Proposed changes to the Lacey Act and USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service pose serious challenges to parrot owners and rescues by making it more difficult to acquire necessary care.

Assessing the health and overall well-being of any animal can be tricky. The Five Domains model is a widely used tool for evaluating the welfare of an animal or group of animals that focuses on how the interaction of factors like diet, health, behavioral outlets, and environment can influence mental well-being.  

It's important to know what the current local and federal laws require of you in terms of care and housing of your feathered friends. While laws differ considerably by area, we can help you understand how to read these statutes and how laws are enacted or amended.

Parrots are highly intelligent birds who are prone to behavioral issues when bored. A parrot's mental state can have a profound effect on their overall health. Rather than entertainment, however, what they need is enrichment: an environment with a variety of interesting objects to manipulate, positive social interaction, and opportunities to exercise!

While Avian Flu is one of the more commonly known diseases to affect parrots, there are several others that owners need to watch for. Psittacosis, Avian polyomavirus (APV), and Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) are serious illnesses that require prompt treatment and/or quarantine of affected birds. Regular veterinary care and home disease testing can help with early detection.

Parrots are intelligent companions who provide many benefits to their owners and others. Parrots can act as emotional support animals for individuals or in Veteran outreach programs. Some parrots have even saved lives by alerting their owners to dangers at home!