Looking for books about parrots?
Check out our
Amazon Bookstore
|
A Vacation for the Birds
By Jayne Meyers |
Youve worked hard all year and finally, its time for vacation but you just cant stand the thought of
leaving your birds behind. After all, maybe theyd enjoy a change of scenery, too! It can be done with
proper planning and a little bit of the right equipment. Depending on your mode of travel, youll need the
appropriate carrier and/or travel cage, some favorite toys, proper foods and perhaps a flight suit or feather
tether. If your plans include interstate travel, be aware that many states (and all airlines) require health
certificates for the interstate movement of animals. Your veterinarian can provide the proper examination
and paperwork. Be aware, too, that different travel providers have different regulations: some airlines
regulate the number of pets permitted on each flight and Amtrak only allows service animals on board.
If you have a motor home, youve got it made. Many birds enjoy a car trip and the resulting change of
scenery. There are many travel cages on the market that are suitable for use in an RV or trailer. With a little
bit of preparation, your birds can enjoy all the comforts of home. If youre traveling by car, there are travel
cages and carriers to suit those needs as well. For safetys sake, whenever your bird is with you in the car,
he or she should be safely ensconced in a carrier, and that carrier secured with a seatbelt around it. An
airbag suddenly inflating can quickly kill a bird, so be sure to strap your pet into the backseat. Over the
past few years, several new carriers have come onto the market that are quite roomy they can do doubleduty
as a travel cage for a short trip of just a few days. An added benefit of these carriers is that they are
equipped with straps for easy conversion to a backpack.
I visit with my family at least once a year and often like to bring my parrot, Bink E Berde, with me. Several
years ago, I purchased an appropriately sized travel cage and had it shipped to my familys residence. I
also keep some toys on hand and stock up on food for him once we arrive. This has proved to be a smart
move and has ensured that Bink E has comfortable and spacious living quarters during our visits.
No self-respecting bird likes to be without some of his or her favorite foods, so no matter how youll be
traveling, be sure to pack a bag full of non-perishable foods and treats. If youre traveling via car or motor
home, a cooler or small refrigerator will keep produce and cooked foods fresh. I use distilled water for all
of my pets and always bring a bottle along. If you use tap water, remember that a change in water can
cause a digestive upset so bring along some of your birds usual water or switch to a bottled product.
With just a bit of attention to safety and comfort, theres no reason why your birds cant share the joy and
excitement of a well-planned vacation.
2006, Avian Health Network, Inc. All rights reserved.
Fine Print ~ The information contained herein is for educational purposes only, and is not meant to substitute for quality avian veterinary care. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. You should consult with your trust avian healthcare professional right away if you feel you have an ill bird or hurt bird. Those with a bird(s) exhibiting any symptom of illness should seek the advice of a qualified avian medical professional immediately.
The opinions and/or content of the published documents are the sole opinions of their author and are not the opinions of Avian Health Network, Inc., their board, volunteers, or other participants. Avian Health Network, Inc. further does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information, text, or other items contained within these materials.
Avian Health Network, Inc. #54-2068091 is a 501(C) 3 headquartered and incorporated in the Commonwealth of Virginia. We are an organization of volunteers with no paid personnel. We are committed to raising public awareness and funds for avian diseases such as PDD. Financial Statement is available upon written request from the State Office of Consumer Affairs, Commonwealth of Virginia. Proceeds generated by the StopPDD campaign will go to help subsidize the research of the Emerging Diseases Research Group (EDRG) at the University of Georgias College of Veterinary Medicine.
|
