trying a new approach to harness training

[ShellyBorg]

So I have a Quaker that has never worn a harness and I wanted to try something. I got one of my thicker ponytail bands and slipped it over her head. She went nuts rolling around much like a dog the first time you try to walk with a leash. I let her roll and fight it and as soon as she stopped to get a breath I had her step up. She did out of shock then anything. I worked on step ups for a few then vay matter of fact removed it. Waited a hour and tried it again.
Again she fought it and roll but for a much shortened time. Again as soon as she stopped she got to do step ups then lots of head pets. I removed it after pkaying with her wings a bit then let her go back to her cage.

It was nice not worrying about sizing it and nothing on tne body. I think if we can get her to wear the head band it will be half the battle when time to put the harness on.

 

[Agapornis]

I think you're on to something, ShellyBorg. My little guy will tolerate his harness, but he still struggles with the neck loop. Im going to try the pony tail holder thing, we'll see if it helps!

 

[BillsBirds]

Interesting approach!

 

[BoomBoom]

My sun conure also would not tolerate the harness touching him. The first and only time I put the loop over his head, he pretty much did what your bird did. Ran and climbed like he was being chased by a predator. This was after a long period of introduction. 3 months later, he still hated the thing.

Let us know how your method works. Honestly it has crossed my mind to do it this way because the patient and soft approach is not getting us anywhere lol. I am just worried of any long term effects on the bird such as trust issues, phobias, etc.

Agapornis, did your GCC stop letting you put the harness on him or would he still wear it? I remember you use to take him out on walks with it? Did he just stop liking the harness out of the blue?

 

[ShellyBorg]

So far this is working great! The only time she gets sunflowers is when she will wear the hair band around her neck. She even ducked into it yesterday!