Cheap Pet Insurance

June 29th, 2009 by Patrick Dell

Owning parrots as pets is increasing in popularity. Many people have become drawn to their ability to communicate, mimic, entertain, and show unconditional love. Making the choice to purchase a parrot companion is the easy part. Becoming educated about parrot needs, choosing a healthy bird from a reputable breeder, and lifelong commitment are the challenging parts. This article will help to aid in choosing a loving parrot friend and making parrot ownership a wonderfully rewarding experience.

When choosing a parrot breeder, quality of bird care is important. Healthy and happy parrots depend largely on the way they were reared. Depending on the species of parrot, feeding methods will vary. Hand rearing or feeding while handling the baby parrots is one way that breeders can teach early in the parrot’s life the importance of bonding with humans. Breeders should begin to take on the responsibility of weaning baby parrots at 10-12 weeks of age by implementing into their diet a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, soft foods, pellets, and seeds.

Cage care and size is also necessary to note. Parrot cages are the largest on the market, and they should be. Parrot breeders should now that parrots need to feel safe and at home in their cages. Some parrot owners choose to clip the wings of their parrots to limit their cage size or to allow their parrots to roam free. A dedicated parrot breeder will know the importance of keeping their parrots safe in a cage while unattended, not limiting their wing development. A good breeder will know that baby parrots need to have time to fledge, allowing time for their feathers to mature. Parrot breeders will know that this is something that young parrots need to aid in their growth, balance, development and overall happiness.

The benefits of choosing from a good breeder well outweigh the effort it may take to find the right one. Many breeders are considerably less expensive that pet stores. Additionally, when purchasing from a quality breeder, the chances of bird diseases or illness are much lower. Because they love what they do, many breeders take superb care of their parrots. When researching parrot breeders, make sure they allow you to view the breeding facilities, parrot cages, and food storage areas. Quality breeders will have no problem with that request, and may even offer first. It is important to note, some breeders are in the business strictly for financial reasons. Beware of breeders who will not allow you to view the facilities, have difficulty answering questions about specific care practices, and request high fees up front. A parrot is an investment. The purchase should be dealt with in a business-like manner. Contracts, agreements, and other paperwork should be involved before the purchase time.

Choosing a parrot as a pet is a big commitment. Doing the necessary research, knowing what to look for, and finding a reputable parrot breeder will ensure that the purchase of a new parrot companion will be a rewarding experience. Finding the right parrot breeder will allow the future owner to feel confident in the fact that they are purchasing a happy, healthy well-adjusted feathered friend.

In addition to purchasing a parrot from a parrot breeder to aid the foundation of the parrot/owner relationship, you will also help to enrich the lives of wild parrots by assisting in the preserving of their species, habitat, and culture.