A Few Thoughts on Rescue, Rehab and Sanctuary
By Sally Blanchard

There are several basic, yet critically important functions for organizations devoted to the welfare of captive and companion parrots. These include:

  • The rescue of parrots from neglectful and abusive situations including "bad" bird shops, aviaries, homes, and other situations where they receive substandard care.
  • The possibly long-term rehabilitation of abused and/or neglected parrots to bring them to health and contentment through proper diet, a positive environment, gentle treatment, and veterinary care with proper quarantine and medical procedures.
  • The permanent sanctuary of aviary parrots who are no longer viable breeders.
  • The permanent sanctuary of parrots who don't have companion potential.
  • The logistics of finding new caring long-term homes for beloved companion parrots when their caregivers can no longer keep them or care for them properly.
  • Overseeing the adoption and re-homing of parrots with the potential to be good human companions.
  • To help educate new caregivers about their parrots' proper care.
  • Helping to educate the public about what constitutes an abusive situation in regards to captive parrots.
  • To work with and educate humane societies and other animal welfare organizations about what constitutes an abusive situation in regards to parrots.
  • To work with and help humane societies, animal control facilities and other authorities in the rescue of abused and neglected parrots.
Can any one organization do all of the above? Perhaps, but probably not as competently as if they defined their tasks more narrowly. Most of all, I believe the cooperation of various organizations is essential. Parrot welfare is no place for ego based politics and people in rescue organizations must understand and accept their own limitations. With cooperation among various groups, each could do what they do best and refer people to other groups that are stronger in their particular emphasis.

Most of all, it is critical for every person dealing with a rescue organization to understand the strengths of that group. Love is NOT enough - business "smarts" are essential. It is also critical that guidelines are established to weed out the collectors or "animal hoarders" masquerading as rescue organizations.

The most critical aspect in judging any animal rescue organization is if the animals in their care receive higher quality physical and emotional care than they did in their previous situations. If parrots live in substandard conditions in a rescue situation, the organization is simply not valid. I, personally, would not leave a parrot with any organization that did not allow me (or a trusted representative) to see their facility and evaluate the care their birds receive.
 

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