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Birds--General/need advice on where to find a bird vet

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Question
Hi Chrys,
Can you advise me on finding an avian Veterinarian in the greater Boston area?  One of our parakeets has had diarrhea for several weeks--the pet shop suggested Oats and Groats, but she still seems alittle sick.  Also have you ever seen a bird that seems wobbley on her feet, not landing accurately on ledges, etc that she previously landed on with ease?  She might be dizzy, and she seems weak.  Annette

Answer
Hi, Annette,

The only way I can help is by referring you to www.aav.org.  If you can't find an avian vet close to you on this website, try Goggling "avian veterinarians" for other possible resources to help you locate one.  You might also try calling some local vets to see if they can refer you.  Also try locating other parrot breeders in your area for possible referrals (look in your telephone book or classified ads).  Some pet shops might also have avian vet referrals.  

Most parrots I've seen with the symptoms you describe are losing weight and have some type of intestinal/digestive bacterial, viral or fungal problem going on.  There are also other medical reasons why your bird is showing these symptoms.  Best bet is to have the bird seen ASAP.  When ill, birds can go down very quickly...as in hours or days.  It's very important you find an avian vet quickly.

Chrys

Birds--General

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Chrys Meatyard

Expertise

I`ve been raising/breeding/handfeeding/selling parrots for over 20 years (parakeets/budgies, cockatiels, 6 subspecies of conures, parrotlets, amazons, lovebirds, etc.). I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England. I can provide advice in raising healthy birds, handfeeding/weaning babies, some health problems (although I'm NOT an avian veterinarian), nail/beak/wing clipping, general husbandry, etc. I also have experience with racing/showing homing pigeons. I cannot diagnose specific illness over this website. If you suspect your bird is ill or if you have an emergency, contact an avian veterinarian or emergency pet clinic ASAP.

Experience

Experience: Over 20 years raising parrots and over 13 years raising pigeons. Organizations: Currently, American Racing Pigeon Union and American Federation of Aviculture. Prior member Miami Valley Bird Club, Southern Ohio Pigeon Association, National Cockatiel Society, Miami Valley Sportsman's Club, others. Publications: Monthly newsletters of bird clubs.

Publications
I've been published in "Budgies" and "Cockatiels" offered by Bow Tie Productions, and have written avian articles for publication in England.

Education/Credentials
American Federation of Aviculture, completed Level I course, Fundamentals of Aviculture. Keeping/breeding parrots and other birds for over 20 years.

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