Questions? We’ve heard them all.
Four decades of answering bird, bunny, cat and dog questions. Here are the ones we hear most — and if yours isn’t here, just call.
What type of bird should we choose for our 6-year-old?
First we need to determine whether a bird is the right companion for your child, or whether any companion is appropriate at this age. Some children are more mature than others, so it’s best to bring your child in so we can see how they interact with animals. If the goal is for your child to be responsible for the companion, waiting a few years can help them learn to care for an animal — and enjoy the relationship more fully.
What kinds of birds do you have?
Our socialized, hand-fed parrots include cockatiels, cockatoos, Amazons, African Greys, macaws, lovebirds, parrotlets, lineolated parakeets, Senegals and blue-crowned hanging parrots. Our large selection of finches and canaries will delight anyone who loves song and color. All birds are health-guaranteed.
Do I have a male or female bird?
Make an appointment for DNA sexing — the fee is $25.
Should I get one or two birds?
Most birds that aren’t handled daily by people will welcome the company of another bird. If you plan to spend lots of one-on-one time with your bird, a single bird can bond closely with you. We’re happy to talk it through.
Help! We have a really finicky — and particularly needy — bird.
We stock many foraging toys and an entire make-your-own-toy selection. Natural manzanita branches, swings, ropes, toys, play perches and packaged treats help keep your bird physically and mentally healthy. We have items that will interest even a finicky bird.
Which bunny should I get for a 2-, 3- or 4-year-old?
If you have the time to care for a bunny daily — hold it, cuddle it — come visit us. A bunny will live 6–8 years if cared for properly. We recommend a child be at least 6–8 before taking on the responsibility themselves. If the bunny is for both of you and you’ll be the one handling it, come talk to us, and think about your daily schedule before deciding.
I need a special diet for my bird. Can you order it?
Check our stock first — we carry over 7 varieties of pelleted or extruded diets, and our bulk feed arrives weekly, fresh and clean. If you don’t see the bird, guinea pig, rabbit, cat or dog item you’re looking for, we can usually special-order it.
What dog products do you stock?
Dog foods include Wellness, Chicken Soup for the Dog Lover’s Soul, Halo, Natural Choice and Science Diet. For treats: bulk dog biscuits, Old Mother Hubbard, Darford and Sojos grain-free. Toys include Doggy Hoots, Snugga Wubba and JW Invincible Chains — the strongest solid rubber ring tugs you’ve ever seen.
What cat products do you stock?
Cat foods include Wellness, Chicken Soup for the Cat Lover’s Soul, Halo and Science Diet, plus Sojos grain-free, Halo, Zuke’s and Dogswell treats. Toys include Ducky World Yeowww organic catnip toys, feathered and fuzzy balls, wands and Fat Cat Kitty Hoots. Don’t see what you need? Just ask.
Do you have gift certificates?
Yes — gift certificates are available for any amount. Call ahead and we’ll have one ready for you.
Can you groom my pet while I wait?
Grooming and nail trims for birds, bunnies and guinea pigs are scheduled Monday–Friday 1–5pm and Saturdays at 12:30, 1 and 1:30. Bring your bird in a carrier, and your own towel if you can.
Why are there cats in a bird shop?
We partner with Hopalong Animal Rescue to provide a place where rescued cats can be adopted. Supporters adopt an average of 1–2 cats a week from our front window. All cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and health-screened, and 95% of the donation goes directly to Hopalong.
Do you accept newspapers or bags?
Yes! We accept clean newsprint (no advertising slicks or magazines) for cage bottoms, and clean plastic bags with handles.
Still have a question?
Call the shop or stop by — our staff love talking birds.