Over the last two years I have taken more birds and parrots in than I can remember. Every day I get phone calls and emails asking me to take a bird into my home. Usually, I have to turn down most of these requests simply because I am overloaded with rehabilitating and caring for a number homeless pets. Paying for this out of my pocket leaves me with very little to work with. As a way to fund my activities I started a specialty pet shop online to help pay for everything I need to care for these birds. So many people here in Michigan have lost their jobs or have had significantly reduced income. One of the first expenses to get cut from the family budget is the pet bird or parrot. Not only because parrots can cost a lot of money to care for, but many have to move into homes or apartments where noisy pets are not allowed. Unfortunately, many of these parrots are not in good condition. Many people buy a parrot and fail to care for them properly. This makes finding a good home for a parrot with a poor disposition and or health problems almost impossible. Avian veterinarian visits are expensive and parrots need lots of extra special care and interaction. The time it takes to get a parrot ready for a new home varies greatly. Parrots have very good memories and forget little about their past. This is why it takes compassion and dedication to help rehabilitate a pet parrot and to find it a new suitable home. Before you run out and buy a parrot or bird ask yourself, Am I ready for the long term commitment? Parrots can easily outlive their owners and they certainly do not live by “Dog Years”. If you are, consider adopting a parrot from a rescue first. Not only will this put a needy bird into a good home, it will also slow down the prolific captive breeding of birds that eventually end up homeless.