Are you considering buying a parrot for a family member or friend? Don’t do it!
Committing to a pet is a choice that the person has to make for themselves. A person might love parrots, but they could never realistically own one for various reasons. Birds typically have very long lifespans and not everyone can commit to that. It is also not a good idea to give a young parrot to an older individual as the bird could potentially outlive its owner. Owning a pet also means being able to financially support the bird every month.
There is the ongoing cost of food (pellets, vegetables, and fruit) and toys to take into consideration. There is also always the potential for an unexpected avian vet bill. You may not know the other person’s personal finances and if they can afford to have a pet parrot. It is also not a good idea to get a pet for your child unless you as the parent are willing to look after the parrot in the event that your child isn’t home or loses interest in the bird. Finally (and arguably the most important point), pets are not objects to be given as gifts. They are living sentient creatures and deserve to be treated as such. Please do not be a part of the reason why pets are seen as disposable objects.
Anya Marais, a co-founder of Cheeky Beaks, has this to say about the subject:
“Sammy [my Green Cheek Conure was my first bird and was a birthday gift.
There were many negative and positive aspects to this birthday gift.
Negatives: – I wasn’t a bird person at all. – I had no knowledge on his species or parrots. – He took up more time than our 2 dogs. This was a big adjustment. – He needed more attention than anyone in our family could’ve prepared for. -He was a bigger commitment in terms of lifespan than I thought. Green Cheeks can live until 30 years. It’s a long term ‘gift’.
Positives: – He helped me develop a love for parrots and the routine he ‘forced’ into my life helped work through some depression I faced in 2019. – Without him I wouldn’t have started rescuing birds and that would’ve meant many birds wouldn’t have gotten homes in 2019/2020. If I didn’t have him, I wouldn’t have helped to start Cheeky Beaks. – He became a very beloved pet and has brought me so much happiness already.”
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