Guildford charity Parrot Conservation Australia is once again seeking the generous support of the local community after their beloved sulphur-crested cockatoo Gertie faced more health challenges as 2022 wound to a close.
PCA director Roger Sellwood said little Gertie had to be rushed to the Melbourne Bird Vet Clinic in Scoresby on December 30 as she was prolapsing badly.
“She was examined and it was noted she had an unexpected and unusual weight gain, the first fear was a tumour,” Roger said.
“However, after x-rays and an ultrasound, it was determined that it was fat and that her metabolism was playing up as she was already on a strict diet.
“The prolapse was stitched back into place, we were given antibiotics and pain killers and sent home, to try and correct her weight gain.
“She was put on a course of Thyroxine and an even stricter diet, the poor darling thought she was going to starve!”
Roger said it was just a few days later that Gertie tore the stitches from the prolapse by straining too much, and they rushed her back to the vet in Scoresby.
“The weight gain was causing her to strain so much that she was prolapsing, she was stitched up again but tore the stitches out again before we left the clinic,” he said.
“So now she is on her medication that helps prevent straining, but I still have to push her cloaca back inside her 10 or 12 times a day, so it is hoped that with serious weight loss she will come good and stop the straining.”
This episode cost more than $1200, money the charity just doesn’t have.
“In order to keep caring for Gertie and our other birds, we are asking our friends and supporters to help us with a donation if they can,” Roger said.
Funds raised will help cover Gertie’s vet bills but also support PCA with their weekly expenses such as purchasing fresh fruit, vegetables, seed and medications for the birds in their care.
“The response we received last time was incredible and we are extremely grateful for that ongoing support,” he said.
All donations are fully tax deductible and can be made directly to their account at BSB 633 000, account number 150767309 or through PayPal via the website at www.parrotconservation.org.au
