Every pet deserves a loving and respectful home: please only consider acquiring a pet if you will be able to take care of its long-term needs. Also, consider choosing your animal companion from a shelter, where there are so many wonderful furry friends who need a forever home.

Before you purchase or adopt a bird that may live dozens of years, consider veterinarian Dr. Laurie Hess’ advice, offered in this video. Parrots, canaries and other birds can make excellent companions, but they also require a lot of care to thrive as part of a human home.

View the original video here.

Good Living is the Cyprus Mail’s portal of curated content from across the internet, showcasing local and global ideas, cultural highlights, and scientific and technological developments to inspire a sustainable life.