Most people think of veterinarians as animal doctors, and some may even believe that if they have any common pet, they can take them to whatever vet clinic is the most convenient, but if you have birds as pets, it is not that simple. Since dogs and cats are the most common, many vet clinics don't regularly treat other types of animals. If you need medical care for your birds, you need an avian veterinarian that can handle your bird's unique health needs. That's why our team at Westside Animal Clinic in Spring Hill is here to help.
Who Needs an Avian Veterinarian?
If you have birds as pets, at some point, they will need an avian veterinarian. This is true whether you keep a chicken coop in your backyard, have a canary in your kitchen, or a macaw in your bedroom. While some people keep their birds almost exclusively in their cages, others let them fly in a safe area. Just like dogs and cats, these pet birds bring an extra layer of enrichment to our lives, and we owe it to them to ensure they are cared for when sick.
Doing your Part When Your Bird is Sick
When your bird is sick, it is natural to keep a close eye on them, but it is more important than ever to have the basics of what they need. One of the main components of this is keeping their day vs. night schedule. Most caged birds should have 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness each day. You also need to make sure he or she is getting adequate food and water, and they should also stay confined to their cage.
When a bird is ill, they are under a lot of stress, and it is up to you as a pet owner to keep that stress under control as much as possible. If you have multiple birds, be sure to keep the sick bird in their own area, preferably a different room, and keep an eye on your other birds just in case. If he or she continues to act not like himself or is not eating and drinking properly, it is time to head back to our avian veterinarian.
Contact Us for Vet Care for Your Bird in Spring Hill
When you bring your bird to Westside Animal Clinic, our avian veterinarian will be able to diagnose the problem and let you know how contagious your bird may be to other birds or even to you. We can provide medication and instruction, and if necessary, we can admit your bird to the animal hospital for more intense care. However, like other pets, prevention is the best care, so regular checkups are recommended to help keep your bird in the best health possible. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment for your feathered friend, contact us at Westside Animal Clinic Veterinary Services in Spring Hill, FL at (352) 683-1512 today.
