Bird Harness

[Natoleee]

Hi friends!
So I've had my ring neck for almost a yr now and he's been making slow progress, but still progress with my bf and I as well as the apartment. I find that new things scare him very easily so I want to encourage him to explore and build up some confidence! I thought since the weather is finally starting to get nice by me I'd like to take him outdoors. My cockatiel and I enjoy walks and long tanning hrs! Lol I've had him forever so I have no qualms about having him outside and trusting he won't fly(plus he's clipped )


So I wanted to get everyone's opinion on harnesses and how your bird took to it if you have ever used one. I think bowie being able to get to play in grass and the sun would be really great for him!

 

[JerseyWendy]

I think it's a wonderful idea that you want to take Bowie outside! Socializing him that way may bring him out of his shy shell.

I use the Aviator harness for my Amazons. If you need tips/tricks on how to get Bowie used to a harness, have look at this thread, please http://www.parrotforums.com/training/59374-harness-training-videos.html

 

[Natoleee]

Just watched a few videos and omg I have my work cut out for me!!!! He might see the sun next year! Lol I'll aim for end of the summer hopefully

 

[Christinenc2000]

Just watched a few videos and omg I have my work cut out for me!!!! He might see the sun next year! Lol I'll aim for end of the summer hopefully

I will aim with you.:41: So far I have been working on baths. i found out if I put a jar of Peanut Butter in site . HE is easier to bath SO might have to try the peanut butter with harness

 

[Kalel]

Hi Natolee,

I have been working on harness training with my sunny, Moonie for about a year now! They were not kidding when they said on the DVD that some birds take months to years to allow you to put one of these things on them. Moonie can be an overly confident little brat and I think he is the total opposite of shy, calm, timid etc...a little ball of energy! He has now got to the stage where he willingly pops his head into the harness and will allow that for about 7 or 8 seconds before wanting it off. I'm taking it baby steps at a time. My next step is to get him used to me letting go of the harness and having the weight of the harness pulling on his neck...that's the part that seems to bother him the most. Just remember you need to be very patient. More and more I have met people who just grabbed the bird and popped the harness on, let them protest, then they get over it but I have been hesitant to do that because if it freaks him out too much that will be the last time he ever wears it He really is forgiving and trusting so I really don't want to erode that either, but believe me I have thought about it!

Just a small suggestion, if you don't mind. I would consider harness training your cockatiel too! I know he's clipped and used to going outside, but all it can take is a horn or a dog to bark or jump up on you or something and he may flap off in a panic and if there is a gust of wind or worse yet an animal, car, etc. it could end in disaster.
Sorry if I sound a bit paranoid, but more and more I see people losing their birds and you begin to realize how easy it is to do so EVEN with a clipped one.

Good luck and please let us know how training goes! I am really interested in hearing about any progress

 

[Natoleee]

Yea, I Def don't want to freak him out or break trust!!! Slow and steady!!!

Your def right about the cockatiel harness though! I would die if anything happened to him!