how to examine a grey at a store?

[mpr86]

Hi everyone,

 

I'm planning on choosing a CAG (from a group of weaning 2-3 month olds) in a couple days and was wondering if I can get some suggestions as to how to examine and choose a healthy one. I will take him to a vet of course, however, I just wanted to see if there's any type of visual or physical examination I can perform beforehand at the pet shop, to minimize the chances of a problem in the future. My concerns are primarily to detect spraddle leg or any other type of physical abnormality.

 

Thanks in advance!

[Dave007]

A bird is born with spraddle leg which is actually called splayed leg/toes. It's not a condition that eventually develops. It's highly unlikly that you'll see any bird being sold for the going price with that condition. There aren't many things that YOU can actually do as far as a physical examination. More than likely, the salesperson/breeder will do whatever you ask. You can check to see that the beak is even over and under. The bottom beak shouldn't extend beyong the upper one. You can have the salesperson turn the bird on it's back so that you can observe the vent area to check for loose droppings that are present or stuck to the vent and tail feathers. You can ask that each wing be spread in order to check for bald or sore irritated areas near or on the body. You can do a visual to check to see if any plucking occurred. You should pick one that's on a perch, not sitting in a corner all huffed up. But you also understand that some things you might see are par for the course.

You will probably achieve what you want by immediately going to the vet who can check for the usual signs of baby birds and do it within the time lines of your guarantee/warranty/exchange contract.

Buying a bird lessens the chances of purchasing an inferior bird. The breeder knows the history of the parents, a pet store doesn't. Sickly, weak parents that are overbred produce chicks that aren't in prime condition. Let the vet be the judge of the bird's condition.

 

PS----the condition of splayed leg/toes can't be concealed.

 

Typing error

""Buying a bird lessens the chances of purchasing an inferior bird""

 

should be

 

""Buying a bird from a breeder lessens the chances of purchasing an inferior bird

 

 

Sorry about that.

 

Post edited by: Dave007, at: 2008/04/30 03:59<br><br>Post edited by: Dave007, at: 2008/04/30 17:30

[dblhelix]

Dave provides excellent advice. A good breeder/seller will allow you to bring the bird you choose for a vet check-up and if anything unexpected is found should refund you the money or allow you to choose another animal. Check your breeder/sellers policy on this before committing.

 

General things to look for:

- healthy feathers and skin

- clear nares w/o crusts etc

- clear alert eyes

- clear vent area w/o droppings stuck to feathers

- general alertness and interest in environment (but remember babies may be sleepy at some times of the day!)

- good beak and nail condition

- check feet/toes

- check wings (have them spread out)<br><br>Post edited by: dblhelix, at: 2008/05/02 04:21

[mpr86]

Thanks for the help guys!