Traveling with Birds

Traveling by car with pets is always a challenge. You might think that caged animals travel much easier. In a way it is. You do not have to worry about making pit stops and other concerns you have to have with a dog or a cat. Caged animals do have a leg up in many cases with car travel, but animals like birds do create their own interesting challenges. If you are planning to travel this holiday season (or at any time ) with your feathered friends, there are some things you need to keep in mind.

The first thing is do you have a cage or carrier that your bird or birds will fit in. If it is a long road trip, are there places to put food and water? Will the carrier fit in your car? If it will fit in your car, can you get a seatbelt around it?

Yes, you need to seatbelt in your carrier for their safety as well as yours. Make sure the carrier is secured before you hit the road. Any sudden slam on the brakes or car movements could send an unsecured carrier flying injuring you, your birds, and possibly other people on the road if you lose control of your car. Please make sure that cage or carrier is well secured!

Another issue is how will your bird react to being in the car. I have one bird that loves car rides, one that hates them and two that aren't big fans but will tolerate it. If your birds really freak out in the car, you may need to bring a cover. My one cockatiel that does not like car rides is usually content to hang out in the back of the cage and face the back of the car seat. However, if it is getting dark and/or raining, he is even more stressed out. If this is the case with your bird, keeping a cover in the car may be a good idea.

Also, be aware of an other conditions that could endanger your pets or make travel more treacherous. I had to take my birds on a four hour trip this summer. My car's AC decided it did not want to work any more, and one of my travel days just so happened to fall on one of the hottest days of the year. When we were moving, it wasn't a big deal. I had the windows cracked enough that there was a good breeze. However, when we were stopped, the temperature rose quickly. My car was like a little purple oven on wheels. My poor birds nearly baked as we were stuck in traffic at a toll plaza. We made an emergency water stop after we cleared the toll plaza, but it could have been much worse. If you are going to be driving in extreme conditions, be prepared. Also, keep a close eye on you little guys as the trip progresses. Make sure that no one is too traumatized or distressed.

Road trips with pet birds are quite survivable, but sometimes you need to remember to plan ahead. If you have a toy you know will calm them down, remember to bring it along. If you know they love music, (or in my case have a favorite CD) it better be in the car. Pack for your birds just like you pack for yourself. What items will you need in the car? What items will you nee once you get to your destination? Ask those same questions for your feathered friends and you should be fine.