Right now, I live in Japan with my two pet birds. In August, I'll be moving back to America. However, the USDA has decided that they won't issue an import permit to birds of Japanese origin because of 'avian influenza H5N1.' A disease which even the World Health Organization and the World Organization for Animal Health both agree is not present in Japan, and in fact isn't present for over 1,500 kms from where I'm living.
To make matters worse, one of my cockatiels is handicapped and in need of medical attention I've been unable to find for her in Japan.
I've started a letter writing campaign directed at the USDA, asking them to reconsider the issue. If you're interested in helping, please send me an email at piperandkia@gmail.com so I can share more information with you about the situation (so you can make a more informed decision about whether or not you want to help). I also have a pre-prepared form letter you can use.
Thank you for your time!
