And so it starts....

My vet knows how well I take care of Salty. So now the offers for parrots that are no longer wanted or able to be cared for start. She told me of a 22yr old DYH that is in need of a new home, because the owner, a lady who has had the parrot since chickhood, got married, punched out a baby, and now the poor parrot is not getting the attention it warrants, and is becoming loud. Too loud for the husband. I swear it breaks my heart to hear of these stories, mostly because it mirrors what happened to my first 'zon, a YNA, 30+ years ago.

I told my vet that a) i need to talk it over with my wifey and b) we are a one bird house, so it might be just to foster care the parrot until the owner finds a suitable long term home for him. I don't know. I am conflicted with a capitol C. I like DHYA, but they usually do not like me. And Salty will always be the best boy, so is that fair to a new parrot?

'Boats - your guidance, please?

I am sure 'boats will sail along very soon - can you go meet this parrot? May make it easier to decide?

If wifey is on board, you can love the new one and the new one can love wifey and that's all good!
I was worried about bringing in Clarke. Franky, I love the blue mutation and Henry deserves to be number one. But it'd kinda like kids, the birds are completely different and i love them both in their own special ways.
Multi bird households do function differently though, and on the rare occasion I miss the simplicity of one. Henry's a go getting people kinda parrot, and I feel really guilty if I take him somewhere I dont take the others.

This is definitely a very personal decision on your part, and don't feel guilty if you decide against it.

My opinion is that it might be worth a shot on a trial basis, maybe a month's time to evaluate the bird and your own routine. It might give you some insight on dealing with the dynamic and whatever problems the bird is coming with, and if it's something you can handle. If it goes well, then you can consider a temporary foster situation. For any of it I would consider a written and signed contract for both parties, with your own terms of how you want to handle fostering and care, and eventual rehoming.

The ease and enjoyment will depend on saltys reaction, too.

Not to worry, Al: MBS eventually hits most everyone!

But seriously, this is a tough decision, and you are well equipped to make the best decision for all.

Wrench, I just when though a two plus week period of being contacted regarding available Amazons that are a sad combination of very young (under ten) and very sick (serious heart issues). To say the very least, I was deeply effected by this as they are the youngest Amazons I have seen this ill! In each case, the Owners all had excellent reasons (in their sick minds) why they needed to be done with the Amazon!

So, what the heck does that have to do with you taking on an additional Amazon. After all its only one! And clearly an Amazon likely very healthy and only needs attention! That is where the rub comes in here! You have the time for Salty and for the rest of your life! You have an intense relationship with Salty and the rest of your family (you're family is very close). You have adjusted your home to fit the needs of Salty and the rest of your family, etc, etc, etc....

We both will drop everything and make a run for the CAV's clinic when something is out of normal! We will make changes to our life and home when our Amazons have needs. All that said, will you be willing to cut 40% (or more) from the time with Salty and your family to add an additional member?

I know my answer to that and at this point in my life, I am not willing to cut back on those around me. Those I have made a promise too. Those that depend on me to be there not one moment less than I am today! At forty-five, you bet, I could easily make that happen. Today, my commitments are based on what time I have left and assuring that as long as I can, I can provide the complete me to each and everyone that depends on me!

I am involved with very special Amazons and the one (1) who currently owns us, needs us. That may sound somewhat cute, but I am very serious about have the energy and understanding the effects when one separates that energy to ever smaller pieces. Salty is a young Amazon and highly dependent on the continuation of that in his life at this point!

Yes, I have pulled at a huge number of heart-strings, but my goal was not to make it this heart-wrenching, but to present a different view.

'Boats this is brilliant. A very well written account that I've pinned to my toolbar for next time I see a sad IRN - In all reality, we're at capacity but I struggle with it.

Wowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww...
Wow.
All I can figure is... collect all data possible... wife's reactions, Salty's, meet said bird(s), keep fostering/rehab as possibility, consult all responsive spirits (yes, I'm serious), and then try whatever seems right. It can always be re-assessed, re-done, re-invented, right? So many needy birds, so few capable, willing people.
I've never been asked to take a bird in. Go figure.
You're a wonderful man and responsible bird-owner, Mr. Goodwrench.
I know we're all with you. Thanks for sharing this very personal subject.

lol Gail, i think the RB just intercepts any possible requests before they get a chance to get to you!

Since I got my second bird I admit to spending a whole lot less time with Bella and feel bad because of that, I tried to put them in the same room but Bella then started having watery droppings immediately (assume from stress) and would start moving around like crazy if I got up to leave the room then she would call for me.. all of this very unusual for her. Have them seperated now and I'm still thinking of ways to make this work. If the birds get along and salty enjoys the change I say go for it if not then ^^