Читать книгу Birds For Dummies - Gina Spadafori - Страница 79

People working in a pet or specialty bird store should know what kinds of birds they have and be able to discuss the characteristics of each species. If you’re dealing with salespeople who can’t tell you the difference between a yellow-naped Amazon and an African grey (beyond appearance), you have to wonder what else they don’t know about birds, like proper care, nutrition, and preventive healthcare of the animals in their charge.

Speaking of proper nutrition, a qualified employee can talk to you in an educated manner about proper feeding, such as formulated diets and the choices that are available. Look and listen for a staffer who is knowledgeable about proper cages, toys, and other bird gear.

A staffer who staunchly defends an all-seed diet and wants to sell you birds trained into this dietary approach is, at the very least, not current on the latest nutritional knowledge. Retailers are not in the business of seeing or recognizing how birds ultimately develop illness and even die because of those diets. (Turn to Chapter 6 for the latest on feeding.)

Pet-store staff need to know their limits. Medical advice is best left to a qualified veterinarian. Avoid any retail outlet where the staff is eager to recommend and sell useless over-the-counter products.

Expect the staff of a reputable store to truly care about any available birds. After all, birds aren’t “merchandise” for sale; they’re living, breathing, sentient beings, in need of proper placement in appropriate homes. A conscientious operation wants to make sure you’re the right person for the role of bird companion and that you’re going to take good care of your pet. Listen for it — a caring and sometimes detailed inquisition is a very good sign.

A first-rate pet store employs people who are clearly interested in and knowledgeable about birds and who understand the importance of a good working relationship with veterinarians and bird trainers. The emphasis, always, should be on prevention of problems through education of the customer — that’s you.