Pet dove question?

Question

okay i just got a pet dove at the pet store. i usually do a lot of research and stuff before i get a pet but i went in there and they were really friendly and would hop on your finger so i had to get one. =] i have had parakeets and stuff before so i know how to take care of birds. but what are some stuff i should know about pet doves? just any information or website would be helpful.

thank you. =]

Answer 1

Here's a few key details.  Wing clipping is not necessary or recommended.  They shouldn't be released outside because they have poor honing instincts, and will get lost.  They mate for life.  The minimum cage size is 18 X 22 X 18 (inches).  Doves are sensitive to smoke, drafts from outside, and strong odors, so they should be kept away from open windows and out of the kitchen.  Make sure that you keep their feet healthy and in good shape.  If you notice any foot abnormalities, contact a vet.  Doves should be fed 2 to 3 tablespoons per day of pellet or other seed-based foods, fortified finch or parakeet food.  About 5 to 10 percent of doves' diet should be bite sized fruits and veggies.  Their metabolism is active, so starvation can occur as early as 24 hours, so make sure that they're well fed.  Keep a cuttle bone or mineral rock in the cage at all time.  Give them clean, distilled water, not tap water.  Doves swallow their seeds whole, so put a pinch of grit in with their food to aid in digestion.  Calcium deficiencies are common, so you should put grit and high-calcium crushed oyster shell in their food as well.