Protecting Your Pet: Birds As Pets

Matisse - a Sun Conure - is the real thing.

Bill Collins, Alex and Matisse's dad: "Matisse is the best because he's like a little security gate Nobody can come in the backyard. That feels good."

Alex - a chatter box - is a Double Yellow-Headed Amazon.

Bill Collins: "He's like sedated and easy going and matter of fact."

Like all pets - birds are a huge responsibility. Some live 100 years - so chances are they'll outlive you.

Dr. Paula Engles from Wiles Road Animal Hospital: "This particular bird we'll have to be queath to somebody."

When it comes to care vets say nutrition is number one.

Dr. Paula Engles: "Bozo is actually a great example of very good health -- He's a bird on a very good diet."

It consists of special pellets - fruits and vegetables.

Dr. Paula Engles: "If they don't get their proper vitamins and minerals, sometimes they can even develop liver disease."

Sleep is crucial - about 10 hours a day is required.

Dr. Paula Engles: "If they are awake for too long, their immune system starts to go down because they are experiencing stress."

Like all animals - their nature is to hide illness - they're masters at it.

Look for - appetite loss - stays at bottom of the cage - dull coat - discharge or redness around the eyes or nose.

Bill Collins: "They're kind of very quiet. They're not preening themselves and they are just sitting still -- so you know something is wrong."

In that case get them to the vet immediately. Annual checkups are also critical.

Bill Collins: "They mimic you. That is the best thing and then you realize you can teach them all sorts of tricks."

Like any pet - our fine feathered friends need lots of TLC.

Bill Collins: "They don't give you a handshake. They put their beak up to you. They cuddle, they cuddle. They are very affectionate."

Contact: mmitzel@wsvn.com