HOW TO FIND ONE KNOWLEDGEABLE IN AVIAN MEDICINE.
The best way to start looking for a "Bird Doctor"
would be to ask local veterinarians, the veterinary
association in your community or state, local pet
stores and bird clubs.
All veterinarians with a serious interest in birds
should be a member of the Association of Avian
Veterinarians (AAV). This is well worth asking about.
However, even being a member of AAV does not attest
to their avian medical abilities. It is, however,
a very good start.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN VISITING A AVIAN
Veterinarian. Is the hospital clean and
inviting? Are there bird-related items in the
reception area or exam room?
Does the Hospital seem equipped to treat birds?
Some of the standard equipment needed should
included a gram scale, incubators, a radiograph
machine (X rays), laboratory facilities,
isoforane gas anesthesia and a clean and organized
surgery room. Ask for a tour of the hospital.
Are the staff members friendly, professional and
knowledgeable?
Does your veterinarian fulfill the Three C's?
Competency, Communication and Compassion?
Are the fees openly discussed? Cost estimates,
preferably in writing, should be given before
any test or treatments are begun.
If follow-up care provided?
Does the hospital provide after-hours emergency
coverage? Inguire about their policy concerning
emergencies outside regular office hours.
Going to the Veterinarian, things to remember.
Call ahead and make an appointment. If this is a
first-time visit, arrive fifteen minutes early to
fill out the necessary paperwork. For an emergency
still call ahead. Make sure the doctor is in and
allow the staff time to prepare for your arrival.
GOING TO A VETERINARIAN, THINGS TO REMEMBER.
Birds should be carried into the hospital in some
type of cage or container. It us best to bring the
bird's own cage (do not clean it, so the actual
environment, including the droppings can be
observed.) If the cage is to large to move, use
a cardboard box, plastic transport carrier or
smaller cage. There should be holes for well
ventilation. Be sure to bring along the paper from
the cage floor and a sample of the food being
eaten.
Just before leaving, consider emptying water cups
so they don't spill, lowering or removing perches
if the bird is showing any instability or
excessive weakness, removing any swings or toys
that could injure the bird during the ride and
possibly covering the cage, which may help some
birds to relax more.
Bring any medications or other supplements the
bird has recently been given.
Write down a list of any questions. In the
exam room, clients frequently forget many of the
questions they had wanted to ask.
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Designed by WeCare. Last Updated: December 4, 2000 |
