To begin with you might want to safeguard your house before bringing a bird home.
Think of your bird as a two year old, one that is adventurous and curious!
Non-Stick Cookware: Pans coated with non-stick surfaces, such as
Teflon (Polytetraflouethylene or PTFE), will cause a painful and quick death for your
birds. When overheated PTFE emits fumes that are odorless, invisible, and deadly.
Other products that may have PTFE are:
-Irons
-self-cleaning ovens
-Breadmakers
-Wafflers
-portable heaters
-stovetop burners
If you have an appliance that is non-stick, check with the manufacturor to verify that
it is not coated with PTFE. If you have any doubts at all, do not use it.
Roaming: Allowing your bird to roam is not a good idea. They are
easily kicked or stepped on. They also can become trapped in dangerous areas such
as under the refrigerator, stove or other appliances. If you happen to have a friend walk
in the possibility of your pet going out the door is to great, and to dangerous.
Cats, Dogs, and other pets: The saliva of dogs and cats are VERY
hazardous to your birds health. They can carry bacteria that will kill your bird
within hours without treatment. Even a small scratch can accomplish this. One quick
snap from your dog can kill your bird. Never take the chance of risking your birds
life around other animals.
Candles, Air Fresheners, Plug-ins: Basically anything with a
scent can kill your birds. They have a very delicate respiratory system and it is
imperative that you NEVER use these products with your bird in the house. There have
been numerous reports of avian deaths resulting from exposure to these.
Windows and Mirrors: When a bird sees something and he wants to
take a closer look, he will fly straight towards it not realizing that there is a pane of
glass in his path. He may head full force into the glass possibly breaking bones or
even killing himself.
Ceiling Fans: Many deaths and injuries have been reported of
birds flying into ceiling fans. When your bird is out make sure your fans are off!
Aquariums, Glasses, any uncovered source of water: Even a
drinking glass with water can cause drowning. Your bird may go to tip his head in it
for a drink, fall in and be unable to get out. Never leave uncovered sources of
water out if your bird is running free (which it shouldn't be!)
Halogen Lamps: These bulbs get very hot and can burn or even
catch your bird on fire if he gets to close. Your safest bet is to make sure you
have turned all these lights off if your bird is near.
Use your common sense when it concerns your pets. Birds love to chew on things,
such as extension cords, yarn (in which they can become entangled), and string. They
love to nest or explore small areas, like inside drawers, or in cupboards or bookshelves.
Look around your home critically and think about what could happen if your little
guy decides to explore. |
