Dealing with Anxiety About Dangers

Hello! I'm KC, a new member to the forums here (I have an introduction thread if you're interested.)

I don't have a parrot yet, but I am researching and preparing for when the day comes. Part of that is reading about all of the negatives to having a parrot and all of the things in your everyday life that you need to give up or change because of how dangerous they are for your birds.

Giving things up or getting rid of them is easy, but what about the things that you can't change and just need to monitor carefully instead? Do you experience anxiety over the dangers?

I've been reading horror stories about mistakes or things overlooked that have led to parrot deaths. I can barely read them through the tears and they terrify me.

Do any of you experience anxiety or obsessive compulsiveness over the dangers in your house?

How would I deal with a spark of fear every time I hear a door or window open, or someone using the toilet because I'm afraid they might not latch the door properly or put the seat down when they are done in the bathroom.

And that's just the beginning! So many dangers. So much vigilance required to check and recheck everything.

How can you learn to do everything you need to do to keep your parrot safe while maintaining your sanity?

Hello KC It would be nice if we could all put our parrots in a bubble for safety. But they are social creatures that have many complex needs. One of the most important one is safety. It is our job as a guardian to provide for their safety as best we can. You have taken the first step and educated yourself. Be sure evenyone in your home is understanding of these needs too. Personally, I did not and do not experience any anxiety related to any of my Rosie's needs. It is usually the unexpected things that get them into trouble. I never understood why people put their birds on the floor. Feet can injure or kill a bird. If you are worried about the bird flying out the door clip the wings. Try not to have the bird out of the cage in a room where the outside door may be opened. Romove all teflon products, candles, plug ins, people that smoke cigarettes and have working smoke alarms/carbon monoxide detector. It is a matter of understanding their safety needs and as you said constant vigilance.

Be Prepared!!

Know what you should have in a bird first aid kit and have one nearby. It is a very good idea to have a suitable carring cage nearby in case of emergency and you need to get out fast.

Thanks, Spiritbird. I think that's what I needed to hear.

I am just way too worried! Having all of this time ahead to prepare and bird-proof the house and our lives before we are ready to get a bird leaves me too much time to think and get myself worked up by reading stories about sad endings.

I guess I need to take a deep breath and know that I'm going to do the very best I can for our little one.