What bird would be a first bird owner bird? and how to convince my parents to let me get it?

Question

We had to put our beagle to sleep not that long ago. And they do NOT want another dog. We have 2 already. But I want a bird. Since we can't get another dog. We have 2 dogs, fish, a hamster, and 2 guinea pigs. How do I convince them to let me get a bird if I pay for it? I wanted and African Gray Parrot until I found out how much the cost was. I was thinking about saving up my money and then start doing a lot of research about the kind of bird. What bird do you think would be a good first bird owner bird? And how much will the bird, cage, food, and everything it needs will cost in the beginning? Thanks, Chloe.

Answer 1

Since you still need your parents' help in sustaining a pet's finances, and you have so many other pets already in the house, I'll say that you should only think of a budgie or cockatiel at this moment -- anything above that may well prove too much. Here's some basic info you need to know about them:

You need to give them at least 30 minutes of daily interaction (physical and direct talking) if they're to be tame, and you'll need to take some environmental precautions to accommodate their sensitive emotional and physical capabilities, such as no Teflon cookware or appliances (deadly if overheated), no yappy kids or untrained, predatory pets. To find a list of things toxic to pet birds, search "bird-safe" on Wikipedia or Google it. And pet birds need their own vet, called an avian vet, if they get sick -- visit http://www.aav.org to find the nearest one. Also keep in mind that a well-kept budgie lives up to 15 years and a cockatiel up to 20, and if it is separated from its owner it suffers trauma -- so think twice if you're young and will be going to college or are thinking of a disposable pet (I don't think there should be any). Above all, KEEP RESEARCHING, researching, researching before you get your pet bird -- a researched owner enjoys each and every moment with its pet.

If you are going to get a pet bird, don't buy, adopt one instead. This way, you'll get your bird for a fraction of the pet store (or breeder) price, and also know the personality of the bird you're going to get. But best of all, you'll be helping a bird in need -- there are so many good abandoned pet birds out there in parrot sheltesr needing good homes, and breeding or buying fresh birds worsens the situation for them and their future generations. Visit http://www.avianwelfare.org to find the nearest parrot shelter. They are dedicated to rehabilitating and rehoming abandoned, neglected or abused pet birds in good, forever homes. So it's a great all-around source to get your pet bird from.

Answer 2

Parrots are not good birds for first-time owners. They can live to be 75 and that's a major commitment.

Have you considered a hand-reared cockatiel? They have a lot of personality and are fun and easy to train. Here's a video of a cockatiel named Pringle going through her tricks:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wTqmTiVym...

Make sure that the bird that you get is hand-tamed, because it can be frustrating to start with a bird that doesn't want to be handled. Those can often be brought around by an experienced owner, but for a first-time bird, you want one that is hand-tamed. That will cost you more. Please go to your local shelter and try to find one there. They probably get in lots of birds, especially this time of year. Take your time and wait for the right bird. Get to know the staff, especially the staff's bird expert, and maybe even volunteer there some to learn about caring for birds. That's the best way to be in the right place at the right time to get a great bird.

At my shelter, we've had a number of fabulous friendly and well-trained cockatiel's come through. I was never fond of the Quakers, because they all seemed to be biters, but the cockatiels are real characters. They also can come in some beautiful color combinations. Some people will turn their nose up at them, thinking they aren't exotic enough, but they are a good size, good-natured, smart and fun birds.

Enjoy!

Answer 3

Well for starters, how about trying the following:

#1 Cleaning your room and making sure that it STAYS clean and tidy.

#2 Making sure that your homework is done and handed in on time.

#3 Sweep the floors in the living room and kitchen without your parents asking you to.

#4 Wash and/or dry the dishes.

#5 Do not fight and argue with your sisters & brothers.

#6 Eat what you are given and don't whine or make "yuck" faces when given it.

#7 Don't talk rudly to adults

#8  Always share with other kids.

#9 Go to bed when you are told to.

#10 Research the pet and breed you want to be 100% certain that it is the right one for you.

# 11 Ask them about getting this new pet in a nice way and don't beg and whine about it.

I’m 100% sure that if you give those a try, they will see that you are serious about wanting to add a this pet to your life and family. :)

Answer 4

Personally I think that a cockatiel or a parakeet are good first time birds. I have both. They both are lovable, trainable and can talk. As for cost, either one can cost about $100-150 to start. If possible get a hand fed baby from a reputable breeder, that way half your battle is over in taming. Good luck!

Answer 5

I think a parakeet would be a perfect  starter bird for someone.  I would guess it would cost you about $150-$200 for everything that you need.  But there is also kits that come with some cages that include everything you need except the food that you may be able to get for less. I would check your local walmart for supplies.