I took my parrot in to see Dr. Fern Van Zant at For the Birds Clinic in San Jose for a minor problem when our usual vet was gone on vacation. I have to say, I do not agree with her theories for avian care and found her approach to be harsh and even militant.
I was amazed to discover that she does not approve of birds being petted by their owners and claims that birds interpret physical contact as mating behavior. I was admonished for petting my bird and being affectionate with him. When I asked how I was supposed have a relationship with my pet, I was told to “find some other way of interacting with your bird”. I also had to sit through a very intense sales pitch for Harrison’s avian food products, which of course are readily available in the front lobby.
I have to say that I feel this advice is “for the birds”. Birds, like all creatures, need affection, companionship and attention. To deprive a bird of these basic staples of life is to treat an affectionate creature like a household decoration. When we take an exotic animal from his natural environment, we become responsible for providing for his basic needs, and that includes affection.
For the birds really ruffled my feathers!!
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