Pet Forum / Birds / Birds / April 2004

Hi Dave, Heather et al:

I am a parrot breeder for over 15 years now and just pass along things
that have worked for me and breeders I work with.  Although I am a
member of the Avian Veterinarian association I am not a certified
"Avian Vet"  However, my experience has been that you are often better
off taking advice from experienced breeders than so called "Avian
Vets" who have never raised a baby parrot in their lives.  (When I was
learning the ropes Howard Voren was a big help to me and walked me
thru assisted hatches at 3:00 a.m. by phone, I have tried to pass that
along by sharing info with people asking for help.)

As for being a "cohort" to the completely nutzoid HY breeder that
makes me laugh til my sides ache.  Although that person does live in
my town I have not seen or spoken to it in over 10 years.......and do
not plan to in future so kindly stifle that false allegation.

As for deformed chicks I have found that over 50% of the time it is a
selenium deficiency and that they respond within a couple of days if
thats the problem.  I see little to lose by trying it as its totally
non toxic in the minute dose suggested.  The last time I used it was
on a whole clutch of Bourkes Keets which could not raise their heads.
Within 2 days they were running around eating normally.  The owner had
spent $800 on failed "Avian Vet" therapy prior to that and spent $2.00
on the selenium.   So take your pick folks......is it worth trying?
If not then spend your money on the "Avian Vets" they will be happy to
see you!!!!!  LOL

We sure miss Doug Cook on RPB as he had a way of dealing with folks
who look a gift horse in the mouth and make personal attacks on people
who are offering sound advice.  Sigh............

drlee