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    harleymaxx's Avatar
    harleymaxx Posts: 32, Reputation: 2
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    #1

    Apr 19, 2010, 07:14 PM
    How to care for a bird with a broken wing?
    Hi I have a galah in my care and I suspect he may have a broken wing. I can't afford to take him to a vet and have in the past successfully treated other animals. I would like to know if anyone has any information they can share with me. I currently have him in a secure, warm and quiet area. It is a cat carrier that is like a canvas carry bag with mesh sides. Very cosy. He is not taking in any food and minimal water. I have farex but am not sure whether to give it to him yet. Please let me know if you have any tips. Thank you for your time, kellie
    Lucky098's Avatar
    Lucky098 Posts: 2,594, Reputation: 543
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    #2

    Apr 19, 2010, 07:43 PM

    The bird has a broken bone. He's in pain which is why he's not eating. Birds can stress out and die very quickly.

    The bone may need to be reset. He really does need to see a vet. If you can't afford a vet, then you shouldn't have this animal in the first place.
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    harleymaxx Posts: 32, Reputation: 2
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    #3

    Apr 19, 2010, 08:03 PM

    I actually rescued this bird, so I didn't have it in the first place. I RESCUED IT from being pounced on by a cat and am trying to help it! I don't think I asked for a lecture and if you knew what I have done with animlas you would in no way even START to lecture me. Asking for advice on here was a mistake I see
    harleymaxx's Avatar
    harleymaxx Posts: 32, Reputation: 2
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    #4

    Apr 19, 2010, 08:40 PM
    Asking question about sick bird!
    Why is it I thought coming on here would be a good idea to get some advice on HELPING an injured bird, when the only response I got was an insult. I thought this was a help desk. If anyone else has an insult rather than a genuine response to give me... dont bother. If people knew what I have done for sick and injured animals they would keep their opinionated comments to themselves. Thanks
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #5

    Apr 19, 2010, 08:50 PM

    I really would contact the humane society. They have vets on hand that will care for the bird, try to find it's home or adopt it out if that can't be accomplished.

    Setting a broken wing requires knowledge, skill, not just luck. They need to take an X-ray of the wing in order to set it correctly.

    That's really your best bet.

    Good luck.
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    Wondergirl Posts: 39,354, Reputation: 5431
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    #6

    Apr 19, 2010, 08:52 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by harleymaxx View Post
    i actually rescued this bird, so i didnt have it in the first place. I RESCUED IT
    Is there a wildlife center or animal rescue/shelter or a zoo or even a public library near you? Call the first three I mentioned and ask for their input on what you can do for the bird. (I'd even call a vet who deals with birds and ask for suggestions and even if he would help the bird as a public service, since it's not your pet.)

    I suggested the library to call or visit and ask a reference librarian for suggestions if you are still up the creek. I'd really like to think a vet near you would take on this pro bono.
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #7

    Apr 19, 2010, 08:56 PM

    Whoa. I read your other thread. I didn't see an insult, just a suggestion to take the bird to a vet. No, it's not your bird, you found it, so spending money on a vet isn't your responsibility, but sadly we get too many people that come here and expect us to fix all their pets problems when we really can't. It gets frustrating after a while.

    I've been in your shoes, actually not that long ago. A baby bird was knocked from it's nest, had a broken wing, wasn't old enough to survive on it's own. Even if I had found the nest it came from (which I couldn't) the bird wouldn't have survived.

    I tried calling the bird sanctuary because the humane society won't take wild animals. The sanctuary wouldn't come because it was a common bird, not rare.

    I did my best to care for it but it died.

    I already suggested this on your other thread but I'll suggest it again here. Your best bet is the humane society, one of the vets there will take a look at the bird and properly fix the wing. They'll also look for the owner of the bird.

    Try to remember that we all love animals on this forum and sometimes our passion and frustration can come out wrong. We're all human, we all have our moments, but really, this site is wonderful so stick around, maybe a question will come in that you can help with. :)

    Good luck and welcome to AMHD.
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #8

    Apr 19, 2010, 08:58 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by Wondergirl View Post
    Is there a wildlife center or animal rescue/shelter or a zoo or even a public library near you? Call the first three I mentioned and ask for their input on what you can do for the bird. (I'd even call a vet who deals with birds and ask for suggestions and even if he would help the bird as a public service, since it's not your pet.)

    I suggested the library to call or visit and ask a reference librarian for suggestions if you are still up the creek. I'd really like to think a vet near you would take on this pro bono.
    I don't think that a wildlife center would be interested in a domesticated animal WG. It's a cockatoo, native to Australia. Unless the OP is from Australia and this is a wild bird, the humane society is the best bet to help it and find the owner.
    Wondergirl's Avatar
    Wondergirl Posts: 39,354, Reputation: 5431
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    #9

    Apr 19, 2010, 09:09 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by Altenweg View Post
    I don't think that a wildlife center would be interested in a domesticated animal WG. It's a cockatoo, native to Australia. Unless the OP is from Australia and this is a wild bird, the humane society is the best bet to help it and find the owner.
    I got the impression from another thread she posted that this is a wild creature she had saved from a cat. I don't know where she lives, but it seems that a wildlife sanctuary or animal rescue center would at least offer suggestions.
    Lucky098's Avatar
    Lucky098 Posts: 2,594, Reputation: 543
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    #10

    Apr 19, 2010, 10:04 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by harleymaxx View Post
    i actually rescued this bird, so i didnt have it in the first place. I RESCUED IT from being pounced on by a cat and am trying to help it!! i dont think i asked for a lecture and if you knew what i have done with animlas you would in no way even START to lecture me. asking for advice on here was a mistake i see
    I'm not trying to sound rude or put you down in any way.. I rescue animals as well.. and do a lot of home doctoring for quite a few ailments... But when it comes down to something as serious as a broken bone, I go to the professionals.

    Not only is this animal in pain right now, but the bird can also get bone infection, blood poisoning and many more problems from a broken bone. What if this bone needs to be reset? Are you going to do it? If so, how do you know it needs to be reset? I'm pretty sure you don't have an x-ray.

    If this is indeed a wild animal, there are sanctuaries that take on these types of cases and have the funds, knowledge and medical experience to take care of the animal (for life if need-be).

    You're going to cause this animal to die from pain and suffering because you're going to be a know-it-all with taking care of rescued animals. It's a great thing that you saved this animal. Now, do the right thing and get it to the people who know what they're doing. In my mind, that is true rescue. You'll still get the glory of saving the animal.

    Sorry to lecture... But broken bones is a serious matter.
    harleymaxx's Avatar
    harleymaxx Posts: 32, Reputation: 2
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    #11

    Apr 19, 2010, 10:57 PM

    I just read the comment that was left and I saw red. I would do and am doing anything I can to save an animal. If I take it to a shelter they will ring its neck as it is not an endangered or protected animal. Being told if I can't AFFORD to look after an animal then I shudnt have it made me very angry. I am doing my best and was just after some advice
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #12

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:02 PM

    So this is a wild bird, not a pet?

    Sorry, I saw the breed and assumed it was a pet.

    I know you're upset and I know you're doing your best. Let's try to move on and see if we can figure out what to do about this bird.

    I have a few questions.

    1. Is it fully grown? An adult?
    2. Is it eating well?
    3. Is the bone protruding from the wing?

    I'm going to do some research, see what I can find. Give me some time, it will probably take until tomorrow to find the info (it's late here).

    Post on this thread again tomorrow so that I'll remember. :)

    Until then, I can only suggest that you keep the bird as still as possible so he doesn't further injure his wing. Keep him warm, plenty of water and food.

    Okay?
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #13

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:08 PM

    Until tomorrow, here are two sites I found that may help. I haven't read through them entirely so use your own discretion. :)

    How to Repair a Bird's Broken Wing Tips | eHow.com

    i found a bird with a broken wing
    harleymaxx's Avatar
    harleymaxx Posts: 32, Reputation: 2
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    #14

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:18 PM

    OK in response to all the feedback which I appreciate I have made a few decisions and have a few replies.

    Firstly yes the bird is a native animal. It is a west Australian (where I am) pink and grey galah. Secondly I am far from trying to be know it all. Why would I be here if I thought I knew it all? I was just looking for some advice.

    We have one sanctuary here that I am going to call for help. I AM WILLING TO look after this bird FOR LIFE. I am after no glory, just some information. Thank you to those that have realised this and offered it.

    I am going to call my local vet (as I have numerous animals already that are very well cared for! ) and enquire on whether they can help me.


    I
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #15

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:18 PM

    Okay, that didn't work so well.

    I merged your threads because they're the same topic. Sorry for all the posts being out of order, this was my first merge. :(
    Lucky098's Avatar
    Lucky098 Posts: 2,594, Reputation: 543
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    #16

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:23 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by harleymaxx View Post
    ok in response to all the feedback which i appreciate i have made a few decisions and have a few replies.

    firstly yes the bird is a native animal. it is a west australian (where i am) pink and grey galah. secondly i am far from trying to be know it all. why would i be here if i thought i knew it all? i was just looking for some advice.

    we have one sanctuary here that i am going to call for help. i AM WILLING TO look after this bird FOR LIFE. i am after no glory, just some information. thankyou to those that have realised this and offered it.

    i am going to call my local vet (as i have numerous animals already that are very well cared for!!) and enquire on whether or not they can help me.


    i feel like i am defending myself to a few people who want to make it an issue of what IHAVE DONE rather than the issue at hand and that is how to help. a waste of my time when i could really be doing something constructive.
    Not trying to make an issue at all. I rescue animals. I know that a lot of things can be done at home with home remedies... But broke bones need doctors! You're still saving a life. You're still rescuing an animal from death... You'll still get recognition. I don't see what the issue is. You write on here saying you have a bird with a broken wing, can't afford a vet, how do I repair a broken bone? What would you think if someone asked you that?
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #17

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:28 PM

    I hope it works out.

    I do know that Galah's are very well known in Australia, they're like seagulls here in Canada. ;)

    Sadly I also know that common birds aren't usually saved by the wildlife preserves or sanctuaries. They will rescue and treat a rare bird, but the common ones are usually euthanised, especially if it has a broken wing. They prefer to spend their money and time on the rarer breeds. It's a sad fact.

    I would call your vet, just to see if he/she isn't willing to at least take a look or offer some advice. That would be your best bet.

    Be warned that even if the bird does live, he may never be able to fly. Are you prepared to keep him if that happens?
    harleymaxx's Avatar
    harleymaxx Posts: 32, Reputation: 2
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    #18

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:30 PM

    Hi altenweg, yes please lets move on. OK in response to your? 's. It is an adult and it is male. There is no wound on his body at all as I have checked him over. I have him a dark room with the door closed so it is quiet for him. I have a little seed and some water in the cat carrier for him.

    There is no bone protruding, and I am onlty taking an educated guess that his wing IS broken. He is holding a little lower than the other and when he jumped out of the box I had him first he didn't land on his feet he just rolled over on to his side. He did manage to right himself.

    He has only hissed at me a couple of times other than that he has been pretty calm.

    I have read on a few sites to cut the toe out of a sock and cut a hole for his feet and place him in the sock. That is the only way to fix a wing.

    I fear a wildlife sanctuary will dispose of him because he is a common bird and it will be easier 5than trying to fix him. I cannot let that happen, so am trying to do all I can. The rspca do not take in injured wildlife. This I know from previous attempts
    Alty's Avatar
    Alty Posts: 28,317, Reputation: 5972
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    #19

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:36 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by Lucky098 View Post
    Not trying to make an issue at all. I rescue animals. I know that a lot of things can be done at home with home remedies... But broke bones need doctors! You're still saving a life. You're still rescuing an animal from death... You'll still get recognition. I dont see what the issue is. You write on here saying you have a bird with a broken wing, can't afford a vet, how do I repair a broken bone?? What would you think if someone asked you that?
    Lucky, to be honest, I've been in this position and I didn't got to a vet, mainly because there are no vets in my area that specialize in birds, but also because I really couldn't afford to spend money on a wild animal that probably wouldn't make it any way.

    Also, when it comes to a broken bone, most vets will just euathanize without even trying to fix the wing if it's a wild bird.

    The vet should be contacted, I agree, but I can also see why the OP is looking for other options. I would still call the vet, see if he/she will look at the bird or at least offer some advice. The thing is, times are tough. It's hard enough for most people to afford vet bills for the animals they choose to have in their care. To expect someone to spend what could amount to hundreds of dollars, if not more, on a wild animal during these times, well, not everyone can afford to do that. I know I couldn't. So my option would be to do the best I can, or kill the animal to end it's suffering.

    I do understand what you're saying Lucky, I hope you can see what I'm saying too. This isn't a pet owner that's neglecting his chosen pet. This is someone that's trying to help a wild animal.
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    harleymaxx Posts: 32, Reputation: 2
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    #20

    Apr 19, 2010, 11:41 PM

    I understand that he may never be able to fly again and I am more than willing to take him on. I could not think of any other way that I would want for him. I have had a look at both those sites you offered and they are very good. I will wait till my husband gets home tonight and he can help me with the bandaging. I am still going to ask my vets advice and maybe they might help.

    Even the web sites I have looked on say that a broken wing can be cared for at home. I will not have this bird euthanized just because he has a broken wing. I wouldn't do that to my cat or dog if it happened to them, in fact I DID spend $1000's on my cat that got hit by a car and did not even hesitate.

    People are on here talking about recognition and glory? I want none of that... I just want to help this bird

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