Warning To ALL (Particularly Parronts of Greys)

[Grey_Moon]

Hi everyone,

Most of you know what's going on with Jacko right now, and your positive thoughts n energy are much appreciated.

I just wanted to share a bit of advice particularly to those of you with greys like myself.

First thing being that, NEVER EVER trust a vet to keep your bird in good health by themselves---they can only do so much. Keep an eye on your bird, know general signs of illness and DO NOT wait 'a couple days to see if things get better' you'll regret it. Especially if your bird ends up dying and it would have been saved if only if had been brought in 'a couple days' earlier.

Second, ALWAYS read test results, see x-rays and research medications and alternative treatments! Be proactive! You may see things the vet missed, and you need to be fully on-board and understanding about any condition or illness that your bird is dealing with, NOT a helpless passenger who simply listens to the good doctor and administers medication as told.

Third, and this is a warning for those of you with greys in your life.
I had noticed some time ago, a slight bluish discoloration in the skin around Jacko's eyes. This change in greys is OFTEN LINKED TO HEART DISEASE/CIRCULATION ISSUES/OXYGEN ISSUES. This is thought to be because of low blood oxygen due to the reduced capability of blood flow--resulting in bluish discolouration---like when you're very cold your lips go blue.

I altered her diet/care to help with this and the colouration disappeared---but not in time to avoid this apparent calcification.

[marie83]

Very wise words.
I wish everyone cared about their pets the way you do, the little signs are all too easy to miss unless you look closely.

[AlbertaAviary]

I send my good wishes to Jacko <3

[liz]

Never let anyone including your vet take your pet out of your sight. If it can't be done in front of you then it does not need done.

I never let my dogs walk on the floor at a vet clinic. I always clean the exam table off myself just incase they did not. My birds don't get to walk out of their carrier until I make sure everything is clean.

[marie83]

[quote="liz"]Never let anyone including your vet take your pet out of your sight. If it can't be done in front of you then it does not need done.

[quote]

To me that seems a little extreme, alot of vets wont perform certain procedures in front of owners for health and safety reasons and because alot of owners could get upset/distract the vet putting the animal at risk.