buster

Buster a 7 yr old CAG has been with me for two years now. His owner, a life long friend got sick and went up north to be with family for a while. I had previous bird experience and was baby sitter to Buster previously so it was like taking in a bird-nephew. We actually bonded fairly quickly and Buster was a happy healthy member of the family that enjoyed being in whatever room I was. His colors became perfect! He learned how to fly while with me and was starting to get into fun teaching sessions in which you could tell he was really trying to learn. He loves to dance to everything from The Jeffersons Theme song to Rhianna! His real dad came for one visit in those two years. That visit was the only time Buster ever bit me. Right on the lip! (Which ended our lip kisses) Fast forward to today. His "real" Dad has moved back to Tampa and is staying with me while he gets on his feet. Naturally, Buster was over the top happy to have him back. I know that greys tend to be one person animals so I gave him lots of space. I'm happy that he has rebonded with his owner and even expected some aggression after that first visit but his ENTIRE personality has changed. He has lunged at me a few times.... But now, an otherwise active, involved bird sits in his cage all day waiting for "real" dad to come home, I guess. After the initial agression, I've been very gentle giving him opportunities every day to interact with me but he mostly acts afraid of me! This is a bird that followed me from room to room and insisted on daily head scratching time. Now, when I approach him he pins a little and slightly backs up - the exact same behavior as when he is approached by a stranger. Anyway, I'm still the one giving him most of his daily care. Real dad works long hours and doesn't have much time at night for Buster. Real dad walks in, Buster goes into endless mating dance mode, gets a treat and goes to bed. I was pretty strict about diet, fruits, veggies, high end feed, etc. Real dad gives him sips of mountain dew and ice cream. (If spoiling with junk has an effect). SO........Grey Parents Everywhere..... What is the best way for me to respond to Buster? Is it a lost cause now that his primary bond is back? I know I can't force a bond but getting him into a healthy routine again would sure be nice. I hate seeing him just sit in his cage all day. Thanks in advance for advice!

Buster's real dad is ready for him to move to Iowa from Tampa. It's a long way to fly. Does anyone have suggestions on the best/safest way to get there?

I have been Buster's foster parent for several months now. We have made a lot of progress, but I just can not interest him in bathing. We have tried the shower (ended quite badly), a misting bottle and his own shallow tub. Nothing works. We have actually worked our way up to him sitting on the shower curtain rod to watch me. I flap my wings and whistle his favorite songs and basically act like a complete dork to inspire him but all it takes is one stray sprinkle of water and he's gone. He's so super dusty all the time and his feet definitely need to be cleaner. Any suggestions for my dirty boy?

Buster and I inherited each other 3 months ago and have bonded famously. He is 10 years old and very well adjusted but he just doesn't like any of his toys. He gets excited about two things, the remote and yogurt cups. He so wants to shred a yogurt cup after we share the treat but I'm worried about safety. Would it be ok? Any suggestions?