Friends Of Feathers Bird Rescue And Sanctuary

Ten Commandments of Parrot Ownership
– From a parrot's point of view!
By Jane Hallander
Reprinted with permission

• My life is likely to last 10 or more years. Any separation from you will be painful to me. Remember that before you take me home.

• Give me time to understand what you want of me.

• Place your trust in me — it’s crucial to my well being.

• Don’t be angry with me for long, and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your entertainment, and your friends. I have only you.

• Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when it’s speaking to me.

• Be aware that however you treat me, I’ll never forget it.

• Remember before you hit me that I have a beak that could easily crush the bones of your hand, but that I choose not to bite you.

• Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate, or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, or I’ve been in the cage too long.

• Take care of me when I get old; you too will get old.

• Go with me on the last journey. Never say "I can’t bear to watch it," or "Let it happen in my absence." Everything is easier for me if you are there. Remember that I love you. 

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PARROT OATH

1. Friends Of Feathers Bird Rescue would like to know if you've taken this oath.
2. If so, we will inscribe your name and / or your new bird's name and species here to encourage others to do the same.
3. Take this simple oath before you buy or adopt a bird:
4. 1. I promise to research thoroughly the species that I am interested in.
5. 2. I promise to be kind and gentle and never to strike my bird for any reason.
6. 3. I promise to learn about the health of my bird and to get medical attention should the need arise. I will make every effort to find a good recommended avian specialist and to have his or her number handy in case of emergency.
7. 4. I promise to devote the time each day that is needed to keep my bird happy.
8. 5. I promise to take the time to prepare the proper diet required for my bird and to take great care in keeping its food containers and cage super clean.
9. 6. I promise to house this bird in as large a flight or cage as my wallet and space will afford - and not to buy a bird until I can afford to supply proper housing.
10.  7. I promise to take the commitment of owning this bird seriously and to think hard about any changes that might be imminent in my lifestyle that would put me in the position of having to give up this bird. (marriage, travel, pregnancy, etc.).