THE "parrot hold" - a thing you should know

[birdyland]

Ok so I was thinking about this a week or two ago, and something today reminded me to post about the parrot hold. Who knows it? Who uses it? You should!

If you don't know what I'm talking about, please read on. This is a technique of pretty much immobilizing your bird so you can remove the bird, or yourself, from a dangerous situation. It is also used for grooming and health checks.

Basically, for a parrot hold, you grab the bird with one hand from behind on the head, with your wrist/arm also behind the bird. Place your index finger over the top of the head, a thumb on one side of the face/jaw and your other fingers on the other side....effectively immobilizing the birds head. Support the bird with your other hand/arm and you can now move the bird quickly, remove it from a bad situation, or protect yourself in a bad situation.

NOW CAUTIONS- please do remember to hold firmly so you do not get bit, but DO NOT hold too tightly as you CAN bruise or injure your bird by getting carried away, ALSO REMEMBER to support the rest of the bird's body with your other arm/hand. DO NOT twist its neck, and do NOT hold the bird up solely by it's head.

I'm trying to find an illistration... other's that know this technique, please jump in if you can.

[Graehstone]

[kathleen]

Thanks for the important information.

[Graehstone]

Dana, I took the liberty and cross posted this to some other groups I belong to as well because it is important information and you said it so well.

[basketbagley]

Thanks guys! yes, we need to know and the pic Graeh was quite helpful!

[birdyland]

Originally Posted by Graehstone

Dana, I took the liberty and cross posted this to some other groups I belong to as well because it is important information and you said it so well.

Excellent. Also, thanks for the pic.... I had looked briefly for a diagram and my phone started ringing here at work, so gave up before looking for a pic. Very helpful indeed!

[Sophiestkated2]

Thanks guys! This is the best wording/example I've ever gotten!

Jeth
PS- Graeh, is there a photo you CANNOT come with? Let me think..., I dare you..., I double dawg dare you, to find a pic of penquins in a poppy field, and post it! So there!! And no editing on your part!! thnicker-thnicker!

[kensbuns]

Great article but the poor bird looks like his eyes are popping out!! Poor guy!!!LOL

[The Outlaw]

That's exactly how I held Dreamie this afternoon. I guess my instincts just kicked in. Its so important to stay calm, no matter what and realize that you always have the advantage and can really harm them, even accidentally.

[PEANUT]

TOWLING INSTRUCTION. I THOUGHT THIS MIGHT BE GOOD ALSO.
http://www.featheredfamily.com/towelsteps.htm