I want to freeflight train, do i vaccinate first?

[Babyrizzmuffin101_ohio]

hello, im thinking of getting a parrot ( a blue and gold macaw most likely unless someone has better advice, on my other thread) im working with a breeder to ensure any parrot is healthy but was wondering if vaccines are a must if i train freeflight? i would love some insight in to what other people have done/ what you think i should do
thank you!

 

[GaleriaGila]

Such a complicated issue... I would consult an avian veterinarian.

Certified Avian Vets

Find an ABVP Specialist - American Board of Veterinary Practitioners

Find a Specialist ABVP Diplomates have proven knowledge and expertise above and beyond what is required to practice veterinary medicine. Beyond that, they have earned the privilege to specialize in the treatment of one or more categories of animals. Diplomates are in 49 of the 50 US states...

abvp.com

If none are near you...
Avian Veterinarians

http://www.aav.org/search/custom.asp?id=1803

In my opinion, any of the vets listed here should be better than a regular vet.
International contacts, too.
If none are near you, maybe you could call and ask for a recommendation for somebody in your area.
And... sometimes, distant vets will offer brief thoughts or advice...
Or... sometimes I find a place to start just by Googling "avian veterinarian near ((your location))"
Good for you for planning/researching!

 

[Babyrizzmuffin101_ohio]

thank you so much!

 

[SailBoat]

Where in the World are you planning on doing Free-Flight?

If it is in North America, it is important to understand that there has been a major increase in the numbers of Hawks and Eagles arounds NA. Although a BG Mac is commonly large enough to cause a young Hawk to avoid them, an Adult Red Tail would see it as an easy meal.

Add general issues with fly-aways and you will have lots of money into your Mac to be little more than a Red Tail's dinner.

Vaccines !?!?

Understand that unless you have a background with owning Large Parrots, you will likely have difficulties with caring for a Mac and likely housing one as unless you own your home, most apartments do not allow Large Parrots.

Strongly recommend that you volunteer your time at a Parrot Rescue or a Pet Store that sells Large Parrots. Starting at the bottom (cleaning cages and feeding) and working up as you develop basic knowledge in caring for Large Parrots.

 

[Babyrizzmuffin101_ohio]

Where in the World are you planning on doing Free-Flight?

If it is in North America, it is important to understand that there has been a major increase in the numbers of Hawks and Eagles arounds NA. Although a BG Mac is commonly large enough to cause a young Hawk to avoid them, an Adult Red Tail would see it as an easy meal.

Add general issues with fly-aways and you will have lots of money into your Mac to be little more than a Red Tail's dinner.

Vaccines !?!?

Understand that unless you have a background with owning Large Parrots, you will likely have difficulties with caring for a Mac and likely housing one as unless you own your home, most apartments do not allow Large Parrots.

Strongly recommend that you volunteer your time at a Parrot Rescue or a Pet Store that sells Large Parrots. Starting at the bottom (cleaning cages and feeding) and working up as you develop basic knowledge in caring for Large Parrots.

oceania is where i would train,
i would appreciate insight as to what you believe the difficulties would be and you believe in vaccines.

 

[SailBoat]

Have long enjoyed Parrots as part of our life and during all those decades have never had our Certified Avian Vet discussed vaccinations for our Parrots.

 

[Babyrizzmuffin101_ohio]

thank you! i was wondering if it was necessary as i have seen a lot of people having mixed opinions.