10 Tips for Stress-Free Exams for Birds and Exotic Pets

Annual checkups are as important for birds and exotic pets as they are for dogs and cats. Many bird and exotic pet owners know this, but are reluctant to bring their animals to the vet because they think the experience will be too stressful. However, any stress your pet may experience is generally outweighed by the benefits of a thorough veterinary examination.

Here are 10 strategies you can use to help reduce stress when taking your bird or exotic pet for a checkup:

Make towel wrapping no big deal. Many pets (especially birds) get upset when they’re held with towels. Since vets often have to restrain animals by wrapping them in towels, you can reduce the stress by practicing this activity at home first. Each time you practice, use the same towels (of the same color) and leave them unwashed between sessions so that your pet can be reassured by her own scent. Start slowly, initially giving your pet treats just for having brief contact with towels, and then working up to her allowing you to briefly enclose her in the towel. This is positive-reinforcement training. As long as she is comfortable, gradually increase the degree and duration of her contact with the towels by continuing to entice and reward her with treats. Remember to bring your pet’s own towels to the animal hospital for the veterinary staff to use during her examination!

Teach your pet to use a travel carrier. This can be a tough one, as many birds and other exotic pets never leave the house and are afraid of even the sight of a carrier. That’s why it’s important to start familiarizing your pet with her carrier weeks in advance of any veterinary appointments. Initially, place the carrier in your pet’s view while rewarding her with her favorite treats — again, using the principles of positive reinforcement. Over several days, gradually move the carrier closer while continuously rewarding her with treats near the carrier. The ultimate goal is for her to only receive a treat when she is actually inside the carrier. Many birds or other exotic pets will learn to sit comfortably in carriers as long as they can see outside. In the case of extreme cold or wind, you may need to cover the carrier with a blanket or towels, and some pets may become upset when they can’t see what’s going on. Continuing to use a favorite food treat or effusive verbal praise can gradually accustom your pet to being comfortable in a covered carrier.

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