We've gathered and continue to gather wonderful Companion Parrot Advocates from around the world to write their stories and experiences. These are Advocates who are making a difference by working tirelessly in Advocacy itself, Parrot Rescue and Sanctuary and Avian Veterinarian Care. These stories, and real life experiences are here for you to read, share, learn and apply not only to your own flock, but to your own efforts inside your own companion parrot advocacy.
I hope you'll find ideas and inspiration while reading through these Advocate Articles. Remember, your thoughts and comments are important, they are integral to the success of our prime directive here; To give every parrot, every where, a happy home.
Many parrot flock families also have other companion personalities in their home. Saying goodbye is heart wrenching no matter fur, feather or scale. After all, a companionship is a friendship. Saying goodbye to a friend is never easy.
Every companion parrot is their own personality. Every species of parrot has their own challenges. It takes time and empathy to understand a companion's opinion, fears, and joys. Rocky and Valerie's life story is a perfect example of all the little things adding up quick.
Furniture to us, is a landscape of foraging and chewing events to them. This is natural on their part, even expected considering who they are in nature. But alas, negotiations are required to realign the flock goals. Rocky is really good at negotiations. (most Cockatoos are)
The Rocky Road. Something we as companion parrot flock members may not talk about, but probably should more often. There will be days we struggle. We're only human and they are only exotic parrots. Because the basic truth that a parrot will act like a parrot first dictates those moments. Some struggles are small, some are large, and some are plain disheartening at times. I appreciate Valerie's candor in this story. It's okay to have a bad day. Because you can make a great day tomorrow.
Generally we trip over the most obvious communication ideas with and for our companions. Rocky and Valerie's life always bring a bit of humor and a bit of insight in the communication game.
The best part of an advocate's heart is the ability to see need in all beings. Valerie get lots of calls and emails from friends who want the "crazy bird lady" to tell them what to do about "orphaned" baby birds they see in the yard. Sharing a flock with a starling who might or might not have actually needed to be rescued, there's a simple truth to Ringo's rescue and flock story. Enjoy!