Before you purchase a bird, please ensure that you have thought carefully about the needs of birds as pets. Speak to your local veterinarian and other pet owners, and gather as much information as you can to aid you in your decision.
Responsibilities of owning a bird
Buying a bird really means that you are prepared to take on a serious commitment for five to ten years depending on the type of bird you choose. Keep in mind the following checklist:
Children caring for pets: Owning a pet provides a child with companionship and teaches the child responsibility and care for dependent creatures. Parents, however, must at all times guide children in their choice of a pet and the husbandry of the animal, and be prepared to supervise the day-to-day care so that the animal is not neglected through ignorance or loss of interest.
Which bird?
A canary or budgerigar is a particularly good pet for a family with very limited space or modest means. They are suitable for people living alone, especially flat dwellers. The care of these caged birds could hardly be more simple or undemanding, but the individuality they show depends on the degree of freedom they are allowed and on the stimulation provided by their surroundings and their companions.
Male or female: it is the male canary, which whistles, and the male budgerigar, which is easier to teach to talk.
Buying your bird
Buy your bird from a reputable source. Beware of purchasing it from markets, pet shops or places where large numbers of pets are kept, unless you are satisfied with the condition of the facilities.
Never purchase a pet that looks unwell or is for sale with other animals that look unwell. It is far better to avoid a problem by taking due care and precaution in selection. Purchasing the unwell animal may support a breeder who is not taking care of his animals. If you are ever concerned about the welfare of birds for sale, contact us to confirm the action to take to make a formal complaint.
Read all you can about the particular type of pet you have chosen. Books about birds are obtainable from pet shops, newsagents or your local library. Talk to friends who have the same type of bird you wish to purchase. Check with your local veterinary surgeon about the specific medical problems the bird of your choice could contract. At the same time check how these diseases are recognisable and what preventative measures are required to avoid them.
Birds require specialised shelter from the elements, protection from natural enemies such as cats, dogs and wild birds, a correct and balanced daily diet, and the opportunity to take adequate exercise.
Owners must ensure that pets receive proper veterinary care when they are ill, and must watch their pets to detect signs of illness.