FINE FEATHERED FRIENDS
What You Need to Know Before Adopting a Bird While we see a variety of pets and farm animals, including chickens and ducks, pet birds are one animal we don't
your hands thoroughly after handling them or any of their things. Their cages need to be cleaned regularly in a designated area that's not used for food preparation. Birds can also bite or scratch, so you’ll want to stay up to date on your tetanus shots.
see in the clinic. Birds are considered exotic pets, but an estimated 5 million households have at least one. Jan. 5 is National Bird Day, so we thought it would be a great time to feature our winged companions. Birds can make for affectionate and rewarding pets, but for first-time bird owners, there’s a lot to consider. First, make sure to choose your species carefully. Different species have different temperaments, needs, and life spans — some birds live 100 years or more — so make sure you know what you’re getting into before you adopt. Building a proper bond with your bird requires training them, and you’ll probably need some training, too. Birds carry germs that can cause illnesses in people, so it’s vital to always wash
Humans aren’t the only ones at risk. You’ve heard that curiosity killed the cat, but it’s killed quite a few unfortunate birds, too. Nonstick cookware, scented candles, air fresheners, and some plants can be fatal, so you’ll have some bird-proofing to do for when they roam outside of their cages. Birds are intelligent and social creatures, so they need stimulation and enrichment. If they don’t receive it, they can become loud, depressed, or destructive. Most birds love training and playing games with their humans, so give them plenty of attention. You can also get a variety of solo toys for your bird to occupy their time and burn off some of their energy.
Finally, birds need just as much medical attention as dogs and cats do. Watch out for signs of ill health, including ruffled or dirty feathers, sluggishness, runny eyes or beak, and abnormal breathing.
If you have a pet bird, we recommend you schedule regular checkups and sick visits with an exotic animal veterinarian. If you’re willing to take good care of your bird, it will also take good care of you with companionship, affection, and loyalty.
Clients Spreading the Word Thanks so much to these clients who referred new patients to us last month:
Peanut Butter Dog Doughnut
Tom Gore Cora Johnston
Inspired by SunnyDayFamily.com
Charla Meeks Kenzie Bosher Jessica McLaren Mike & Julie Knight Lisa Wilson
INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS
(The dough will not rise, so be sure each space is packed tightly.) 5. Bake for 14 minutes or until cooked thoroughly. 6. Let cool, then carefully remove doughnuts from pan. 7. Dip each doughnut in yogurt 8. Freeze for about 5 minutes, then serve to your pup!
1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
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1 cup flour 1 cup oats
Spray a doughnut pan with cooking spray and set aside.
1/3 cup coconut oil
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except the yogurt and mix until a dough forms. 3. Using your hands, press dough into doughnut pan. 4. Fill each doughnut cavity and press down firmly.
1/2 cup peanut butter
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2 eggs
Greek yogurt
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