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Since my husband is still living in Kentucky and I have been alone with Louie most of the time since I brought him home, I decided to make an effort to get him out and about to meet other people before he gets too much older. So, today we packed up and went to visit some of my friends at the local senior center. Needless to say Louie was a hit and has been asked to return for more socializing visits. It took him a few minutes to settle into new faces, but before long he was being passed like a warm potatoe and praised with each step up as if he was King for a Day. One gentleman in particular interested Louie -- he was wearing a red baseball cap, had a moustache and glasses -- and he was on oxygen so he was his tubes...ohhhhhh...Louie was just aching to UP UP for him!!!!!
Well, the man wanted to hold Louie and his hands trembled quite a bit so I held his hand so Louie could have a stable perch. Needless to say the man suddenly pulled off his oxygen so he could played with Louie up close. The man was so happy and excited that he almost cried as Louie climbed all over him and finally got on his head and was surfing his hair. This wife was so excited she was trying to take cell-phone pictures of the two of them. It wasn't long before Louie would hop over to his side of the table and just climb up on his hand regardless of the tremmers.
Just wanted to share a great experience...Louie drew a crowd and the center said they'd reserve a room anytime for him to visit. We will be starting to learn a few tricks soon so I think his new "audience" will be thrilled. They were amazed at him just playing on his back with a toy.

What a wonderful story and a great 'social' outing for Louie. Getting them out and about is absolutely the best way to keep them friendly and adaptable to new situations and new faces! It's especially important to do this while they're young, but it can certainly be helpful even when they get older. Good for you!

I used to take Beaker to the grocery store, the Post Office, to Home Depot, you name it. He went everywhere with me (and still does, but just not quite as often.) He loves attention.

Like Sally Blanchard's 'SPIKE', it sounds like Louie could be the "bird who would be king", even if it's only every now and then!
Thanks for sharing a great experience!
ANdrea

K

I am a chef at a retirement/AL home and have seen many of these visits with animals. They are a blessed exp for the seniors and mean so very much to them. Its awesome that Louie has the temperament for this. Maybe it will become part of his life work - you should be proud!!!

Freddy

Thanks for the encouragement. I think Louie will enjoy the visits and I know it will be good for him to have the added attention and variety.
After I brought Louie home I enrolled my dog in a Pet Paws program where he and I will visit hospice patients. I wanted to make sure my first little guy had some special time too. He has always been super with all ages and currently visits a woman who, due to falls and hip injuries, has been shut in for the better portion of the year. I think both of them get a great deal out of the visit - Max (my little dog) really thrives on attention. He has been the neighborhood dog that teaches the little kids how to safely approach, pet, and play with a dog since he arrived here four years ago. Wow, it is funny to think back on all the kids he's "trained" and how they have grown from toddlers to full-size kids.
Anyway - thanks again for the kind comments.

What a cool story! People love dogs and cats, but seem VERY interested when a parrot is in the room. It's something new and exciting!

Cheers to you and Louie!!

yeah Michele

They really do attract the most attention at any visit that Ive seen. We had a lady that brought her U2 in, she was a very kind and patient bird - and you could feel the anticipation from the seniors as they awaited their turn to hold her. I find it strange that birds have declined in popularity as pets. Especially when there are such amazing creatures as Caiques in the world!!!!

Freddy

Most people can't afford the 700-900 price tag. I know I am blessed to have my caique!!! Keep up the good work.........Nanc