Have to board Jasper soon

[katie_fleming]

I found out that I have to travel to the UK next month. It's only for 2 days but I have 2 travel days on top of that.

My parents have been able to help every time so far, but since it's only a short time and over a weekend, this time it's not possible. They're 3 hours away and renting a car and driving him there/back/pickup/back is too difficult.

I will have to board Jasper for the first time and I'm feeling very heartbroken. He will be boarded at the vet, and likely will not be taken out of his cage unless they're cleaning it.

I'm already feeling so badly about it. I hope he won't feel abandoned or be really sad/lonely. He's used to hours of out of cage time each day and tons of attention. I can't imagine leaving him there

They recommended the smallest cage size since it's only a couple of days but I am waiting to hear the price for the medium cage. I hope my work helps me pay for this as it's at least $23-$25 per day I believe plus the cost of renting a Car2Go to get him there/back since it's Winter.

My plan is to bring a bunch of his favourite toys, set them up myself, bring his "snacky time" that he goes crazy for at bedtime, and write out some instructions for him. I may even supply his dinner so there's familiar food.

Not sure what else I can do...any other tips for making him as comfortable as possible? I hope he'll be ok....

Sad birdie mommy

 

[plumsmum2005]

Hello I know it's not much consolation but I'm sure he'll be fine. If he takes to new toys OK then perhaps get one that can go in the cage as a surprise during his stay. Is it possible to strike up a rappor with one of the vet nurses that will look after him, you can make them aware of his likes/dislikes that way. If you can afford the time try to spend a little with him settling him in, putting his cage how you think he will like it. All that you suggest sounds great to me. Try to enjoy your trip to the UK and not worry too much.

 

[Eitak579]

I feel your pain, I was facing the same thing with my Eclectus. We're taking a trip at the end of this month and I was very very nervous trying to decide what to do. We live in a rural area and options are limited. I started looking for pet sitters and found a wonderful woman who has a Cockatoo and has been pet sitting for several years. We have a mutual friend and I felt 100x better when she offered to come over and meet Johnny and things went well. I still feel bad for leaving him but I know he'll be in the capable hands of someone who is bird experienced. Maybe this avenue could work for you if you have time to search while retaining your boarding appointment just in case.