Is Your Home Bird-Safe?
By Anne Watkins
It's hard to believe that June is here! Warm summer weather means wide open windows and doors, ceiling fans going and ice tea flowing. It's also the time of year to spruce up our homes with fresh coats of paint, or time to scrub those dingy storm window screens. Whatever summer activities beckon you, keep the safety of your precious feathered buddies foremost in mind!
Ever notice how little kids will get into something they shouldn't if you so much as turn your back for a second? Well, birds are like curious children--it only takes a microsecond for them to get into trouble. And some birds, like cockatiels and some types of conures, can fly quite well even with clipped wings. Here is a brief safety checklist to scan before you let your bird out to play. Add other items as they apply to your home. And remember--these tips are good year ‘round, not just for the summer months!
Safety Checklist
- Do you know where the cat or dog (or other family pet) is at all times, especially if they have access to the bird?
- Are all doors and windows screened or closed?
- Are the commode lids down and aquariums covered?
- Are the stove eyes turned off?
- Are containers of cleaners, paint, or other toxic substances sealed and put away?
- Are all ceiling fans turned off before your bird leaves its cage?
- Are electrical cords, phone lines, or wiring out of reach?
- Have you closed or put away cosmetics and perfumes?
- Will you be able to keep an eye on your bird every second it's out of its cage?
- Have you made sure everyone knows the bird is out so no one will step or sit on it?
- Are unsafe plants out of reach?
- Are all toxic foods, such as avocado or chocolate, put away?
- Have you emptied or removed all containers with even a tiny bit of liquid in them that the bird might stick its head into and drown?
- Have you hidden everything the bird might disassemble, such as the TV remote control?
Remember! Birds have enormous curiosities and will investigate everything they can get their beaks on. Anything that isn't tied down will be tasted and chewed, picked up and examined. Make sure your home is bird-safe. I hope that you and your avian companions have a most wonderful and safe summer!