A very hard decision

[dragon06]

A couple of months ago I had decided that I wanted to get a second bird and that bird would be a Caique. I know I can take care of birds as I already have a Senegal and a Budgie.

But I think I have decided not to get a second bird. I have an illness and most of the time I am ok to give the bird attention they need but during a flare up and I am in bed a lot and can't give as much attention.

My current bird, Merlin, has "grown up" with my illness. I started getting really sick around the time I first got him so he has adjusted to my lifestyle slowly just as I have. He is a very happy bird and I am told by many people that he is well adjusted. Although that doesn't mean that he doesn't bite...he got me good the other day.

I feel like I have been neglecting him a bit so I bought a new playgym that I am going to set up in my bedroom so that as long as I don't have any of the dogs with me then I can have him in my bedroom with me.

I REALLY want a Caique but I think I will have to decide for now to just not get another bird. Merlin is my baby and I love him lots and I am very glad I have him and that he loves me as much as he does!

[4HAND]

I'm sorry to hear about your illness,but wanted to comend you on your decision.To put the needs of Merlin ahead of your own desires is very admirable.I hope your health returns and you are able to do and have all the things you want.
Tena

[lainyc72]

I am sorry to here about your illness. While I dont know all the details, it sounds like you made a good choice to hold off on getting another bird. On the days you are not feeling well/ not as able to give your current fids attention, is their maybe a family member, neighbor, friend who likes birds and would be willing to help out? Even if someone came over for a hour or two to spend some time with them, it would give a chance to socialize with others and have someone familiar with them in case you were unable to care for them for a extended length of time (such as a emergancy hospital visit.) I actually think this is something every pet owner should consider, especially those with birds-- Who will take care of them if I am sick/unable and is my pet familiar enough with them to be comfortable with them caring for them? If something unexpected were to happen, having someone available who already knows them reduces the stress on your fids. Also knowing that they are getting attention on the days you are not as able to take care of them would give you piece of mind and you could concentrate on feeling better knowing they are getting attention and being cared for. I have a senegal myself so I know the time and attention they require-- mine is content with me working all day but gets moody if I am not in the room with him the majority of the time i am home in the morning. I have not had this experience but have read that senegals can also become bonded to one person (primary caregiver) easily and slightly agressive to others if not socilized. I have actually considered having someone come over in the afternoon to play with him for the reasons I outlined above-- it socializes him and gives me a back up caregiver in a emergency situation. I think you having a playstand in your room is a excellent idea! He will still be able to interact with you on the days you are not as mobile.

Good luck.

[huntress]

I think you have made a commendable choice. I also think Merlin makes a good best friend and he prolly doesnt want to share you right now anyhow.

[swanwillow]

I agree, sometimes you need to think about what is best for you and the birds. I WANT another bird, all the time, but life gets in the way, and its best that I do what I do.

[dragon06]

Yes I do have people who can care for my bird on days I am not as well. My roommates are very good at helping. Also, his cage is in the computer room so he always has someone in the room with him except for at bedtime. So he is pretty well socialized. :)

[Courtzrocks]

Sorry about your illness. When i went to see my alex i was going to bring home a green cheek conure too...after thinking about it that would be a huge mistake. I need to focus on my alex first and maybe sometime in the future i can add one. I think for now my Alex will have to be my only child lol. It is so hard to decide NO but then again would be crazy to take on more than i can handle for the moment.

[gilliegirl]

You do not say what your illness is that affects you.
Could it be dare I say it the birds. If so - have you considered getting an air filter to clean the air so you do not get your lungs affected. I had to and it has meant I have been able to keep a parrot. Though the hospital are keeping an eye on me.
Regards
Gill

[kittykittykitty]

I'm very sorry you are ill. I know how limiting a chronic illness can be. My African Grey requires a lot of my energy. One bird is enough for me, also. The best to you and your companion.

[ChestersMom]

I have MS, and I know that when I am feeling bad my birds know it. They seem extra lovey around my flare ups.