how do you have them shower with you? i know showering is sort of a personal thing but i mean how do you accustom your bird to it? where do they sit? or do they just kind of run around?
I was wondering the same thing, also, how do you use shampoo and soap? I keep reading if it smells strong to us it's probably bad for the bird (besides the chemicals in shampoos and soaps can't be good to get on the bird either)
Best approach is to have a dedicated shower perch and split your shower time in two. I would recommend that first half of the shower be you and bird time, second half is cleaning yourself with your shampoo/conditioner/soap. I recommend the second half so there's no risk of residue in your hair/on your hands, etc when interacting with the bird in the shower.
Some owners do it in reverse and have personal shower first, shared shower second so they can come out at the same time and dry their bird down. If you decide to do this, ensure you clean away ANY kind of soap/shampoo/conditioner beforehand.
With getting them used to a shower, start by supplying shallow water bowls (enough to splash in, but not enough to float in) or misting and see how they react. (Deep water can be dangerous - drowning and/or damage to their chest area due to the air sacks in their bones - there's a proper description of it, but I can't remember the exact details). If they react positively to it, then allow them to splash around in the bathroom sink. Once they're used to that, start taking your shower while they're splashing around.
Often, they'll be curious as to what you are doing and may want to join you. Have their shower perch away from the force of the water/showerhead and let them check out the shower. It's new, so ensure that ALL of their experiences with water are positive (use an excited voice, heaps of praise, etc). If they're keen enough, they'll put their head out, fluff up and may spread their wings to splash in the water. Take it slow. If you rush it, it may not like it. But if they do, then many fun shower times to be had!
