Birdsitter Info - what did I forget?

[Valo's Moirana]

Since I'm kind of a forgetful mind, I'd like to check with you guys to make sure I didn't forget anything.
I'm leaving for a week for a conference next monday, and have to leave Valo with his birdsitters (they love him to death, so they'll take good care of him and they have birds themselves). I think I have all the info and stuff together for them, but just wanted to make sure I didn't forget anything.

*) Vet information - his vet and contact/directions to 5 other vets in case of emergency, and his medical records
*) First aid kit with instructions about first aid for common small injuries (urging them to take him to the vet for injuries, but to make sure they react properly)
*) LIst of common household hazards and toxic plants
*) my contact information (ie cell phone no, hotel etc)
*) Instructions for feeding including frozed portions of kitchen sink and bird bread, his pellets, and fresh veggies (also some treats). Also list of food NOT to feed.
*) Common and uncommon behavior description of Valo
*) Of course, cage and playgym (he doesn't travel far - just downstairs )
*) a huge bag of love, snuggles, head scratches and kisses from his mommy (I hate leaving, I'll miss him to death - I've been trying to send somebody else to give my talk, but no luck )
*) and then there's some more information in the binder about his species and birds in general which I won't make them read (the first portion i will make them read )

Knowing that I always forget something - please list what I forgot this time... thanks!

[Maui's Mom]

Poop off or whatever it is YOU use to clean his cage . wouldnt want them to use something that they shouldnt. Even thou they have birds of their own, I'd just be sure they knew how you want the cage cleaned, extra stuff for the bottom after they clean it.

[Valo's Moirana]

Originally Posted by Maui's Mom

Poop off or whatever it is YOU use to clean his cage . wouldnt want them to use something that they shouldnt. Even thou they have birds of their own, I'd just be sure they knew how you want the cage cleaned, extra stuff for the bottom after they clean it.

oops, yes... thanks *scribble on list*
thanks!

[Suz Stickville]

AM wake up time instructions .... and what time to put bird to bed ... and special instrutions/ routine for either/or??

Suz

[Valo's Moirana]

Originally Posted by Suz Stickville

AM wake up time instructions .... and what time to put bird to bed ... and special instrutions/ routine for either/or??

he'll get more rythm at his birdie-sitter's than at home (getting up early, going to bed early - he might be a little difficult on the early bed time). with me being a grad student, all i can ensure is about 9hrs of uninterrupted sleep, but the bed time can vary. if all - he'll have to get used to waking up earlier, which might be hard if he's in any sense like mommy

thanks for the note.. i'll put it in.

[FeathersNFur8]

Vet information - his vet and contact/directions to 5 other vets in case of emergency, and his medical records

Type up an authorization form for the care takers, stating they have permission to vet your bird if needed and have all parties sign it. I would also call your vet to let them know that your bird will be in someone else's care and it's also a good idea to have payment arrangements made at your vets office.

[The Outlaw]

In addition to what Karen added, be sure to let the caretaker know what to do with your bird should YOU meet an untimely end.

[FeathersNFur8]

Originally Posted by The Outlaw

In addition to what Karen added, be sure to let the caretaker what to do with your bird should YOU meet an untimely end.

I always make that the last form I fill out. I hate to bring it up, but it's a must.

[lyz2814]

I put together all my info in one of those expanding file folder things (my Dossier-heh), so that everything could go in its own slot. In the business card pocket I put the vet numbers. I wrote out everything about Poo I could think of--just in case she is ever taken care of by non-bird people (currently, my boyfriend's parents have watched her when I went to Italy--they have birds and Poo has visited).

If the people taking care of your bird have birds, you might want to request hygine protocol--like no shareing food/toys/dishes, washing of hands. Just so no germs are spread, if there is any question.

I left my Credit Card numbers with the vet and made it very clear that any issues would be covered by me, so when in doubt, Go To The Vet!

I use my dossier for Poo all the time, storing recipes, and it keeps the receipts and notes from all vet visits, so that anyone can instantly be "up to speed" on Poo.

[FeatherLover]

Make sure your birdsitters know the risks of scented candles, teflon, and the like.