Learned to Give Birdie Shots.

My Hahns developed an infection on the white fleshy part where the upper and lower beaks meet. I noticed it right away, went to the vet and now am giving anti-biotic shots every 12 hrs to my baby boy.

It is working as I have noticed the swelling reduction. And I am learning how to, and how not to give shots. Lesson 1, get full control. Lesson 2 be quick about it. Lesson 3 be generous in praise and rewards.

Specifics:
I am using an insulin/heparin syringe and paid close attention when the techs were giving me instructions on using the keel bone as my guide for hitting the chest muscles. Don't be afraid of asking anything you are unsure of. Also take notes and even use your phone camera to document their instructions so you aren't left in doubt when you are expected to do it alone at home.

Be courageous and competent, thats your babies best chance for a good experience. If done quick enough I notice he doesn't even flinch as I give the shot.

Hope this helps if any of you find yourselves in the same kind of situation.

A few years ago my beloved Hunter got sick, and my avian vet taught me how to do this as well. I absolutely LOVE this method of administering medicine, as there is no guess work involved whether your bird "ate" it all.

Perhaps a bit nerve-wrecking when you do it the first time, but once you realize how simple it is, it's a piece of cake to do it.

Also our preferred method. gets quicker results.

Shots done, infection gone, bird happy.

The day after the last shot I put him on his back and he got a bit nervous, probably anticipating another shot. Once I began to simply play with him he perked up as if to say, "no more shots?".