Confronting the dog

[Siobhan]

Rocky seems to think it's funny to try to bite our dog, who does not think it's funny. He's also been very bitey with my husband the last couple of days. Today marks five weeks he's been with us and up until this weekend, was as sweet as could be. He did bite the dog once before, but we were right there and called the dog back. Jack snarled, but didn't bite back. Rocky has also figured out he can climb down and walk on the floor. Also not good. I'm beginning to fear we can't have both of them in the same house. Though Rocky has a good, sturdy California cage, it's old and some of the side bars are missing and we've tried several things to keep him confined in it when we need for him to stay in it, but he's an escape artist. I'm worried we'll both be gone and he'll get out and get into it with Jack.

 

[labell]

Cockatoos are well known for being escape artist. It sounds as if his cage needs to be replaced. While it is costly to get a good solid cage for a parrot that large it is worth the piece of mind imo. Not only would Rocky not fair well in a fight with Jack but if you weren't home there is a million other household dangers that could potentially harm Rocky.

 

[gracebowen]

The only thing I can suggest if you can t get a new cage right away. Is there any way you could make a room just for the bird. Nothing but bird stuff.

 

[Siobhan]

I have nine birds. The starling and canary have a room, and the other parrots and the pigeon have a room. There's no place left to put Rocky by himself, and I'm equally worried about the other birds if I put him in the room with them. He's far larger than they are.

 

[Giggleagain]

Do everything possible to get him a new cage. He's worth it, and so is your dog and your other birds. Let's not forget your peace of mind, that's worth it too!!!

 

[Scott]

What type of dog is Jack? While I would never trust the two unattended, some dog breeds are temperamentally not likely to accept parrots as "family."

I also suggest a new cage. Unless you have a room where he can safely exit and coexist with your other birds or the environment, there will be challenges and possibly trouble!

 

[thekarens]

I have the most mild mannered Maltese. They wouldn't hurt a flea. However, all my birds will try to bite them if they get too close and I have no doubt if they actually did bite them the dogs would bite back. It's a natural reaction even from the friendliest dogs.

 

[Siobhan]

Jack's a mutt of uncertain origin but he's good sized.