	AllExperts > Parrots
	Search

About Rev. Dr. S.August Abbott
Expertise
Certified Avian Specialist; Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council member; Own animal rescue org; National Wildlife habitat #66378; bird care, nutrition & behavior consultant; International Assoc. of Animal Behavior Consultants Associate; National Wildlife Federation Leaders Club member; published bird care, info and behavior articles and guides. Ongoing education in exotic bird behavior and nutrition I can answer behavioral, nutritional, environmental, characteristic/personality questions as well as general health and health care. No animal emergency can ever be addressed on the internet. We cannot see your animal, perform an examination, provide necessary care or medication. Please value your companion for the priceless, living creature they are; not for what you might have paid for them.

Experience
Certified Avian Specialist. For more than 30 years I've worked with veterinarians, protective facilities, nature centers, preserves and on my own in providing care and education with regard to multiple animal species, including raptors (hawks, kestrals, owls, etc) and marsupials. In recent years I've focused on parrots, usually rescued from abusive or less than ideal situations and helping educate owners as to proper care. Expert in behavior studies and modification of problem behavior.

Organizations
4AnimalCare is the organization I run as an animal ministry; World Wildlife Association, Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, National Wildlife Federation Leaders Club and more

Publications
Bird Talk Magazine articles about rescued and problem macaws.

Education/Credentials
Doctorate, Ordained Minister

You are here: Experts > Animals/Pets > Pet Birds > Parrots > stressed out lovebird

Parrots - stressed out lovebird

Expert: Rev. Dr. S.August Abbott - 10/28/2009

Question
I usually take my lovebird in the bathroom when I take a shower because when I am home he doesn't like to be away for even a few minutes. This time he jumped in my hair when it was covered in soap and I rinsed him off quickly (he goes under the shower by himself sometimes); he was seemingly upset that I got him wet because it wasn't his choice. I kept him warm and helped him dry off, while he was drying off he pooped on me several times. I assume that meant that I had stressed him. Later this evening he is perky but has a runny nose. I am extremely concerned that I stressed him out too much and don't know what I can do for him, I am worried that I made him sick by rinsing him off or he got cold even though I did everything I could to keep him warm. Is this just a stress response or should I take him to see a vet?

Many thanks,
Jen

Answer
It sounds like some water might have gotten into his nares. You did the right thing in keeping him dry and warm afterwards and I suggest you keep it up.

Wipe his nares to keep them clear and be sure he continues to eat as usual. Monitor his droppings as well. Expect to see some watery ones, but they should improve.

If you notice his breathing becomes labored or you hear any difficulty, sounds of clicking as he breathes or color to the discharge - then yes, get him seen as soon as possible. Also, of course, if he becomes overly tired, lethargic or prefers to stay at the bottom of the cage.

Otherwise, expect this to be resolved by tomorrow. If it's not, then yes, time for a vet visit.

Now, when it comes to sharing a shower with your bird it's a great idea - but little accidents like this can happen. You might want to consider a shower perch with suction cups for him - available at most pet stores and online. I find they are very well received by the birds - and actually appreciated.

Good luck,

Add to this Answer Ask a Question