Macaw getting worse... :(

[leschornmom]

We've been to the vets 4 times over the past two weeks. So far they (both my local one and the one in Indy) have not been able to tell me what's wrong with my rescue Macaw, Saphira. Aside from a little blood work they really haven't offered much in the line of diagnostics... She is on antibiotics and another med that I believe is an anti inflammatory.

She has been pretty lethargic since I brought her home. While she's been scaring me over the past week she really hasn't gotten any worse... until tonight. Now she is visibly taking deep labored breaths. I can hear her crackling a little and her mouth is open. I really fear that we are nearing the end... I wouldn't be so upset if I just knew what is wrong with her. I understand that not all rescues make it (A point my vet made) but I feel like there should be SOMETHING more that we can do. She is still eating though... Is that a good sign?

Do any of you have any suggestions for making her more comfortable until I can take her in tomorrow?

 

[nyspy]

Humidifier in the room, a soft towel at the bottom of her cage, temperature @ 80 degrees.

I don't know the avian vets up there, but I did a bit of research.. It might be time to switch the vet. IF I were in your position, I would call the following vet tonight and if she tells you to take her tonight, then do the drive. If she tells you it's ok until tomorrow, then follow her advice.

Our Staff | Avian Exotic

The bio for Dr. Lennox is impeccable. The reviews seem to rate her pretty highly as well.

PLEASE keep us apprised of the situation. Breathing heavy is not a good sign for any mammal. She may be in pain.

 

[nyspy]

I know avian vets aren't cheap and good ones are even more expensive, because they know their competition. Please do what you can. I will also PM you my telephone number if you want / need to talk tonight / tomorrow or whenever.

 

[MikeyTN]

The thing is are those vets avian vets? Its best going to certified avian vets if you have some serious issues.

 

[brianlinkles]

I'm not sure where you are in Indy but there is an amazing vet. Dr dahlhausen in Cincinnati. I go to him and I know people in Indy that go to him.

 

[nyspy]

Just spoke to her on the phone. She's calling Dr. Lennox's emergency telephone number.. I'm just hoping birdy pulls through this ok. Difficulty breathing..

 

[leschornmom]

I am already established with Lennox. She is the one I had to take her to the other day. I've left a message with their answering service... if it's anything like the other night I'll be waiting a while... I'm gonna' go ahead and make preparations to head that way.

 

[MikeyTN]

Good luck to you and hope everything turns out ok for you and Saphira.

 

[leschornmom]

OK I just talked to their Avian call back person.... (Would that be their nurse LOL)... I am taking her in and leaving her. They will let me know what is going on tomorrow... But at least this way she can get some supportive care. Prayers, good thoughts, meditation... what ever you do, it would be greatly appreciated!

 

[MikeyTN]

I'll keep her in my prayers!! Hope everything goes well!!!!

 

[nyspy]

She's in my prayers. You are an amazing person for being so caring and diligent. We need more bird owners like you.

 

[nyspy]

Put her in a box with a towel at the bottom and water for her.. bring an eye-dropper to feed her water if she looks like she needs it.

In case you do feed her, always feed her from the right (facing birdy) and just dribble on her tongue. She will take it in herself.. it's not like medication.

 

[JerseyWendy]

How is she? Any updates???

 

[GaryBV]

*fingers crossed*

 

[nyspy]

I'm worried about her..

 

[JerseyWendy]

I'm worried about her..

....as am I.

 

[MikeyTN]

Me three......

 

[leschornmom]

OK... Sorry I had a VERY long day. Saphira is doing wonderfully! She spent some time getting O2 and keeping warm. The vet did Xrays and blood work. They sent some tests off to Purdue. At this point, aside from an enlarged organ (possibly the liver) and an upper respiratory infection, there is no reason why she shouldn't be well on the road to recovery in the next two to three weeks.
Dr Lee with the Avian Exotic Animal Clinic of Indianapolis was AMAZING! She went above and beyond, even making sure that Draco has meds too!
I have high hopes that all will be well So sorry for the delay in getting back to everyone!

 

[MikeyTN]

I'm glad to hear the good news!!!! Hope she keeps on improving.

 

[nyspy]

I always get attached emotionally to any bird I hear about.. I'm so glad she's ok! She knows you saved her.. That's a guarantee. You couldn't ask for a Happier Thanksgiving!