Bonnie McDermott

Thank You for your post. It was helpful. Clyde has become more trusting. He sticks his head out of the cage and bends down so I can pet him. Even if my hand is just lingering there he'll put his head under it so i can rub his neck and head. Odd because he still will not allow me near his chest/feet to teach "step up".

So I rescued a Grey that was kept in a warehouse for a pet store and he started to pluck himself. Since the day we brought him home there has been improvements. At first I wasn't allowed to go near the cage without him growling. As the days went on, he has allowed me in his cage to move things and put food in. However, if I came within 4 inches of him he would bite me. I have talked to him each day and he is taking treats from me and allowing me within an inch. He rarely bites as long as I stay that inch away. I would like to start working on "step up" with him. Any advice on what my next move should be? I was letting him out but it was so hard to get him back in without him doing the step up command. So, I don't know if it is better to allow him out and struggle to get him in or keep him inside until he steps up? Any advice would be appreciated

I also recently rescued a parrot from a friend who is a pet shop manager and told me she has an African Grey being kept in a warehouse with other animals that are not in selling condition. Never having a parrot before I was nervous but I figure he's better off with toys and people giving attention than in a warehouse. He says Pretty Bird and Meows occasionally. He settled in well and allows my hand in his cage. He does bite when I attempt step up or come within an inch to him. He likes to come out and play and whistles with me, but still does not allow me to work on the step up. What am I missing? Any help will be appreciated.