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What Every Bird Owner Needs to Know About Emergencies

What every bird owner needs to know about planning for emergencies

What Every Bird Owner Needs to Know About Emergencies

When you share your life with animals, emergencies are inevitable. Whether it’s wildfires, hurricanes, or sudden health scares, being prepared can make the difference between a manageable situation and a disaster.

Safety doesn’t come from hoping for the best – it comes from expecting problems and training for them. I’ve learned this firsthand, from weekend vet visits when clinics were closed to racing to crate up birds during fire season.

Preparation isn’t just about having the right supplies; it’s about training yourself to act calmly when adrenaline kicks in. Knowing where everything is and how to use it is a game-changer when seconds count.

Key Emergency Supplies & Tips

Here’s a breakdown of what I keep on hand and how I prepare:

  • Crates and Towels: Each bird has an assigned crate. I make sure they’re easy to grab, clean, and labeled for quick use. We also have plenty of sturdy towels with no holes or snags – these are invaluable for securing birds during emergencies.
  • First Aid Kit: This includes syringes, gauze, sterile pads, triple antibiotic ointment, vet wrap, tweezers, and isopropyl alcohol. I also keep electrolyte fluids like Pedialyte and formula for birds that may need extra hydration or calories. (Download your Free Emergency Supply list here).
  • Power and Heat Backups: I keep portable heaters, a milkhouse heater, and extra headlamps and battery packs. During extreme weather or power outages, it’s crucial to maintain a stable environment.

Practice Makes Perfect

Emergencies don’t wait for perfect conditions. That’s why I regularly practice loading my birds into crates, restraining when necessary, and navigating stressful situations. You can’t rely on adrenaline to carry you through – you need muscle memory.

Whether it’s practicing restraint techniques or packing your vehicle for a quick exit, these small drills build confidence. And for birds, training for crate entry ahead of time reduces their stress in an actual emergency.

Monthly Check-Ups

On the first of each month, I check and refresh our supplies. This includes:

  • Refilling water jugs
  • Rotating food so nothing spoils
  • Double-checking that batteries are charged and emergency clothes are packed

It takes just a few minutes but makes a massive difference in feeling prepared.

Your Own Go-Bag

Emergencies don’t just affect your birds—they affect you. Pack an extra set of clothes, water, and nonperishable snacks for yourself. When you’re prepared, you can focus fully on your birds without scrambling for your own necessities.

Preparedness Over Panic

Emergencies can be overwhelming, but having a plan keeps you grounded. Whether it’s wildfires or health crises, the preparation you put in today could save precious time tomorrow.

We have an entire Emergency Preparedness Course inside the Avian Behavior Lab to help you feel ready for anything. You can join the Lab free for 2 weeks and access hundreds of resources designed to support you and your birds.