Читать книгу Birds For Dummies - Gina Spadafori - Страница 84

No matter where or from whom you buy a bird, don’t proceed without a written sales contract and warranty. That’s for your protection, and for the seller’s protection as well. As with any legal document, read it carefully and make sure you’re comfortable with the terms before closing the deal.

A good sales contract strongly recommends or requires that the bird be examined by a veterinarian, usually within 48 to 72 hours of purchase but sometimes within a 14-day period. The warranty should spell out what will happen if your bird is found to be ill or have a preexisting medical problem. Some agreements may require a second opinion to confirm the problem. Compensation for medical expenses to treat a sick bird may be limited or nonexistent.

As a buyer, you may have some responsibilities set forth in the contract, too. For example, the sales contract may require you to keep your new bird separate from other birds in your home for a set period of time so that, if you return her, she won’t pose a hazard to others in the breeder’s aviary or nursery or to avian residents of the pet store.

Under the terms of most contracts, the seller may offer a refund after you return the bird or, more likely, the seller will replace the sick bird with another one. This is especially true when you’re dealing with the more costly species. An aviculturist or pet store is unlikely to give you a refund or replace a sick bird unless you return the original bird. That is one very good reason to take a new bird for a veterinary check immediately, before you become attached, although even then it may be too late — when you take possession of a bird, you may fall in love quickly. This is also why it’s so important to investigate the seller and make sure you’re satisfied with the care she provides to the birds being bred or sold. That’s the best way to save money on a bird purchase.