DNA Results & PBFD

[Tamella]

Hi everyone,
I've got an Indian Ringneck that I'm looking to sell because we are moving and have a baby on the way and just don't give her the right amount of attention that we should. I had a lady very interested in her, but when she was told the name of the breeder, she said that he's infamous for PBFD in his aviary and doesn't want my bird because she has a baby blue and gold macaw and would like to breed my ringneck. I don't blame her, but I have the DNA Test Result certificate from Avian Biotech and next to all of the diseases, there is a -. I am going to call Avian Biotech on Monday to find out some answers, but thought I'd ask here first. My questions are:

1. Does the " - " mean negative or that it wasn't tested for diseases?

2. Could she have tested negative at the time of the test but contracted the virus and now be a carrier?

3. She's 1 1/2 years old now. Should she have shown some signs of the sickness by now?

Thank you in advance. This will help me tremendously while trying to sell my bird.

Thank you,
Tami

[The Outlaw]

Your bird does not have PBFD. It should have been symptomatic by now. However, you could order a retest. There is the possibility that your bird was tested before it was exposed. In any event, the test will cost you about $20 if you submit the blood sample yourself.

In an aviary with hundreds of birds, some, though exposed, will never acquire the disease. Some may survive the disease and pass it on to their chicks. Normally, the chicks won't survive.

Frankly, this is a tough call. Even though your bird may be completely free of any problems, with a baby bird in the home, its essential that ANY possibility of disease transmission, though remote, be avoided.

You simply need to find another home for your bird. Preferably one with no other birds. Don't despair. They are out there.

Its a buyer's market these days. The rescues are bulging with birds that need homes and every winter people give up birds when they can't take the mess and noise anymore. Its so sad. Now, with the bird flu hysteria, it will only get worse. Try to find your bird the best home. Forget making any money. Placing her is far more important. Good luck.

[Winged_Victory]

[quote=

You simply need to find another home for your bird. Preferably one with no other birds. Don't despair. They are out there.

Its a buyer's market these days. The rescues are bulging with birds that need homes and every winter people give up birds when they can't take the mess and noise anymore. Its so sad. Now, with the bird flu hysteria, it will only get worse. Try to find your bird the best home. Forget making any money. Placing her is far more important. Good luck.[/QUOTE]

Very well said Nancy!

Gary