Would this be rude

[Abby]

Some of you may be aware that I have 2 pairs of potential breeding cockatoos. A pair of galahs and a pair of long billed corellas. What you may not know is that I'm friends with the owner of Parrot Rescue here in Australia and that I start Susan Friedmans LLP course (behavioural course) this month.

Now I've been giving some thought to what happens with any future cockatoo chicks. What I'm thinking is asking why they want a cockatoo, what their knowledge is already, giving info on all the negative aspects of cockatoo ownership, information from parrot rescue, and (if they still want the babe) requesting that I catch up 6 monthly for my the rest of mine or the birds life to see how the birds and owners are going. I also want to make sure people realise to ring me anytime if they have problems or just want to chat and that if they decide to rehome to bring the bird back to me.

Just wanting opinions on this. I really don't want to see any of my chicks getting passed around time and time again.

I don't breed GSC2s as of the Australian 'toos I believe (well actually I know) these guys are the most problematic and I know most often rehomed. Galahs and long bills aren't often rehomed.

[expressmailtome]

I do not think that it is a bad idea. I think that you are being a concienceous breeder. I know that some breeders of dogs have people sign contracts saying that if they get rid of the dog they will offer it back to the breeder first.

Matt

[Eliza]

I don't think that it's out of line, especially if you present it in a fashion similar to what you outlined above.

Keep in mind that there is no guarantee that someone will keep up with the conditions but even so, it might help you weed out impulse buyers.

[SDavid]

Abby, I believe most people will actually appreciate being asked why they want the species they're interested in rather than consider it a rude question. That and the other information you give them will show that you're interested in helping them make the right choice and not just in taking their money. It gives them a chance to open up and share-it's a question that money hungry salespeople don't ask and people know this. I would think that someone buying from a breeder would want to discuss things and maintain a relationship with the breeder after the purchase. Your customers know they'll have questions down the line and so will probably feel better to know they can call you.


"I really don't want to see any of my chicks getting passed around time and time again."

I think breeders take that chance no matter what. Establishing an honest and trusting relationship to the best of your ability with your customers is probably the best thing you can do to avoid it. I know there are some breeders that are asking people to sign contracts etc. in an effort to look after their baby's in the long term. I'm not so sure that this is a good idea. In general, people don't like to sign agreements and it may generate bad feelings. I think it's enough to verbally explain to customers that they can talk to you about any issues that might come up.

[plainjane]

I will be honest here. Most of your suggestion sounds wonderful. In fact, if you have a web page, I might have all that information listed so that callers can read for themselves all the requirements and reprecussions and then sign a form saying that they understand and agree. I know many dog breeders have something similar.

However, I might feel a little akward about having to check in ever 6 months forever. I am a very shy and private person by nature and that might make me feel a little overwhelmed.

[Peanutbutter]

I'm thinking more along the lines of a webpage, a business card, a friendly smile.... and encouragement that if they ever need to rehome that you can help.

Maybe you could send out a 6mo email (or snail mail) check up and yearly reminders to all adoptive parronts that you are there for them-- like a newsletter. But not always expect a response.

The newsletter could include your number, care tips, local vet contact info (like a quick reference for emergencys), a FAQ section that changes each time w/ tips on diet, behavior, etc.

That would be very creative & would serve as a reminder that you love these babies.