Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Today I put my Lovebirds cage (with them in it) into the shower for their weekly shower/cleaning the cage. The cage has horizontal bars. I turned my back for 2 seconds and my little pomeranian bit at the bars and grabbed one of the birds little feet. It was the female and the male started squaking and biting at the dog. I was right there and was able to get my little "monster" (which is what he is today!) away from the bird. I checked the bird and she seemed fine but shaken up (of course). The dog had to return to his dog run so I could assess the situation. When I looked at her closer - her little foot had some blood on it but other than appeared okay. Then my husband and I looked a minute or two later and one of her little claws off the front was missing. I was horrified. She is perched on her perch holding her mamed foot up - she is able to climb and bars and get food and water but has trouble "sitting" with both feet on her perch. We do not have a vet in the area that looks at birds (thanks!). The closest is 2 hours away. She is no longer bleeding - but any suggestions or things to watch out for (i.e. infection etc). Thank you again.
I am off to my human "dog run" to punish myself for letting this happen. I feel terrible.

Accidents can happen whenever birds are kept in a home with other animals. We always hope they don't but sometimes they will even with the best care and intentions.

There is no home remedy or treatment for animal bites to a bird. Dog saliva can be very harmful to a bird as well as the shock from being bitten. Make sure your birds foot is very clean, try to remove all stresses from her life for the next 48 hours and keep a close eye on her for any shortness of breath, puffed feathers, etc. If she shows any signs of problems she will need to see an avian vet even if it is 2 hours away.

Good luck with your birds and we all know you will keep even a closer eye on your birds when your dog is around. I am sure your are a good bird owner so just know that accidents will happen and we can only learn from them, we can't go back and change them.

Thank you. I still feel awful. Willow was looking much better last night - it stopped bleeding. Today she was able to put pressure on it while sitting on the perch - she was also walking around more only lifting it occasionally. She is eating and drinking fine and playing a little bit with her mate, Cricket. The dogs aren't allowed in the bird room for a few more days! Even though they can't get at the birds because the birds are high up - I don't want them stressing her out for a couple days. I will definitely keep an eye on those things you said to watch for. Thank you for your advice, it was very helpful. The wound looks clean today so I am hoping for a full recovery. But I will make the 2 hour trip for sure if needed! Thanks again.