Avian Pediatrics

Veterinary continuing education is filled with discussions surrounding an infinite variety of illnesses and appropriate medical approaches for such. Less time appears to be spent on basic husbandry and veterinary participation in the care of “normal” animals. Increasing numbers of exotic pets presented to veterinarians have illustrated the tremendous need for information regarding the basic husbandry of exotic animals being kept as pets. Pet birds probably comprise the largest group of exotic pets. Years ago most parrots, macaws, cockatoos, etc. were imported as adults or juveniles. With these birds came problems associated with the stress and crowding experienced by the birds during quarantine. Now that importation no longer exists most birds supplied to the pet trade are bred within the U.S. and sold at the consumer level as babies. A large proportion of individuals acquiring these babies is grossly under-educated and inexperienced in caring for them. To add to the complexity, little information has been disseminated to owners or to veterinarians on proper handfeeding and weaning practices ...