenet is by permission only. Removal of this copyright notice is not permitted.
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INDEX
TRAVELING WITH BIRDS
Q. Can I travel with my bird?
A. If your bird is not stressed by new places and situations, yes. Make sure to call ahead to confirm that hotels will take birds. Also talk to your vet if you'll be crossing state lines, you may need a certificate of health and perhaps other papers.
Q. What's the best way to transport my bird?
A. In a sturdy container. It's a terrible idea to let the bird ride on your shoulder or be loose in the car. Should the bird spook, it could endanger everybody.
Q. What about carsickness? Do birds get it?
A. Yes, with the same symptoms as people. They get sick and vomit, act listless and may lose their appetite. Not feeding the bird and covering the cage will help ease this. The sickness may even be due to nerves. Once again, your vet can help you.
Q. Should I acclimate my bird to travelling in the car?
A. If the bird seems apprehensive about it, yes. Do this gradually, perhaps beginning with the carrier. Let the bird have enough time to get used to it. Leave it open in the play area and let the bird poke around in it. Take the bird out to the car. Sit in it for a while. Don't run the car, just sit in there, and praise the bird. Work up to where the bird feels comfortable. Then try running the car. Work up to comfort again. Then try short drives. Then longer. And then pretty soon the bird will be able to drive the car by itself.
Q. What should I bring when travelling?
A. A first aid kit (just in case) food, treats, bottled water or water from home, strange water may cause health problems. A few favorite toys, and of course, your bird!
Q. What if my bird can't deal with travelling?
A. You can have a family member or a friend come in and feed and socialize with your bird or you can hire a pet-sitter. You can also board your bird with someone, but doing so at a pet-shop may prove too stressful for the bird, and it could catch something from other birds at the shop. Boarders and pet-sitters are listed in the yellow-pages. Get references and make sure that the person or company is bonded. Try to get the pet-sitter to come over and meet your bird and show the sitter how to prepare the bird's meals. Give the sitter a chance to play with the bird, if possible. Leave a sheet with written instructions and the number of your vet and where you can be contacted if any problems occur.
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June 1996. All Rights Reserved.
