Update on the Orphans

[OwnedbyMacaws]

I got the call from the Vet just now. I wasn't expecting it until tomorrow but the results he was waiting for came in early. Aspergillosis it is.

The GW, whom the vet has determined is Mickey, has the worst of it. He has some lesions that will have to be surgically removed. Mallory has it as well, but he thinks he can be treated with antifungal drugs. amphotericin B and itraconazole are the two I remember right off hand, but there were others he mentioned as well. I'm going up tomorrow to visit with the birds and talk a little further with the vet, but surgery will be taking place tomorrow for Mickey, and Mallory will stay as well so that the Vet can treat him on a nebulizer for a few days. If things go well, I can expect Mallory back at the house next monday or tuesday. For Mickey, we'll have to wait and see how things go.

Fortunately, this is not typically a contagious disease so the girls should be fairly safe. But the quarentine is still in place. I've recleaned and sterilized the spare bedroom for Mickey and Mallory already, and I've ordered a double parrot cage for them from my pet shop. The vet says they need to be kept apart for a while due to the featherplucking among a host of other reasons, but close enough to be comforted because they seem to be bonded.

He has given me a tentatively postive outlook for Mallory, and a very neutral one on Mickey but he doesn't think we should give up yet. So, I'll keep you guys informed.

[DocT]

I am so glad to hear from you and about the birds. Well it seems like wonderful news and not so wonderful news. But never give up I just have a feeling both are going to come out of this just great. Sounds like you have a wonderful vet. I am keeping all of you in my thoughts

Bonnie

[Rue]

You've been in my thoughts about this...I hope everything works out for all of you and the all the birds! You're doing a wonderful thing!

I am concerned however, about the financial aspects...it's starting to all sound horrendously expensive

[OwnedbyMacaws]

Originally Posted by Rue

You've been in my thoughts about this...I hope everything works out for all of you and the all the birds! You're doing a wonderful thing!

I am concerned however, about the financial aspects...it's starting to all sound horrendously expensive

Yeah, its looking to get pretty expensive. I keep a credit card with a several thousand dollar limit on it for animal medical expenses. We can cover the costs of treatment on it, unless it totals up to more than a used car. The vet has been extremely generous and is slashing costs at every available corner for me (he has a soft heart too. The cursing under his breath through the whole first exam is proof of that) My only real concern will be one of the others getting sick before we get the credit card paid back down which will take several months.

[Rue]

I'm glad to hear the vet is helping out as much as he is. Hopefully no one else in your crew will be needing health care anytime soon. I've got my fingers crossed for you and am very interested to keep hearing how it's coming along.

You're very brave. When we 'adopted' Ever I made as certain as I could that she had no major behavioural issues and was healthy...and we lucked out (*knock on wood*) - she's a pumpkin! I was also prepared to deal with any other issues she has...I'm planning on keeping her forever, and if she outlives hubby and I, I'm fairly certain at least one of my kids will keep her from then on...

But what you're doing, as far as I'm concerned...falls under the category of 'heroism' and self-sacrifice...I don't know if I could do it...I wish I could...but I don't know...

You deserve a big bouquet of your favourite flowers (and a cash-fall!)!!!!

Have you taken 'before' pictures yet?

[Casa Amazona]

I second everything Rue said. You, your hubby and your vet are simply the greatest. Although I'm sorry to hear the diagnosis, it sounds as though they're going to be getting the very best care in your hands. May they flourish with you -- and you along with them!

[Doubleyolk]

Wishing you the best and hope the surgery turns out OK. It is also good to see the Vet is working with you.

[The Outlaw]

I can only echo the sentiments of everyone else. You are just the best.

[Regina U.]

I also go with what everyone is saying. You are the BEST! What a kind and generous soul you are. My prayers are with you and your new fids!
We are here for you.

Regina

PS... I would also like a few words with the person who left them and let them get so sick... but, atleast they are with someone who cares now... bless you!

[dino24]

I agree with what everyone else said. I do wonder though if whoever left them might have known they where sick....and that is why they were dumped!!! I am not saying that they were takin care of properly before that but maybe the person figured out that something really bad was going on and that is why they decided to get rid of them....hmmm makes you wonder.