Sup

[TakRail]

TakRail here.

I live in Sacramento and will hopefully be getting an Congo African Grey in the next few days.

Long story short; we were planning on getting one free from a friend who said that they can not take care of the bird. They didn't have the time and that the bird continually plucked it feathers. So we went out and got a big cage, as they said the cage they have for it is to small. We told the kids that one of their Christmas presents was going to be a talking bird. So now the whole family is excited.

We have wanted one for years and done a bunch of reading up and studying.

Then they backed up saying that the bird had to much physical problems and they were afraid that the stress of giving it away would kill the bird.

So here we are with a big ass cage, excited kids, and no bird. Basically instead of getting the free bird, were going to just buy one. A bird store here is Sacramento, "The Bird Shop", has two Greys (6 and 8 months) for $1000. Ya, I'd rather spend the money than tell the kids their present is not going to be coming. Anyways, has anyone delt with this bird store?

 

[Auggie's Dad]

Not I. I suspect you're about to be inundated with replies telling you to avoid pet shop birds. Some may be well stated, others may be overstated, but there is much to be aware of.

I suspect if you are asking about this bird shop you don't yet know much about it - most 'pet shop' style bird sellers are trouble - no not all, but I think 'most' is a fair generalization. It might be wise to check out adoption/rescues in the area if you have not already.

 

[BlueToast]

You probably lucked out with not getting the plucked bird sometimes the damage from neglect cannot be undone.

 

[TakRail]

Not I. I suspect you're about to be inundated with replies telling you to avoid pet shop birds. Some may be well stated, others may be overstated, but there is much to be aware of.

I suspect if you are asking about this bird shop you don't yet know much about it - most 'pet shop' style bird sellers are trouble - no not all, but I think 'most' is a fair generalization. It might be wise to check out adoption/rescues in the area if you have not already.

I agree. When we looked at dogs I avoided these places like the plague. I read a bunch of reviews about this bird store and all have been great. I was just wondering if anyone here has delt with them.

We looked around but can't find much for rescues. Plus I've already delt with many that wanted to sell me a bird and as soon as I send them the money they will ship it to me; Ha ha, I don't think so.

 

[antoinette]

Hi TakRail welcome on board
Glad you inquiring before buying a bird.
I have had 2 terrible experiences purchasing birds from a pet shop (here in South Africa).
Had a ringneck Jess, for 3 years, wanted a mate for her. Purchased one from a very respectable pet shop, bird was 3 months old. Took the new bird Charlie to the vet, to be safe. Said all was okay. Did everything according to the book. Within 4 days Jess, suddenly died. 3 days later Charlie died.
No one could explain what had happened. My guys were devastated, we cried for days on end.
Personally I would avoid pet shops, yet many people do, and are extremely happy with their birds.
As AD mentioned adopt or rescues, so many birds need a home.
Good luck
Keep us posted
Take care

 

[TakRail]

As AD mentioned adopt or rescues, so many birds need a home.

Can you give me some suggestions as to where to go to get a rescue? Personally, I would rather rescue a well mannered bird than buy one.

 

[antoinette]

Hi Takrail
I live in South Africa, unfortunately I would not be able to assist you as where to adopt or rescue a bird.
Surf the net, check out the classified section.
Perhaps other members nearer to you, will be of great assistance.
Keep us updated
Good Luck

 

[Auggie's Dad]

If the store is getting good reviews there is not reason to 'avoid' it if you can't find good rescues or adoption organizations.

I got Auggie from a pet store - they raised him well, he was healthy, social, and he has been wonderful.

So don't get the wrong impressions. Pet stores are not (always) like the plague. Just do look around to make sure you are assessing all the options.

Unfortunately I don't know any places in Sacramento, but its a big enough place that I'm sure they are there.

 

[TakRail]

Well, we went to the store and ended up getting the 8 month old. We fell in love with her right off the bat (I think it's a female due to the tail feather colors). She knows "step-up, step-down" already and they said she has already begun to talk but hasn't for us; which I'm sure she won't say much until she gets used to us more. We were able to hold her at the store and pet her. She is very very gentle when we hold her. She shows no sign of behavioral problems. She is an absolute doll.

We know when she was born, and that she was checked out by a certified bird Vet in Roseville (About 30 miles from us), which happens to be the Vet we had already looked into before we even went to the pet store.

I've attached a pick of her. In the pic she's in our make shift cage (Old Dog crate) as we ended up getting her before I got her cage put together. I'll get a video of her tomorrow and post it.

 

[antoinette]

Congrat's
She looks adorable.
Though of a name yet?
Take things slowly, let her gain your trust.
Wish you so much joy with the bird.
Keep us posted, looking forward to the video.
Take care

 

[TakRail]

Finally got a video of her and a decent pic. We're not totally sure yet, but we think we're going to either name her Lilly or Gracie.

Here is the link to the video.
[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IL42vivZd5g"]YouTube - Donny Holding Our African Grey Parrot[/ame]