Dealing with Emergencies and Disasters
If there is an emergency, it’s vital to ensure the welfare of your feathered friend. Most of the time, disasters aren’t planned ahead. Hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, floods – all of these events can cause a major upset and force people and their pets from their homes without warning. It’s critical that you have everything you need in case you need to treat your parrot for wounds, or to remove them safely and quickly from your home.
Assembling a Disaster Kit
According to BirdSupplies.com, some inclusions in your disaster kit should be:
Pre-assembled carriers for each bird in your home. Also consider labeling them with the parrot’s name(s), your name and contact information, and your veterinarian’s phone number. You can also write “Reward if Returned to Owner” to help get your beloved parrot back if you become separated.
A week’s worth of pellets.
Bottled water.
Paper towels.
First aid kit, including cornstarch to stop bleeding and medical tape.
A towel.
A contact card with your parrot’s photo, leg and band numbers, species information, age if known, your information, and your veterinary information.
Bird Harnesses.
Medications if your parrot is currently taking any.
Bowls for food and water.
A laminated copy of your parrot’s latest veterinary records.
Store all of your materials in a rubber tub with a secured lid close by to your pet in an easily-accessible area.
Research Where You Could Go in Advance
During the time of an emergency, it’s crucial to have a plan, as stress and panic can run high. Consider researching where you can bring your parrot in advance if you must vacate your home. Is there a shelter nearby you can bring them? Will a friend out-of-state watch and care for them if you cannot safely return home? Are there hotels or motels nearby that allow pets?
All of these things should be thought about and decided upon in advance. That way, you can focus on getting your family (both human and fur/feathered) out of the area to a safe location.
It’s always better to be safe and prepared than to be sorry! Parrots are not pets that are widely accepted in areas that may allow domesticated animals like cats and dogs. Prepare ahead of time so you have the greatest chance of staying together, and have the supplies you’ll need to effectively care for them.
Additional Resources:
Parrotparrot.com – Prepare for Emergencies Part I and Part II
PetHelpful.com - How to Be Prepared for Emergencies With Your Parrot
Copyrighted. Blog posts may be used as guidelines for the proper care of your parrot. Not intended for medical or legal advice. Please consult with a licensed avian veterinarian regarding the medical care and wellbeing of your exotic pets.