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Why? The Refuge was established to provide a safe place for those parrots that, for a number of reasons, have to be re-homed, sometimes through just the unfortunate situations that sometimes arise. Most of them were loved dearly loved and cared for and when that was no longer possible, their companion-person did the most selfless act of kindness in finding them a good home…
Security in Numbers Some of our feathered friends come to the Refuge as an only companion to find a true connection, whether human or bird…
Friendships The Refuge is about gaining friendships between the volunteers who so diligently and lovingly help care for those birds waiting for that forever home, as well as establishing bonds amongst our many fortunate birds that reside here…

Fri, Feb 10, 2012
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Sick Birds at PetsMart

I just read the following through a group the Internet.  I realize that most of us don't purchase our birds, but some shop at PetsMart.  I haven't followed up on the details, but I thought it important enough to pass along:

Possibly someone here has more information than I do, but apparently Petsmart stores in at least three states (Minnesota, Washington, and Georgia) have reported having birds in their stores test positive for psittacosis. A Petland store in Minnesota also reported psittacosis. I don't know if this is any more widespread, but given that Petsmart tends to get many of its birds from a bird mill operation in Florida, it's quite likely that more stores than these received sick birds; these are just the ones I could find reporting sick birds from a quick Google check. If anyone here has purchased a bird recently from a Petsmart, I would seriously recommend going to an avian vet and testing for psittacosis.

Articles:
http://www.komotv.com/news/local/12903601.html
http://www.wtoctv.com/Global/story.asp?S=7553326
http://www.twincities.com/allheadlines/ci_7781513?nclick_check=1
http://www.omakchronicle.com/nws/n071228a.shtml (mentions that the Florida vendor shipped birds to 45 states)

EDIT: As stated in comments, also New Jersey and Texas.

Our Mission is Simple

To work in joint cooperation with all avian rescue groups to try and eliminate the need for rescue groups by educating the public about aviculture issues.  Until that is accomplished, we will provide a sanctuary for those unfortunate parrots that are in need of a home.

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