Newbie with a blueheaded pionus

[sighthoundlover]

I am new to the forum and to owning parrots although I've had lots of interaction with parrots in pet stores, etc. I have done an enormous amount of research so I am informed as to the proper care of parrots, and have bought everything a parrot would want/need for my new bird. My bird is a blueheaded pionus named Kukla and he is about 4 months old. I just brought him home 3 hours ago and placed him in his large cage. He is still a baby and seems to be very sleepy!!! I don't know if this is because he's catching up on sleep due to stress of being transported to and from the bird show or what. I'm thinking that's what it is but am not entirely sure. I put him in his cage and then left him alone to sleep for about 2 1/2 hours. He seemed a little nervous/frightened when I took him from the cage although he came readily but occassionally wanted to bite a little. When I pet his head and neck he closes his eyes and calms down but may also decide to nip a little. In the cage he is not really on sure footing so I'm hoping he'll get used to things fairly soon. He also does not know how to step up yet. I would like advice on how fast/slow to go in forming a relationship and sort of a 1,2,3 on the proper order of what to do - is that possible/crazy? I have 2 dogs also and the Italian Greyhound is already jealous so would appreciate any advice on how to handle that appropriately. Sorry for all the dumb questions!!! i just want to do everything right for the bird.

[liz]

He sounds like a loving little baby. Keep in mind that you took him from the only family he knows.
You have to let him know that he is safe and loved in your flock.

Is he still sleeping a lot? If you think this is a problem or if he shows other signs take him to the vet.

All of our babys need to go to the vet at least once a year for a regular check up.

[sighthoundlover]

Actually, I noticed the day after I got him home that he had discharge coming from his nostrils. I took him to a Certified avian vet and lo and behold he has a respiratory infection. I'm administering nose drops and oral antibiotics twice a day. I also put him in a smaller age at the recommendation of the vet (until he is about 6 - 8 mos) and he seems a lot better and more active already. It certainly has not affected his appetite!!