upatsix.com - Your Source For Pet Bird Information

Hi all. I haven't been in in awhile-got my dream job and bought a house with land. Life's good! My husband and I are only in our thirties (33 & 36), but I am trying to make arrangements for Rowdy, my 7yo BH, in case something ever happened to both of us. Family and friends would provide good homes for the horses, mules, snakes, and dogs, but none are bird people. I occasionally have a rescue bird come in, but Rowdy is my only permanent resident. I would appreciate any advice you could offer. I have looked into some of the sanctuaries and foundations (like The Gabriel Foundation, etc.), but I want to be sure I make the right decision. He has been a part of my (and now ours) life for so long it makes me nervous thinking of his future without us. I hope it is something he never has to deal with but better safe than sorry. Thanks! Tandy

Tandy, I have thought about the same thing, only I just turned 55. I don't have any family that has an afinity for birds and it has only been the last 3 years that I have been able to be owned by them. I belong to a lovebird forum and I have been thinking about asking one of the people on the forum if she would take my 2 lovebirds as she has a bird room and is owned by 2 lovies. I don't know what I would do with my p'let because she doesn't like anyone but me. And my BH is only 7 months old and is such a love but requires a lot of time and effort. Just feeding him is like having to worry about feeding a young child! But...where do you live with all of that land?

Honestly, I think that the best plan would be to continue to develop friendships online and ask a special friend that we have grown to respect and identify with to become the caretaker of our beloved birds.

I worry about the same thing. I had made arrangements with a friend who owns a parrot store to take my birds and find homes for them, in the event that something happened suddenly and I was not able to make arrangements. But now I worry that she is just too busy with all that she has to do.

I have made many new friends that have birds just from shopping at different bird stores and also through breeders that I know. You could also see if there is a bird club in your area or go to local bird fairs to meet people.

Hi Tandy
If you positively know someone who would take your bird for you, I would do some basic paperwork, have it signed, notarized and give it to your attorney, estate guardian, etc.

If you aren't sure (positively), I would do just as you have and make arrangements with The Gabriel Foundation. They will care for Rowdy long after you are gone and you can be assured he will forever be taken care of.
Andrea