Here's How:
1. If you will be traveling by plane with your bird, you need to make sure you buy an airline-approved pet carrier. Check with your particular airline on their guidelines.
2. Determine how big you need your carrier to be. This depends on the size of your bird. Carriers shouldn't be too big, or your bird will get tossed around. Choose a carrier that is big enough for him to climb around a little, but not big enough so that he hurts himself if he falls.
3. Decide if you want a clear carrier or an opaque one. There are many clear acrylic carriers on the market, and these are great because it lets the bird really see the outdoors and it's nearly indestructable. But there some birds, my African grey Isabel included, who are terrified of the mere sight of the great big outdoors up and close. I have an opaque carrier for her.
4. Make sure there will be enough air flow into the carrier. There should be slats in the carrier that will let air flow through it, but that are small enough so your bird cannot wedge a beak or toe through it.
5. The carrier should be able to be tightly secured. The last thing you want is for your carrier to flop open unexpectedly while you're walking outside. Make sure the carrier has secure latches and that your bird cannot reach them from inside.
6. Decide if you want a built-in perch. If your carrier has a perch, you'll want to make sure it's on the bottom of the carrier so that she doesn't fall too hard if she loses her balance. If you don't have a perch in the carrier, line the bottom with a soft towel that gives her some grip.
7. Decide if you want a carrier that you can go hiking with. Yes, there are carriers designed to be worn on your back or across your chest, so that you can take your bird with you while you picnic or vacation outdoors. These carriers are often made of soft materials, so be sure your bird doesn't chew them.
Tips:
1. Keep your carrier closeby in case of emergency.
2. Cover the carrier with a large towel or blanket during cold weather. Some shy parrots will appreciate the carrier being covered anytime they go outdoors.
3. Place one or two familiar toys in the carrier. Make sure they don't take up too much room, and that your bird will not be injured if she falls onto them.
4. If using the carrier for long-distance traveling, purchase one with a food dish. You can put pellets in the bottom and a few grapes or cut up apples on top for hydration.
5. Always buckle your carrier into the car to keep your bird from being jostled around too much.
How To Choose a Carrier
Lots of birds love to travel. Taking your bird on vacation with you, or just around the block, can be fun and help to keep your bird socialized. You'll need a safe and comfortable carrier for your bird, even if you don't plan on taking her on vacation. Birds need to go to the vet, and you also need one around in case of emergency.
