Therapy Bird

[TeakwoodBirdHouse]

Our birds fill various needs for us. And these relationships benefit them as well. Recently, I rescued 2 budgie hens from a bad situation. I decided that this would be their forever home. Also recently, my brother moved down here to Florida. He has advanced Aids, and has been HIV positive for 25 years. I am his primary caregiver. He has been very depressed and lonely. I thought that giving him one of the new girls would give him someone to care for, and worry about, instead of himself. He's had a budgie in the past, and took good care of it. Well, long story short, both of them have blossomed! He is no longer so depressed and lonely. And she has become tamer and friendly. He now has a constant companion who fills his time, instead of worrying and being depressed. She amuses him continually. And his care and love have taught her to trust people. She has become a well adjusted pet. It is a win-win for both of them.

 

[JensFlock]

That is so touching. Birds can do so much for us.
I'm happy for all of you.

 

[henpecked]

hey teakwood,great story. I think birds make all of us better people.When i'm down my Jake turns my day right around.We live right down the road from you in Palmetto.

 

[brianlinkles]

Wow, I just read this and it has turned my day around. I was in a very "down" mood today and just reading this has cheered me up. Great idea giving your brother a friend to bond with, great choice choosing your brother for the little hen to gain her trust with. Now excuse me while I get a tissue!

 

[Bright Star]

I always say that it's impossible to be unhappy when there's a happy little budgie around Mine sing and play all day and lift my mood, when it needs it, no matter what is going on.

 

[Molcan2]

Great story, its amazing how much birds impact our lives. I have been trying to figure out how to do some therapy work with Rome. She absolutely loves strangers of any kind and is so social, I just haven't figured out how to do it yet. I think it would be so fulfilling for her to be able to touch someone else's life.

 

[TeakwoodBirdHouse]

Molcan...I used to have a Lovebird that I used to bring to the Assisted Living facility that my mother works at. The residents loved her, and she loved the attention. She has passed away recently. Check out Assisted Living Facilities, Children's Hospitals, and places like that. Pet Therapy has become a recognized treatment, and many places are willing to try it. Get in touch with the Administrators of these places, and propose the idea. It is very rewarding. For the patients, you, and the bird. Also, thanks everyone for your kind words.

 

[YNAMomma]

Aww that is such a sweet story i am so happy its working out so well for the both of them. An I mean come on who can be sad when a lil' budgie looks at you with that little cocked to the side head and a tiny whistle. Makes you just want to kiss em'. lol