Hello, I have a 25 yr old yellownape amazon parrot. About 10 years ago he fell and broke his leg when it hit the lip of his cage. After a couple surgeries, the break was eventually repaired by a metal plate in his leg. He started having trouble weight bearing About a week ago so we took him back to the vet. He was seen by the same doctor that had did the surgery. Imaging of his leg was done and it turns out his bone in his leg is deteriorating again. While the leg hasn’t fractured again yet, it will soon. It seems like the most likely reason is either infection or cancer. We are waiting for a test to confirm the diagnosis. That leaves our options with amputation of the leg or euthanasia. The leg is broken at his femur so it will be a full amputation if that is the route we choose.
I have two questions:
1. Has anyone here had a larger bodied parrot/bird that has broken their leg? If so, did you amputate or put the bird down?
2. If you amputated, how is your birds quality of life? Is the bird having trouble having a good life? Would you do it again? Do you regret your decision?
I am working with a qualified avian vet. I am in the process of getting second and third opinions from other vets. What I am looking for here is first hand experience with what I am going through!! I am hoping to get information as well from people who have been in the same place I am. I am trying to make an informed decision that is best for the bird. Currently he’s doing pretty well but I also am under no illusions that this is a bad situation.