Should I get a parrot?

[Parrot101]

I really want to get a parrot, but now I am having second thoughts. I have researched and read all about parrot ownership and think that I want one. However, my mother is unsure and there is a lot of things that pose as potential antecedents that are part of our daily lives (e.g. hairdryer, bleach, dogs, candles,...) that I have no control over. I think that my family is trying to downplay these hazards. I think that I could convince them that these are serious threats to a parrot, but I just do not know. I am also probably going to go off to college in a few years. I just do not think getting a parrot not would be fair to anyone, including the parrot itself. Does anyone ave any thoughts? Should I get a parrot?

 

[SailBoat]

At this point in your life you are faced with extensive changes that will place demands of your time and energy. Many of the changes will place you having to choose between having your Parrot or having to leave your Parrot.

When you are out of College and have your own place, that will be the time to bring a Parrot in to your life.

 

[Noahs_Birds]

I agree with Sailboat, that once you are finished college and have your own place that then you can bring a parrot into your life
If you want a good, easy pet, get yourself a Bearded Dragon or a snake, and I am telling you right now I had some of the happiest memories with my beardy Billy.
They are easy to cater for once set up properly, and will not suffer mental health problems if you go away like a parrot would, and they are very hardy
At this point in your life, I would not recommend putting you or the parrot in the same situation, so don't get a parrot until you are all set up
Thanks
Noah Till

 

[noodles123]

You will be miserable with a household that isn't fully convinced of all of the threats---I am over 30 and visiting my parents' home is a nightmare/power-struggle full of eye-rolls over this very same things (despite concrete documents from an avian vet stating that these ARE a big deal). I couldn't live with them with her...They will kill me, or her. They appease me temporarily when I visit, but I have to police them all day because they will try to sneak things (like I am making this stuff up!).

When you just have yourself and maybe a significant other (or you are the head of the house) you have much more control.

All of the things you mentioned about college and moving etc will all be real problems (as will all of the products used to clean the house, Teflon/PTFE/PFOA/PFCs, candles, air fresheners, smoke etc). Do not take the plunge until you have your own home and a job you plan to stick with (that doesn't require a lot of travel).

You are right to wait and it is commendable that you are being so responsible---they really are super sensitive (emotionally and chemically) and they live forever...PLUS, they are SUPER expensive when it comes to toys, vet bills etc...The cage and parrot are steep, but that is the tip of the iceberg long-term.

 

[Jen5200]

I agree with all of the above - glad you are researching and planning ahead. The hazards are real, and it can be heartbreaking to lose a bird to those hazards. Waiting could also give you an opportunity to work/volunteer at a bird store, rescue or other similar venue to gain some really valuable experience and knowledge prior to getting a parrot as well. Experience also can help to refine what type of parrot might suit you! I always thought I wanted a medium parrot, and discovered that I’m really a smaller bird person .

 

[Parrot101]

Thank you all for your advice and thoughts. I really appreciate it.

 

[Scott]

Deep respect for researching, reaching out, soul searching! Please read this magnificent thread written for young aspiring parronts: http://www.parrotforums.com/new-mem...-students-should-ask-before-getting-bird.html

 

[Parrot101]

After much more research and thought, I have decided that getting a parrot would not be the right thing at this point in my life:5_sad:. I will probably get a parrot after school and when I have my job and life has settled down.

 

[noodles123]

That is a very wise choice and both you and your future bird will be glad you waited. THANK YOU FOR BEING SOOOOOOO RESPONSIBLE and smart! You will be a great owner when the time comes!

 

[Jen5200]

After much more research and thought, I have decided that getting a parrot would not be the right thing at this point in my life:5_sad:. I will probably get a parrot after school and when I have my job and life has settled down.

I think it’s a wise choice - you are welcome hang out with us and talk parrots until the time is right for you to get one....lots to learn before the day comes .