Ask Lafeber

Should I get a bird?

Hello!
I’m currently a vet tech student and am also getting my bird specialisation at the moment. I’ve been wanting a bird for a while now. But I don’t know if it’s a good idea.

The only problem I have is that I might not be there for them a two days a week. Of course I will provide them a source of fresh water, enough food and enough for them to keep busy with. I was thinking about maybe a Cockatiel, Budgerigar or Ring-necked parakeet. But like I said I don’t know if it’s a good idea I’m not sure if it’s a good idea. I would keep two of them if I were to.

Does it sound like a good idea to get a bird or should I not consider it? Or maybe you have other suggestions? Please let me know if you could.

Greetings from Denise

Hi,

Birds can’t be left alone for even 2 days. We do not even recommend leaving a bird alone for 24 hours. They get into trouble. They spill or soil their water, and you come back to a very sick bird, or a dead bird. They have such a high metabolism, that small species can die from going without food for less than a day, a few hours in some cases. If your bird spills his food right after you leave, he’s not going to make it without food for 2 days. You would need someone to come in twice a day to feed and water the bird, turn lights on in the morning, off in the evening and make sure the temperature is OK. You can’t turn off AC or heat just because you won’t be there.

Being in school takes a lot of time, and you will have internships and extra hours to fill. Then you will be starting a career that might involve relocating. I would recommend waiting until you have graduated and taken a job so that you are settled and ready to care for a pet bird. Getting two is not a solution unless you just want birds you can look at. When two birds share a cage, they form a bond and lose interest in human companionship. Birds live for a very long time, so it is best to be patient and have your life settled before adding a bird.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda