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What and Why – Pet Bird Cage Accessories
By Wyld’s Wingdom
Your pet bird’s environment is a vital part of its wellbeing, and once you have selected the proper pet bird cage, the next step is choosing accessories. Imagine living in a house without any dishes, no comfortable places to sit, and no color or decorations. This is what an unaccessorized cage feels like to your pet bird.
Pet birds eat throughout the day and require fresh water at all times. Choose feeding cups and bowls that are an appropriate size for your bird and are easily cleaned and sanitized. One option for feeding is the Tidy Seed Birdfeeder, which attaches inside or outside of the cage and helps contain the mess that birds often make by sorting and tossing seeds and hulls. These clear acrylic feeders have a built in perch and are easily removed for cleaning. Other options are stainless steel bowls, crocks with wire holders that attach to the cage and even specially designed treat and millet holders. Consider having multiple bowls on hand so there is always a clean bowl ready to go.
 Tidy Seed No Mess Bird Feeder Birds enjoy bathing! Bathing is important for pet birds because it stimulates preening. The bathing and preening process is one that is very healthy for birds. Most birds delight in bathing by splashing in a bird bath filled with tepid water. Bathing allows them to clean themselves to promote feather and skin health. Be sure whenever your bird bathes, they are able to air-dry in a warm environment so they don’t get sick.
The “furniture” for your bird’s home is next. Perches are important to pet birds, as they provide different vantage points and interest. It’s always best to choose a cage with extra space to allow for perches at several different levels. You’ll need to select the appropriate sized perches for your bird’s feet – the wrong size can cause foot injury and arthritis. Swings and ladders can be a source of activity for a pet bird, adding some interest to the environment. Snugglies and snoozies are a nice addition to the cage as well, providing a safe and cozy place for the bird to sleep. You’ll also want to have cover to put over the cage at night, especially if noise and light will prevent the bird from getting a good night’s rest.
 JW InSight Bird Bath Just as you have favorite colors and decorations in your home, along with plenty of gadgets to keep you occupied, birds need stimulation and entertainment in their cage. Toys let curious birds play and investigate new textures, colors and challenges. There are pet bird toys for all sizes of birds, and you will find that your bird has favorites. Try out a rotation of different toys to expose your bird to rope toys, chew toys, puzzles (which simulate foraging in the wild), mirrors, brightly colored acrylic toys, and climbing toys and get a feel for what your bird finds exciting and fun.
Keep your bird’s safety in mind when choosing bird cage accessories, and always check to see how your accessories are holding up. It’s important to keep the cage and accessories clean and check for damage from playing and chewing on a regular basis.
Now that your bird’s home is furnished and accessorized with some of the basics, you should find that you have a healthy and happy companion. Sit back and watch your bird enjoy his new home.
How to Travel with a Pet Bird-Part 2
By Wyld’s Wingdom
Getting Your Bird Ready for Travel
Working with your bird well in advance of planned travel is the best way to reduce stress, as you get him acclimated to the idea and comfortable with his portable environment. It’s important to get your bird used to the car and his travel equipment, such as the carrier. You can keep the carrier near your bird’s cage at home with free carrier access and let him explore. If your bird has not used a water bottle or stand, start acclimating your bird to them at home so he knows how to use them. If your bird has never used a water bottle before, monitor the water level in the bottle and your bird’s activities to avoid dehydration when trying to acclimate to the water bottle. If your bird does not learn to use the water bottle, you may need to use a deep water crock and plan for possible spills during travel. If you plan to use a harness on your trip, this is another thing you should familiarize your bird with before the trip.
 Prevue Hendryx Collapsible White Travel Cage If you are taking a driving trip, you’ll need to begin taking your bird on short excursions in the car to get him used to the sights and sounds. This is also the right time to see how your equipment works out – check to see that toys are safely installed, look for any chewing damage to the carrier after short trips, check clips and locks, ensure that things don’t move around too much within the cage and your bird is secure. It’s a good idea to keep your bird’s travel carrier safely strapped into a seat where he can see and hear you or other family members for reassurance. The back seat is preferable for your bird’s carrier, since airbags are a risk. Remember to monitor heating and air conditioning vents so they are not blowing directly on your bird. Just as with kids or other pets, do not leave your bird unattended in the car. Never let your bird loose in the car – you don’t want him to escape out a window or when a door is opened.
Your bird should be in good health when you set out on your trip. If you are flying or driving to another state, you may be required to obtain a health certificate for your bird prior to your trip and carry it with you. You may also want to have his wings clipped for safety, as well as having nails trimmed.
Travel Arrangements and Details
Every trip you take with your bird will be different, and depending on your mode of travel and destination there will be various details to take care of. If you are traveling by air, you’ll need to check with your airline about their pet travel policies. Be sure to plan well in advance, and find out where your bird is allowed to travel (under the seat, caged in a purchased seat, in the cargo hold) and what carrier requirements the airline has. Carefully consider the options available to you with each airline and make the best choice for your bird.
 Kings Cages No Stress 6 oz. size International travel has its own set of preparations, as each country has policies and regulations on live animal imports. Your bird may be subject to a period of quarantine upon arrival, and will require a health certificate. For more detailed information on specific countries, www.pettravel.com is a good place to start. Be sure to check directly with the governing body of your destination country as well.
If hotel stays will be required, you’ll want to research bird-friendly accommodations well in advance. Let the hotel know you’ll be bringing your bird when you make your reservations, and check on any pet policies and required deposits so there are no surprises when you arrive. These websites featuring pet-friendly travel resources can help you plan your trip:
www.gopetfriendly.com
www.pettravelcenter.com
www.travelpets.com
www.petswelcome.com
Safe and enjoyable travel with your bird does take planning and attention to detail, but it’s worth it to share your trips with a happy and healthy companion.
Birds are Family Too – Tips on How to Travel with a Pet Bird – Part 1
By Wyld’s Wingdom
Pet-friendly travel is a growing segment of the travel industry, but most people simply think of travelers bringing a dog or cat along when they hit the road. According to a 2012 report by the American Veterinary Medicine Association, there are over 8 million pet birds in the U.S. Many bird owners consider their feathered friends part of the family and would like to bring them along when they travel. Of course, there are also times like a family relocation when it’s necessary to travel with a pet bird as you move to a new home.
 Your feathered friend can now travel stress free in the Caitec Perch & Go clear bird carrier Travel with a pet bird can be done, but it’s essential to plan ahead and take a number of factors into consideration. Bird owners will need to get their bird ready for travel, make sure they have the proper equipment and supplies on hand for the trip, plan for climate and other environmental conditions, research any legal requirements for transporting their bird into other states or countries, check airline regulations if flying and make arrangements for bird-friendly accommodations on the road.
Bird Supplies and Equipment You Will Need
Whether driving or flying, there are some basic items you’ll need:
- A safe travel carrier is essential for your bird. The carrier should be large enough for your bird to turn around, and should always have a properly sized, sturdy perch mounted low.
- A dripless water bottle and appealing treats for the carrier
- A perch or stand to attach to the carrier is great for use in the hotel room.
- A variety of pet bird toys that are familiar to the bird and can be used at the destination.
- When actually traveling, the toy must be one that does not swing about
- with the motion of the vehicle so that the bird is not injured during
- transit.
- Food, water and snacks for your bird – If you are packing fresh fruits and veggies, make sure you have a way to keep them from spoiling, such as a small insulated bag or cooler with cold packs.
- Harness
- Cage cover or towel
- Cleaning products such as spot removers, wipes and paper towels (remember the 3 oz. rule for liquids when flying)
- First aid kit containing styptic powder in case of broken feathers, beak or nails
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Pet Bird Play Gyms made out of natural Dragonwood.
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Recommended for small and medium size birds (Conures, Parrots, Amazons, Small Cockatoos and Mini-Macaws).
Play Gyms for Birds – More than Just Fun
By Wyld’s Wingdom
Bird owners know that their pets are intelligent, curious creatures that need mental stimulation and varied activities. Being in a cage 24/7, no matter how well-equipped, does not provide enough variety and play time for a bird. Lack of stimulation can lead to undesirable behaviors such as feather plucking and screaming, as well as general unhappiness. This is why play gyms are an important bird care accessory for many bird owners.
Bird gyms provide an out-of –the-cage experience that is fun and allows the bird to feel like he’s part of the family. Working bird owners can use the play gym as a regular part of the daily routine in the morning or evening. Helping the bird adjust to spending time on the play gym allows the bird to see and be a part of what’s going on around him, but also play independently.
In order to stimulate and entertain the bird, the play gym needs to be interesting and fun. There should be a variety of toys and activities incorporated into the play gym. Also be sure the play gym is appropriately sized for the bird – look at perch sizes and general scale of the play gym components. Find a spot for the play gym that is near family activities, such as dining, doing homework or watching TV. Any bird will benefit from the addition of play gym time on a regular basis.
Tips for Keeping Your Pet Birds Warm in Winter
By Wyld’s Wingdom
As the weather cools down, it’s important to remember that birds need additional care in winter. Many of our exotic and pet bird breeds are originally from warm, tropical climates and cold temperatures can be a health challenge. Here are a few guidelines for pet bird owners to keep in mind during cooler temperatures that will help them keep their pet birds healthy and happy.
Bird owners should move the cage to a draft free location, away from windows and doors. Moving your bird’s cage to a central location in the home can make a big difference in keeping deadly drafts and cold air away from sensitive birds. Shrink-wrap insulation kits can be used on windows and unused doorways in winter to keep cold air out and warm air in. Increasing the humidity indoors in winter is also good for birds, eliminating dryness and excess dander.
 Keep Your Pet Birds Warm with a Cozy Snugglie Remember that birds are sensitive to smoke and fumes that can come from wood, gas or kerosene heaters. Some electric heaters are treated with a non-stick coating, which can create fumes that are deadly to birds. Some radiator-style electric heaters can be effective, but be sure to check on possibly harmful coatings.
Bird owners should definitely have a cage cover on hand. Covering the cage at night will help keep birds cozy. Some birds enjoy snugglies and snoozies to help keep them warm at night. Heat lamps can be used, and infrared bulbs will create a glow that does not interfere with the bird’s sleep cycle. It’s important to choose only a bird-safe heat lamp recommended for avian use. Pay attention to the bulbs used in the heat lamp – any bulbs coated with polytetrafluoroethylene can emit toxic fumes when overheated. There are also ceramic heating elements that can be used for birds – from those that clamp onto the cage to heat panels that are placed around the cage. These are specifically designed for animal and avian use. Infrared heat panels that attach to the cage are also an energy-efficient way to keep your bird cozy this winter.
 Comforting warmth and shelter for pet birds. In addition to keeping your bird warm, you’ll want to ensure that heating your home doesn’t result in a lack of humidity. If so, there are a few simple things you can do to provide the proper conditions for your bird. Regular baths, showers or light misting should be continued throughout the winter months. You can also increase humidity in the home by using a vaporizer or humidifier designed for birds. Other options include placing shallow pans of water on radiators or in the oven when you’re pre-heating it, or simply leaving the bathroom door open when you shower to allow the steam into the house.
Feeding your bird a healthy, vitamin-rich dietthroughout the year will help boost its immune system and stay healthier despite changes in temperature. Bird owners should make sure the winter diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables to maintain optimal health.
Of course, keeping a watchful eye on pet birds throughout the winter is important. As you make changes to your bird’s environment, be on the lookout for signs of overheating, such as panting, extended neck or holding the wings away from the body. Also keep an eye out for signs of any health problems – exposure to cold temperatures can lower the bird’s immunity and result in illness. At any time of year, simple bird care and monitoring will ensure that pet birds stay healthy and happy.
Wholesale Pet Bird Supply Specialist – What Do They Bring To The Table?
By Wyld’s Wingdom
When stocking a bird department or a specialty bird shop, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the products available. There are specialty products for birds of all sizes, and supplies such as cages, food, supplements, toys, and educational materials, to name a few. Some are high-quality and made by reputable manufacturers, while others are not. It’s impossible to stock everything, yet how do you know where to begin? A great bird department or shop should have a carefully chosen selection of quality products that bird owners are looking for.
There are many sources of information in the avian world, and it’s important to find knowledgeable experts with years of experience in the industry to tap into for the best information on bird supplies, products, care and trends. Birds are amazing and complicated creatures, and in order to have a successful bird-related business, it’s important to have reputable sources to turn to. Working with wholesale pet bird supply specialists is the first step in building and maintaining an avian business that pet bird owners trust and will return to consistently.
Mary Wyld, of bird supply wholesaler Wyld’s Wingdom explains, “We are bird lovers who opened our doors in 1986 and have remained committed to providing our retailers with the best information and advice on all things bird. Over the years we have passed on our knowledge of and experience in bird care, safety and wellness, along with staying on top of industry trends and building relationships with quality manufacturers that we trust. What’s great is that we pass all of that along to our customers, who in turn pass it on to their customers – the bird owners.” Wyld points out that this is a win-win situation – everyone from the successful retailer to the customer to the birds themselves benefits from the wholesaler’s dedication.
Experienced pet bird supply wholesalers stock quality products from manufacturers  Wholesale Pet Bird Supplies with solid reputations. There will always be fly-by-night companies trying to cash in on trends in the pet industry, but those with knowledge of bird health and potential dangers in new or cheaply made products will pass on doing business with them. The focus should be on providing quality products that enhance the lives of pet birds, because happy birds bring happy customers back to their retail source.
It’s essential to stay on top of discoveries in the world of avian health and wellness as well. From healthy diets to supplements to toys that stimulate pet birds’ minds – a quality wholesaler will know what’s new and important to pass along to bird owners. There will always be new and better formulas, creative ideas and enhanced safety features in new products, and an expert wholesaler can advise retailers on what’s important to carry now.
Wyld encourages retailers to look for wholesale pet bird supply specialists who offer great service and advice and are easy to communicate with. “We really take our retailers ‘under our wing’ and assist them in putting together a bird department that features the best selection of products. We know what’s important to bird health and what consumers are looking for,” Wyld says. “The bottom line is, if our retailers are a success, then we have succeeded too.”
 Avian Fashions Birdie Hoodie Is Your Pet Bird Happy?
By Wyld’s Wingdom
Birds are unique non-domesticated animals that we oftentimes share our lives with. Their individuality and intricate nature makes them exciting and entertaining pets. Kept birds do have special needs though in order to ensure their happiness remains at optimal levels when kept in captivity. Here’s a list of essential steps to keeping a happy and healthy pet bird:
• Space
Birds are creatures that are adapted to movement and flying. Be sure to house them in the largest enclosure possible in lieu of open sky.
• Exercise
Similar to the above space, birds need a safe space to fly in for daily exercise. This should be out-of-cage in a designated area away from other pets or hazards for your bird. You can also provide a harness or other type of secure enclosure so your pet can enjoy the outside with you!
• Entertainment
As highly intelligent creatures, birds need entertainment to sustain them. You should offer a variety of changing bird toys to decrease boredom and try to socialize them with other birds and humans for enrichment. You can also teach your bird skills or develop games to cultivate intelligence and learning. Talk to a professional at your local pet store for ideas or resources for bird training games.
• Diet
Feed your bird a healthy and varied diet that includes seeds, grains, beans, fruit, cooked and raw veggies, and formulated pellets. Another critical part of their diet should be access to sunlight, as birds need vitamin D to promote bone health.
• Bathing
Birds enjoy bathing! Each week provide a small container filled with water to allow them to clean themselves or you can also lightly mist your bird with a small spray bottle full of water to promote feather and skin health. Be sure whenever your bird bathes, they are able to air-dry in a warm environment so they don’t get sick.
• Flock Time
As social creatures with an inquisitive nature, birds enjoy company. By placing bird stands throughout your house, your bird can join you and observe your activities for “flock time.”
Bird ownership can be a rewarding activity by building and sharing your home environment with an intelligent pet. Making sure your bird has what it needs to thrive is essential in a happy and healthy pairing.
The Importance of Pet Bird Perches and Stands
By Wyld’s Wingdom
Perches and stands are important parts of a pet bird’s environment. But one simple perch won’t provide the benefits that a variety of perches and stands can. Birds need different shapes and sizes of perches and stands for exercise and foot health, as well as adding interest to their world. Perches can be uniform in shape – circular, rectangular, or oval – and come in a variety of sizes. Bird owners should purchase the size that is designed for their bird. Irregular shaped perches are usually made of branches, which simulate a more natural environment.
 The Percher by Caitec
Rope and other flexible types of perches give birds a different type of surface to hop onto, and swings provide exercise and fun. Having a stand for a bird to use outside of the cage is also a good idea. It is a safe spot for the bird to observe and participate in family activities. Shower perches are great for bathing pet birds or allowing them to enjoy the humidity of the bathroom when showering. Shower perches can also be attached to a window.
Perches with coarse surfaces are beneficial for nail and beak conditioning, but shouldn’t be the only type of perch provided. These surfaces can be too rough on a bird’s feet if they have to spend long periods of time on them.
Birds are naturally curious creatures, and will want to have a variety of vantage points to keep their eye on what’s going on, as well as comfortable and safe places to rest and sleep. Perches and stands also create an environment that encourages exercise and activity. All of these factors add to the health and well-being of any bird.
Why are There so Many Types of Pet Bird Toys?
 Double Doily By Wyld’s Wingdom
The variety of pet bird supplies and specifically bird toys on the market today might seem like overkill to new pet bird owners, but those experienced in avian behavior and care know that different types of bird toys are made for a reason. Just like children, birds have likes and dislikes when it comes to toys. Birds also enjoy variety to keep their interest piqued (again, just like your children do), and different toys stimulate important bird behaviors that are exhibited in the wild.
It’s important to narrow your selection to those toys that are the appropriate size for the bird. Toys should be non-toxic and able to withstand chewing, rough play and cleaning.
Birds enjoy a wide range of activities, and bird owners can be on the lookout to see which types of toys their bird might enjoy. Some toys provide comfort by allowing cuddling and snuggling, some require manipulation and problem solving, while others encourage preening. Foraging toys encourage birds to work for their food, as they would in the wild; while exercise toys like swings and ladders promote physical activity. Foot toys allow birds to hold and grasp, building dexterity through an enjoyable activity. Chewing toys are also important, and bird owners should know that these toys will be destroyed and need to be replaced.
It’s a good idea to have a rotation of toys for pet birds to prevent boredom. Changing out the toys on a regular basis also allows the bird owner to clean and inspect toys for damage and wear. The stimulation and activity provided by a variety of toys make a significant contribution to the happiness and health of any pet bird.
Pet Bird Care – Bathing and Preening
The bathing and preening process is one that is very healthy for pet birds. Most birds enjoy bathing, whether splashing in a bird bath or shallow dish of tepid water, or being lightly misted. Slightly warm water is fine for bathing birds, or there are specially formulated sprays developed to gently clean most types of pet birds. Bird owners should always read the label carefully before using any product on a pet bird.
Bathing is important for pet birds because it stimulates preening. Preening isn’t just putting feathers back in place (like combing your hair) – it’s actually much more. Most birds have a uropygial gland that secretes an oily substance that helps waterproof the bird and also contains vitamin D precursors. The substance is spread throughout the feathers when the bird preens, and actually helps nourish the bird as the precursors are converted to vitamin D3 when exposed to UV light. The bird then ingests the vitamin D3 when it preens later and this helps with calcium absorption.
Preening removes dust, dirt and parasites from the bird’s feathers, keeping the bird healthy. It also puts the feathers back in position for better insulation and smoother flight.
Pet Care – Preening: Rico Preening Before Bed Time
Birds can fluff, preen and dry off naturally in a warm spot. Bird owners may not want to bathe their birds in very cold weather, but when winter conditions in the home get dry, the humidity of a warm bathroom can help with respiration and allow the bird to bathe, preen and fluff naturally.
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