Are You Ready for a Pet Bird?
So, you think you want a pet bird? Maybe you’ve watched a few YouTube videos and think having one could be fun. Perhaps a friend has a bird you love to play with when you visit. No matter what your reasons, it’s important to know what you’d be getting into if you adopted a feathered friend.
The Good Stuff
- They make friendly pets. We all want pets that love us and want to spend time with us. While not exactly like dogs or cats, birds can interact and bond with their owners. Maybe they won’t play fetch or get you the morning paper, but you’ll have companionship (and a Netflix binging buddy, too).
- They have long lifespans. Creatures like hamsters and rats make good pets, but they only live for a few years. Birds, depending on their type and how well you care for them, can live for decades, some for 50 years or longer. If you have trouble saying goodbye to a pet, this is something to keep in mind.
- They’re good for your mental health. Nothing beats coming home from a long day at work just to hear your pet bird sing or speak, even if it’s something random. Owning a bird also gives you the opportunity to socialize with other bird owners, be it in your home or at special events.
The Bad Stuff
- You must be careful about what you wear. Many potential bird owners don’t think about this, but it’s important. Birds love shiny things, and if you choose to wear something that will grab their attention, you put yourself, your pet, and your possessions at risk. Shirts with buttons can also suffer damage from a curious bird.
- Say “goodbye” to a quiet home. People who like calm, silent environments shouldn’t adopt a bird. Birds can be loud – very loud. They can make noise in the middle of the night, when you least expect it, and when you could do without it. They can sing, chirp, and scream. If they can talk, they’ll say the same things repeatedly.
- Healthcare is a bit more involved. When they need to go to a vet, it can’t be just any vet – some vets have no experience with birds. Your neighbor or best friend may not know how to look after them while you’re on vacation, so tracking down a competent, qualified sitter is necessary.
