Just like any other pet, birds need regular veterinary care to thrive. Polly will need regular examinations, so her health can be closely monitored. She may also need to come in for wing or beak trims, as well as if she is ever ill. Read on for some tips from a Covington, GA vet on taking your feathered friend to her doctor.
If possible, bring your winged friend in her cage. Don’t clean the cage first, as your bird’s droppings may offer valuable insight about her health. Remove your little buddy’s water bowls. You may want to leave a safe, lightweight toy, as well as one sturdy perch. However, you don’t want too many things in the cage. These things could move during transit, and possibly cause an injury. That’s the last thing you want! If Polly’s cage too large to transport, you’ll need a travel cage. Put soft towels in the cage to make it comfy. It’s a good idea to let your bird get used to her travel cage at home. Use it to carry her from room to room.
Going on a car ride to a strange place is a big deal for many birds. Your winged buddy may get quite anxious and frightened. Talk to Polly in a gentle, soothing tone and let her know what’s going on. It’s also important that you stay within her line of sight, so she doesn’t feel you’ve abandoned her. Your pet may get frightened and thrash about if she needs a procedure done, such as a wing trim, which is new to her. Stay calm, and keep talking to her. As soon as the vet gives the ok, hold your feathered pal and cuddle her.
Ask your vet to recommend an appointment schedule for wellness care. In between visits, watch for signs of illness. Some common ones are disheveled, discolored, or missing feathers; changes in your bird’s stools; drooping wings or eyelids; disorientation; reduced appetite; changes in behavior or vocalizations; swelling or discoloration on the legs or feet; respiratory issues, such as coughing or wheezing; listlessness; and tail bobbing. Birds try to hide signs of illness, so it’s important to act quickly when you notice something is wrong.
Do you have questions about your bird’s health or care? Call us, your Covington, GA vet clinic!
