Ask Lafeber

Dangerous to work near other parrots?

Hello,

How dangerous would it be for my pet parrots at home if I were to work at a store that sells parrots (disease/illness transmission wise)? I wouldn’t be working in direct contact with them on a daily basis as I’d be working in the office, but may have to interact with the store birds from time to time.

Would I need to wash my clothes after work every day? Would my parrots be at risk riding in my car for a vet visit? Or am I being overly paranoid? I just don’t want to put them in any risk of getting ill.

Thank you

Hi Jenny,

Many bird owners also work around birds. In general it isn’t a concern. It is a good idea to wash up well before you leave your job, and to wash up and change clothes before handling your own birds. Generally diseases aren’t spread that easily, but it depends on what you are dealing with. If there was a disease outbreak where you work, you might need to have foot baths at your home, the appropriate disinfectants and plan to change & wash clothes when you get home, and take a shower before handling your own birds. As far as the vehicle, again, shouldn’t be a concern unless there was a serious viral outbreak at your job.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda