Why Should I Adopt a Bird Instead of Purchasing one?

We know it seems easier to just pop into the pet store and buy a bird right when you want one instead of going through an adoption process, paperwork and waiting for the bird you want. However, adopting vs shopping can quite literally be the life or death of a bird…

• Nearly all big chain pet stores utilize large scale breeding mills to acquire their birds.

  These mills are filthy, and packed to the brim with birds who are used solely for breeding and are used up until they die. Then, the baby birds are generally weaned from their mother far earlier than they should be in order to “hand tame” the birds. This detrimental step often leads baby birds to die in or before they even get to pet stores. However, supply and demand keeps these mills in business.

• The average parrot will go through seven homes throughout its lifetime.

  When people purchase birds, they generally don’t know what they are up against. This makes Parrots one of the most commonly re-homed pet in the U.S.. A pet stores mission is to make caring for any animal sound easy, otherwise they wouldn’t make money.

• When adopting from a rescue, you are adopting a parrot that has gone through extensive veterinary care. All surrendered birds at SAAS are seen by an avian and held for 30 days before they are eligible for adoption. If a bird suffers serious medical problems, they will be a permanent resident of the rescue where their health is monitored closely throughout their lifetime. The rescue does their due diligence to be transparent about any health problems. Part of the adoption fee ensures that you know the health of the bird. The same cannot be said for pet stores.

• A rescue works hard to find each individual or family their best fit for a companion bird.

  This ensures that the humans and parrots are happy which increases a greater likelihood of a long term companion for both parties.

• People who volunteer and work with rescues are much more experienced and educated in the realm of parrot care vs those who work in chain pet stores.

  This ensures that you can rely on the information you are given from a rescue and have support along the way.

• Your adoption fee goes towards helping other sick and injured birds, instead of someones pockets.

  When you adopt you are supporting rescues with a mission - to save animals. When you shop, you are supporting a corporation with a mission - to make more money.