Two houses help?

[nerdycrumbs]

I have been really thinking about potentially getting a bird! I've done my research and know about the commitment, the only problem is my housing situation. I currently am still in school and live with my parents, and they are divorced and have shared custody of me. I switch houses up to 2 to 3 times a week, and both houses have small children.(four and two year old toddlers)
There is also the possibility of me switching to week on week off to make it easier on the bird(tkaing it with me once a week to the other house), but this also presents the problem of constant travel. But if I get one with my current schedule, I fear that the bird my be neglected and kept in its cage or fed improperly. What would be easiest for a small bird like a budgie or cockatiel?
Should I just wait till I move out? I don't want to own an unhappy bird!
-Thanks!

 

[DiscoDuck]

Should I just wait till I move out? I don't want to own an unhappy bird!
-Thanks!

wait.. for too many obvious reasons..

Good things come to those who wait.

A patient seeker will be satisfied in due time; patience is a virtue. Synonyms[edit]. all things come to those who wait · all things in time · a penny saved is a penny earned · April showers bring May flowers · a watched pot never boils · good things are worth ...

 

[Scott]

While it is possible to have a companion bird in your situation, much depends on your level of commitment for the life of the bird. Budgies and cockatiels can live 10 to 15 years or more; in that span of time you will undergo many changes! I would worry less about the weekly transport and more about the "big picture" of having a long term moral and financial responsibility at your age.

Check out this excellent thread discussing students and birds!
http://www.parrotforums.com/new-mem...-students-should-ask-before-getting-bird.html

 

[Kiwibird]

I'd venture to say you are in a less than ideal situation to become a bird owner. Do yourself and a bird the favor of waiting until you are a financially stable adult with your own place.

That said, I would strongly encourage you start getting bird experience now by volunteering at a local parrot rescue organization and if any exist in your area, join a local parrot club. You'll get invaluable hands on experience without the serious commitment (yet)!

 

[itchyfeet]

I agree that it's not so ideal for you, however, having been in your situation with parents and custody and switching houses....regardless of how awesomely both of your parents have handled it, you've already sacrificed a fair bit in your situation. Now of course, this shouldn't be at the cost of a companion parrot.

Have you spoken to either parent about your passion and intentions? Are either one enthusiastic themselves? Could either be interested in the commitment of a new household/family pet?

 

[Carl_Power]

You can get a bird used to travelling. I used to split the week between home and my girlfriends and had a cage at both places. My Parrot got used to it quickly and loved it. I dont think its a big deal really and it would help socialise the bird more seing different people. As long as your there i think the bird would adapt fine in my oppinion. Obviously heed the above advice as its a big commitment having a Parrot and it could take a month or more to get him to settle in just one house to start with before you even think about moving him around. You will have to make some changes at first x