Feeding Your Bird

Making the decision to adopt or purchase a bird can be an overwhelming and exciting decision. And one of the first things you should consider is what to feed your bird.

As a veterinary practice, we witness many health problems in birds that could be avoided if they only had a proper diet. In fact, malnutrition is one of the most common problems we witness in birds. We educate our clients on a daily basis about the importance of a proper diet. Your bird may enjoy table food, and you may get satisfaction from this, but in the long run you are creating future health issues for your feathered friend.

Birds in the wild eat a high caloric diet that includes food such as fruit, nuts and seeds, but they also burn thousands of calories a day flying. On the other hand, birds in captivity spend a majority of their time in their cages and rarely fly. They require a diet that is lower in fat and gives the proper amount of calories.  Additionally, it is nearly impossible to mimic the native diet using the foods available to us.

Birds don't instinctively know what to eat in order to have good nutrition. Most birds, given the choice will not pick a good diet. They usually eat what tastes best, which typically ends up being something high in fat and bad for their health. They're similar to humans; we often will choose a donut over carrots to get immediate satisfaction. You must train your bird to eat a healthful diet.

We witness many clients with new birds that are on a strictly seed diet. This is something we discourage. We highly recommend feeding birds a diet that consists of mainly pellets, and then a smaller percentage of grains, fruits, and veggies.

Here is a breakdown:

Smaller birds--cockatiels, love birds, parrotlets, parakeets, budgies, etc.
50% of diet should be pellets
30-40% of diet should be grains
10% of diet should be fruits and veggies

Larger birds--macaws, cockatoos, amazons, etc.
50-75% of diet should be pellets
10-20% of diet should be grains
20-30% of diet should be fruits and veggies

Dr. Folland's Double yellow-headed Amazon eats a diet of Lafeber Nutri-Berries and Harrison's bird pellets.

Good foods for birds:

Grains--spelt, oat groats, barley, steel cut oats, wheatberry, buckwheat, millet, flax seed, chia seed, hemp seed

Veggies--jalepeno peppers, bell peppers, banana peppers, Serrano peppers, yams, sweet potatoes, broccoli, squash, zucchini, cucumber, pumpkin, bean sprouts, snow peas, snap peas, kale, collard or mustard greens, turnip greens, chard, endive, dill parsley, basil, chives, cilantro.

Fruits--blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, figs, kiwi, pomegranate, persimmons, mango, lychee, cactus fruit, passion fruit

Foods NOT recommended for birds:

• Flour based foods (bread, tortillas, cookies, crackers, etc.)
• Fried foods, animal meats, chicken bones, dairy products
• Foods sweetened with natural or artificial sweeteners
• Dried fruits, fruit juice, grapes, bananas, citrus fruits
• Nuts, raw beans, and any type of spinach

Foraging is very important for a bird's behavioral and physical health. Whenever possible, find creative ways to help your bird forage. There are foraging kits available to aid in hiding food from your bird.

Tips for switching from seeds to pellets (and other healthful foods)

*We recommend when changing your bird's diet that you consult with one of our avian veterinarians prior to making the change. An abrupt change in diet can lead to emaciation in death in some birds. Be sure to monitor droppings and weigh your bird frequently.*

• Eat healthful foods in front of your bird and then offer the food as you eat. Start adding new foods to the old diet
• Diminish old diet by giving 50% old diet and 50% new diet; then reduce
• Use hunt and peck method by placing new food on a hard surface and picking it up and dropping it, so that your bird will start investigating
• Use bounce, hunt, and peck method by placing food on a hard surface and tap the surface so that food bounces up and down. The "peck drive" helps them try out the new food. 

We want both you and your bird to be happy and healthy! And a good diet is the perfect place to start. Feeding your bird the best diet possible is what we strive for!

For more extensive information about your bird's well-being and diet, schedule a visit with one of our avian veterinarians.
   

World Pet Memorial Day

What do you remember most about your pet? The way he or she looked at you, begging for a treat? Or how about that time he or she jumped on your nice couch with dirty paws?

Let's take time today to remember all the pets that have touched our lives, whether they are alive or have passed. We all have stories about our pets, and memories that last forever.

Here is a story of remembrance:

Dr. Folland's daughter once had a cat that was constantly aware of her needs. Her name was Amber and she always knew when to cheer up his daughter. When the girl would have a bad day, Amber would be there to comfort her. She would curl up next to her and purr softly in her bed. This kitty was the ultimate teddy bear, and she didn't mind being held and stroked on the head. It didn't matter where Amber was--whether inside or out--when her name was called, she immediately found her owner. The world for Dr. Folland's daughter would not be the same if Amber wasn't by her side. Amber lived a good, long life with lots of mouse hunting and long naps in the sun. When she was close to 20, she developed kidney problems and the decision was made have her euthanized. This tore his daughter apart, but she knew it was the best option for Amber.

Spend World Pet Memorial Day reminiscing about your furry, scaled and feathered loved ones. It would be a good idea to write down your memories so you don't forget. Despite what some may say, our pets are family and big parts of our lives. They are there when we go on hikes and walks, when we are sick, have a bad day, get home from work every day and when we just need a friend.

May we always remember how special our pet are!

Yard Sale for Alzheimer's Association

We are having a yard sale for the Alzheimer's Association to raise money for their cause on June 10, 2017 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Please bring cash or check, and be ready to browse the sale. A representative from the Alzheimer's Association will be available if you have any questions.

Come support a worthy cause! Alzheimer's effects millions of people, including the families of those who have the disease. Our technician, Audrey, recently had a mother who passed away from Alzheimer's. She has volunteered for the Alzheimer's Association since her mother was diagnosed. We are so proud of Audrey!

Where:
86 N 70 W Centerville
Behind the Maverick on Main

When: Saturday, June 10, 2017

Time: 8 a.m.- 1 p.m.

See you at the yard sale for the Alzheimer's Association!!

Your pets need to be prepared for an emergency

We've all heard the importance of being prepared in the event of a disaster, whether it be an earthquake or a house fire. But have you considered that your pets need to be prepared for an emergency as well?

National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day was on May 13, and we thought discussing your pet's safety in an emergency would be a good way to celebrate this holiday.

There are many of us who don't realize how important it is to be prepared for a disaster and have a plan; including a plan for our beloved pets.

Here are some useful ideas for pet emergency preparedness:

Make sure your pet has proper identification. Your address, phone number, pet's name and vet's phone number are important things to have on ID tags. Having your pet microchipped is ideal.

Assemble a pet emergency kit. Include these items:

Pet food
Bottled water
Food/water dishes
Medications
Cat litter/pan/scoop
Garbage/poop bags
Manual can opener
First aid kit
Leashes/collars/harnesses
Pet carrier/cage
Blanket
Toys
Bed
Current vaccine records and medical history




Arrange shelter for your pet beforehand. Most emergency shelters do not allow pets due to public health reasons. Make a list of possible boarding facilities and shelters (some animal shelters allow temporary care in an emergency, but should be considered as a last resort) and include phone numbers and addresses. Create a list of motels and hotels that allow pets in advance. Also, find a family member or friend outside your immediate area who would be willing to foster your pet if needed.

No one can determine when a disaster may strike. Be aware of your geographical area so you may anticipate disaster and plan accordingly. If you are not safe in the event of an emergency, neither is your pet. Your pet is a family member and needs to be protected if something bad happens. Take proper precautions as we've mentioned and always BE PREPARED!









For more detailed information about pet emergency preparedness, visit these helpful sites:

Ready
Red Cross
ASPCA *this site provides important tips for birds, reptiles and small animals*

Shelter Pets Need Your Love

April 30 was National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, and we at Parrish Creek want to share the importance of pet adoption.

There are thousands of pets around Utah that are in need of forever homes. While purchasing from a breeder may sound enticing, adopting a shelter pet may be the best decision you will ever make. There are so many pets willing to offer their love to you. They are often vaccinated, spayed/neutered, and potty trained. Most shelter pets have been abandoned and are in need of a loving owner. In our experience, shelter pets have made some of the most loyal companions.

Courtney, our receptionist, believes highly in pet adoption and has adopted several dogs in her lifetime.

Members of Courtney's family. L to R: Rowdy, Anna, and Walter.

"I’m a huge advocate for adopting a 'shelter pet' because of so many reasons.  The first and most important reason is because a shelter dog is as deserving of the comfort and consistency of a forever home as any new puppy that came from a breeder. A shelter pet is really just a label. And that label doesn’t describe the personality and character of the animal.  I have three dogs. Two of them were adopted from a rescue center and one from an owner release. I can’t imagine my life without my three furry kids. They add so much love and laughter to my family. The fact that they were spayed and/or neutered, housebroken and somewhat trained when we crossed paths was a perk! The shelter is a stressful environment for any dog and just one day in a shelter is too long. The sooner you can rescue a dog from any shelter especially a high kill shelter the better.  Your 'shelter dog' will thank you with lots of kisses and unconditional love. I know mine do."

As we celebrate Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, let's remember our furry friends in shelters and the love they deserve.

Fundraising Event. We Need Your Help!

Winter is over, which means spring cleaning is in full swing. Why not donate all your precious junk to a good cause? Parrish Creek is hosting a fundraising yard sale in June, and all proceeds go to the Alzheimer’s Association. This is a special cause, as one of our technicians, Audrey, has a mother who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. It is a struggle, not only for the one affected, but the family involved. Audrey has been nothing short of proactive about raising money to find a cure for this heartbreaking disease.

Mission of Alzheimer’s Association:  To eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

We are collecting donations May 8-29, which can be dropped off at our clinic during business hours (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.). Your donations would be much appreciated! Please refrain from donating large items such as furniture, appliances, electronics, bicycles, equipment, etc.

Examples of items we will accept:

Clothing/shoes

Small appliances/electronics/computers (must work)

Books/games/toys

CDs/records/DVDs

Home furnishings

Kitchenware

Tools

Animal cages/supplies

Trinkets

Outdoor recreational equipment

More information about yard sale:

When: Saturday, June 10, 2017

Time: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Parrish Creek Veterinary Clinic parking lot

86 N 70

Centerville, UT 84014

Get the Right Dog for You!

Have you ever passed someone on the street with their dog and instantly become dog hungry? The cure is simple. Go get yourself a dog! But then you wonder, where do I start and what type of dog should I get?

People searching for a dog often make the mistake of purchasing/adopting the wrong breed for their lifestyles. We’ve often encountered clients who obtained a dog and then realized they can’t give it what it needs.

There was a client who adopted a Border Collie and had the best intentions, but lived in a small apartment and was absent from home a majority of the day. The dog spent most of its time in a kennel—which is not ideal for Border Collies, who require several miles of exercise every day. Eventually the owner had to find another person to take care of the dog.

You can avoid mistakes like this simply by doing your research. There are several things to consider when bringing a new family member into your home.

Is the breed good with children?

Some breeds of dog are not suitable for young children. If you have children, don’t pick a breed that may possibly bite them. Chow chows are one example of dogs who don't work well with children.

Health problems

Certain breeds of dogs are susceptible to different types of illnesses. For example, Pugs tend to have respiratory issues, while Standard Poodles are prone to ear infections.

Exercise demands

Some larger dogs, such as Australian Shepherds, require exercise every day. If you work outside the home and don’t have time for much exercise each day, a small breed of dog would be perfect for your situation.

Are living areas (apartments, homes, townhomes) suitable for the specific breed?

Some apartment complexes have different guidelines for dogs living in the apartments. Make sure you know what your landlord requires before obtaining a dog.  

Work schedule

Some dogs require more time than others. Make sure if you work that your dog’s needs are met.

Arranging boarding when out of town

Dogs still need attention when you go on vacation. Arrange proper boarding before you leave. This can be with a pet sitter or friend, or a professional boarding facility.

Costs of food

Dogs need to eat. Add dog food and treats to your budget.

Veterinary care

We recommend when you first get your dog that you set aside money or an account for veterinary expenses. It is likely your dog will get sick and need to visit the vet sometime in its life. Dogs also require maintenance services (vaccines, heartworm protection, grooming, etc.). It’s good to be prepared.

Who will be primary care taker?

Are children taking care of the dog? If so, parents still need to supervise them so that the dog’s needs are met. Sometimes in large family homes, the dog gets ignored.

Other pets in house

Some dogs get along with cats and birds—some don’t. If you have other pets and want to bring a dog home, consider the living space. Ask yourself, if I bring a new dog into the home, do I have enough space to keep my pets separated and happy?

Shelters or breeders

Shelters are a wonderful place to give a dog a forever home. Most dogs in shelters are adults and potty trained already. In our experience, they make great pets! Some people may choose to get their dog from a breeder. It’s good to make sure the breeder is legitimate before purchasing a puppy. Please avoid puppy mills at all costs! Puppy mills have terrible living conditions for dogs and puppies.

Puppy or adult

Some people want to raise a puppy and others prefer an adult dog. Either choice is rewarding, but make sure you’re prepared for whatever you decide. Puppies require lots of time and patience.

New dogs are always a fun experience! Being prepared before choosing your family member is in your best interest and will make the journey much better! And as always, staff at Parrish Creek are available for your questions.

Visit the AVMA website for more detailed information.