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Birds as pets have very special needs

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Truthfully, birds scare me a little (maybe I shouldn't have watched The Birds as a kid), but even I have learned to live peacefully with my family's two parrots and cockatoo now that I know more about them. Birds can be a wonderful addition to your home; however, it's important for bird owners to know that they are a much different pet than a dog or a cat. In fact, there are many common hazards in your house that, while not affecting your other pets, can be extremely dangerous for birds. If you are thinking of bringing a bird into your home, here are four major hazards to consider in order to make your home safe for your new feathered friend.

Extreme Temperatures

Living in New England, the weather can be all over the place - freezing cold and snowing one day and warm enough for shorts the next. For birds, these kinds of temperature extremes can be dangerous. Be sure to keep your bird's cage out of direct sunlight and away from open windows, fans, and air conditioners. Remember that the outdoors can be extremely dangerous for your bird. Always keep his wings trimmed and be careful about open windows and doors. Birds can easily chew through things, so a flimsy window screen isn't going to stop them for very long. Make sure all your screens are strong and secure and always supervise birds when they are out of their cages.

Toxic Fumes

Birds have very sensitive respiratory tracts and, as a result, many things can be toxic to them. The fumes from cigarette smoke, scented candles, paint, cleaning products, and even room spray can all be very dangerous for your pet bird. Fumes from Teflon pans and self-cleaning ovens are especially toxic and are often fatal. If you are doing a lot of cleaning or painting in your house, find somewhere else for your bird to be temporarily so he is safe from the fumes.

Other Pets

One of the most dangerous things in your home for a bird is other animals, and that includes other birds - especially if one bird is much larger than the other. No matter how well you think your pets get along, always supervise your bird when out of his cage with other animals around. If you have a cat, it's important to make sure that your cat can't hurt your bird through the cage or accidentally knock it over.

Chewing on Wires

Birds have powerful beaks that can do a lot of damage to your house. It's important to make sure your bird is kept in a place where he does not have access to power cords as his chewing could lead to burns or even electrocution. Keep this in mind throughout the year, as well - especially if you are hanging Christmas lights. Birds are very curious and can get into trouble as soon as your back is turned, so it's important to keep dangerous cords out of their reach.

Having a bird in your home is much like having a toddler. They require a lot of attention and a lot of supervision. If you're thinking of adding a bird to your family, be sure to research that bird's specific needs before bringing it into your home. Remember that many birds can live as long as humans, but only if you care for them properly. By being mindful of these common hazards, you can provide your bird with a safe and happy home for many years to come!

Alaina Goodnough is the Promotions Coordinator at Cocheco Valley Humane Society in Dover, NH. She lives in Sanford, ME with two parrots, a cockatoo, two cats, a bearded dragon, and two dachshunds. She can be reached at CVHS at devassist@cvhsonline.org. To learn more about Cocheco Valley Humane Society, go towww.cvhsonline.org or call 603-749-5322.

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