June 25, 2021
Boarding criteria
I run a parrot boarding service. What testing protocol would you recommend for boarding birds safely. i.e., what diseases would you recommend screening for and which type of test … PCR etc.
Question:
Answer:
Hi Virginia,
There is no simple answer to this. There are a number of viruses that parrots can carry without exhibiting symptoms. A bird that has been a single bird in a household for years sounds like a safe bird to accept, however, this is the type scenario that can bring in something that spreads throughout the facility. With my experience working with parrots dating back to the mid-80’s, I have sadly witnessed deadly outbreaks of Chlamydiosis & Pacheco’s, as well as Polyoma sweeping through entire nurseries of handfeeding chicks. Ideally you would screen for all viruses that can be tested for, but not only can that get expensive, it has to be done in advance, to allow time for the results. And the accuracy of tests vary. Some are good for testing a symptomatic bird, but not a carrier. The best prevention is ample space between cages, disinfecting between cages, foot baths, a separate staff that only works in that facility, and the right kind of air filtration. If the boarding facility is part of a retail bird shop or breeding facility, the boarding facility should have separate ventilation. And this can actually be more for the resident birds than the boarders. An infected boarder that is shedding a disease can infect the birds in another part of the facility. All of that being said, this is all rarely done, and outbreaks are also rare. I’ve seen bird shops that put a boarder right next to birds for sale and Vet clinics that have a small room with staff going in and out all the time. It comes down to what clients are willing to pay for and go through to board their bird.
Thank you for asking Lafeber,
Brenda
