[mom24GR8TKids]

I Am registered with the American Red Cross and their animal therapy group. I will be going around to different nursing homes and hospitals with Katy my cockatiel. Does anyone else do this or heard of this any suggestions would be great!!!!

 

[xxxSpikexxx]

I have heard of this before. I use to take my Dog to my Grandma's retirement home, but he was not an official therapy dog. He just really loves people Is Katy clipped? I would think that would be best. Iam sure you know if she will make a good therapy pet. Spike my cockatiel is a one person bird.

 

[Laura]

I would say to just watch for any clues that she has had enough, birds are unlike dogs that way they can be more leery of certain people and when they have had enough they will let you know especially when they are hormonal.

 

[Keet1976]

I have heard of it with dogs, but not birds.......I think the cockatiel would be a good bird to do so with as long as you know your bird and of course it likes all people.

Keep us posted on how it goes, it is great that you are doing this!

 

[Aly]

I think it would be overall it's a good idea if they like other people. Mine love me but tend to be picky of others...sometimes VERY picky. Also, with hospitals what would concern me is germs that can easily be passed on. Bird's immune systems are alot less resistant then a dogs..

 

[Bea]

I think it's a great idea if Katy is a friendly tiel. I know none of mine would be good for the job because they're complete brats when there are unfamiliar people around. You should let us know how it goes! :thumbu:

Also, with hospitals what would concern me is germs that can easily be passed on. Bird's immune systems are alot less resistant then a dogs..

I don't think there are any zoonoses that begin with humans and pass to birds, definitely not common ones. Most start with birds (psittacosis for example).

 

[joe]

Bird's immune systems are alot less resistant then a dogs..

I would be more worried about the patients tbh. Can anything be caught from bird droppings? Apart from that, it seems like quite a good idea. Good luck with it

 

[Bea]

I would be more worried about the patients tbh. Can anything be caught from bird droppings? Apart from that, it seems like quite a good idea. Good luck with it

As long as the bird is healthy, no, but many birds (budgies and tiels in particular) carry psittacosis which can be picked up from inhaling dust from their feathers and droppings. The dust can cause allergies in a lot of people too, but as long at regular baths are offered to Katy that would be reduced.

 

[Aly]

I think animals in general have alot to offer. There was a study that petting an animal reduces blood pressure alot.

 

[Laura]

petting an animal reduces blood pressure alot.

Or sends it up higher if you have an Ollie or a Dooby :rofl:

 

[Aly]

Or sends it up higher if you have an Ollie or a Dooby :rofl:

lol...exceptions to every rule...:blush:

 

[xxxSpikexxx]

Or sends it up higher if you have an Ollie or a Dooby :rofl:

Mabey Dooby or Ollie should do pet therapy It would get the peoples hearts pumping better than exercising

 

[Plukie]

Dooby would come with a health warning.

WARNING: Petting Dooby will seriously hurt your fingers.

 

[Sophia]

Or dooby could have people therapy