Cases
Fracture Repair
Repair of a fractured shin bone in a peregrine falcon using specially designed, pins and clamps.
This illustrated technique uses a combination of pins inserted both inside the hollow bones and 'screwed' in from the outside, all linked together with clamps. This modern method of repair keeps the fracture incredibly stable while still allowing the bird to use its leg/wing and thus do its own 'physio' throughout the healing process. This dramatically speeds up recovery, allowing full return to function. In most cases the metal implants are removed completely within 4 weeks.
Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is a respiratory disease of birds caused by the fungus 'Aspergillus'.
This fungus can be found anywhere in the environment but is in particularly high concentrations in decaying or dusty organic material
e.g. mouldy seed or cage/aviary substrate. Certain bird species seem more susceptible e.g. grey parrots, gyr falcons and goshawks.
Clinical signs vary widely from vague weight loss/depression or voice change to sudden onset respiratory distress depending on where
in the birds respiratory system the 'bread mould' type fungus develops. Definitive diagnosis relies on visualization and in some cases biopsy
of the fungus using an endoscope to look directly into the trachea and air sac system.
Good hygiene and husbandry practices are the cornerstone of aspergillus prevention and will be discussed in detail as part of the birds
recommended annual health check. As long as detected early, successful treatment relies on both oral and inhaled medication.
Appropriate inhaled preparations are easily administered via a nebulization unit to create a fine mist within the bird's own cage or transport box.
Preventative medications can be used in susceptible species during times of stress. So please feel free to contact us to discuss this or
indeed any other aspect of avian preventative healthcare.
Feather Plucking/Picking Disorder
Feather picking is a complicated and often distressing disorder seen in a number of avian species.
There can be a number of nutritional, environmental, medical and psychological factors involved with the behaviour itself becoming 'addictive'
to the bird in question. A systematic approach including a detailed medical and behavioural history in conjunction with appropriate diagnostic
tests are important to try and establish an underlying cause. We can then formulate an appropriate treatment plan, which requires long-term commitment
from both veterinary team and owner. Unfortunately there is rarely a quick fix for this frustrating syndrome.
Like many avian disorders prevention of 'feather picking' is far more effective than cure. As such we actively encourage 'new bird' and 'annual'
check ups where we can take the time to discuss preventative measures alongside other aspects of avian healthcare.
Feather Repair
Damaged wing and tail feathers can impair flight and lead to trauma of adjacent plumage. Imping, (illustrated here) is a technique developed by falconers to repair damaged feathers. A previously moulted feather is cut to size and glued in place using a carved wooden peg.
