Kevin's Rescue: A Tale of Triumph and Compassion

An incredible success story and the reason I started the non-profit rescue.

After speaking with the owner, it was clear that Kevin had lived in less than ideal circumstances. She had been kept in an outdoor dog run with a small dog and fed an inadequate all-seed diet bought from a swap meet and bird store. The owner mentioned that Kevin had laid an egg a few weeks prior, after which her health began to decline. Despite the challenges, I agreed to take over ownership and brought her home. Without a proper cage, I used a small travel cage lined with towels to minimize any pain in her talons and legs.

We quarantined Kevin in the dining room and set the cage on the table so she could look outside. We changed out her towels a few times a day. I soaked her in the bathtub weekly with a solution of warm water, Epsom salts, and apple cider vinegar. I added various pieces of wood in the bottom of the cage so that she could start using her feet to learn to grasp objects. When she tried to stand, she had to bite the side of the cage to hold herself up. We had to feed her by hand, crack nuts for her and encourage her to drink. We were given some medications, and we purchased additional supplements for her.

As the months passed by, we bathed her regularly, worked with her feet (rehab) and changed out the pieces of wood until she was able to grasp actual perches. Still on a variety diet, regular baths, rehab with her feet, and medications, she was finally able to stand without holding onto the cage.

Now a few years later and an updated diagnosis from a different vet. She is on daily heart medication, supplements, fresh water, a variety of food choices, and daily interactions with our family and the other birds (though they must be kept in separate cages). Kevin can not only perch on a variety of a diameter and shape of perch, but she can also balance on both legs without holding on and can balance on one leg to eat a nut while cracking the shell on her own. These past few months she started talking. Something she did not do for the first year.

Her journey from a fragile state to a lively and interactive bird has been truly remarkable. Kevin’s resilience and determination to survive and thrive have amazed us all. Each day, she shows new signs of progress and strength. A few of her feathers have grown back, creating a vibrant plumage that captures the essence of her newfound health.

Kevin’s story serves as a testament to the power of compassion and dedicated care. It reminds us that with patience, love, and the right medical attention, even the most desperate cases can have a positive outcome. Her presence in our home has brought joy and inspiration to our family, as well as a deeper understanding of the commitment required to nurture and rehabilitate animals in need.

This experience has also highlighted the importance of proper diet, environment, and stimulation for birds like Kevin. Providing her with a balanced diet and engaging her in daily activities has not only improved her physical condition but also enriched her mental well-being. Watching her interact with her surroundings and express herself vocally has been incredibly rewarding.

As Kevin continues to thrive, we remain dedicated to ensuring she receives the best possible care and attention. Her story will undoubtedly encourage others to consider the long-term responsibilities and rewards of rescuing and caring for animals. Kevin’s transformation from a state of despair to one of vitality and happiness is a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on the lives of those we choose to care for.

Kevin will need heart medications and regular vet visits every 6 months to monitor her heart condition. Donations will allow us to continue to give her the care she needs.