Choosing an Avian Behavioral Consultant

All pets need training, some more than others. Pets also act out in different ways to express emotions and assert their place in the family. Birds are notorious for having strong personalities. If your bird is going through some behavioral problems that you cannot control it may be time to turn to an avian behavioral consultant. These experts evaluate why your feathered friend is acting the way he or she is and help you resolve the situation. Choosing an avian behavioral consultant is easy with these simple steps.

Many times your veterinarian will be able to provide you with a reference for an avian behavioral consultant. Chances are they have had to call on one previously and know of a qualified expert.

Also seek a recommendation from any friends, family members, or neighbors who also have birds. Other pet owners have had to go through similar behavioral issues are you are now going through. They may have even had sought the services of an avian behavioral consultant. So call on their past experiences to help improve your present ones. You can also seek a recommendation from an online networking site that specializes in birds and bird owners. There are various sites that cater to different species of birds.

You may also find some great avian behavioral consultants from reading articles online or in bird enthusiast magazines. Type in your species of bird and the problem you are having into a search engine. Various articles will be returned to you. When looking at the articles, you may find the name of an avian behavioral consultant who contributed to the article.

Bird rescue organizations in your area may know the name of an avian behavioral consultant. Many rescue organizations have need of one at one time or another because of the many birds they encounter who have suffered trauma or abandonment. There is a chance they many even have a consultant on staff on a volunteer basis.

After compiling your recommendations and contact information for avian behavioral consultants you will need to select one. The best way to go about this process is to interview each potential consultant. This free interview session is your chance to find out more about the professional, such as their experience in dealing with your species of bird and particular behavioral problem. Here are some sample questions you can ask:

- How long have you been in this line of work?
- Do you treat only certain species and problems or can you handle all avian behavioral issues?
- Are you available via phone and to come to my home?
- How long does the initial visit take? What about follow-up visits?
- What are your fees and when do you expect payment?
- Do you have certifications or professional designations?
- What information do I need to provide? (If the behavioral consultant does not ask for a thorough medical history and questionnaire about your bird, beware!).
- Do you promote using positive or negative reinforcement techniques? (Negative reinforcement techniques include squirting water on your bird, harsh words and yelling. Look for a consultant that promotes positive techniques.)

After all your research and search tactics to choose the right avian behavioral consultant, be sure to listen to what they have to say after they meet with you and your bird. They will probably have advice and new techniques to use. If anything doesn't feel right to you, listen to your gut. You know your bird better than anyone.