Beware of Medical Predators
Aug 13 '00
Pet owners in general, and pet bird people in particular, tend to be a vulnerable marketplace that provides a field day of opportunity for the more avid practioners of avian medi-business.
While most doctors are genuinely motivated toward the healing arts, there are some notable loose cannons who will take the first opportunity to fleece the unwary and vulnerable birdowner. It is virtually impossible to prosecute these people, so the caveat must be emptore. Membership in an Avian Veterinarian Association is no protection agianst that, either, although it does improve the odds that you are dealing with a certified Avian Specialist.
Recently an acquaintance of mine took her parakeet in for a routine check at a well known clinic. (The bird was six years old, not ailing, but my friend thought it would be prudent to have a cursory look-see. Also she is a woman of means who parked her new Mercedes in the lot instead of driving her husband's old Buick there).
The practitioner suggested to her that the bird have a psittacosis test, a throat swab and a blood panel done, as well as a shot of vitamins. The practitioner told the lady how many dollars it would cost --a few hundred--and my friend said that that was acceptable. Then other tests were suggested and agreed to. The upshot was a bill exceeding a thousand dollars and by the time my friend got her bird home it had died of shock.
I have many stories like this, and owing to that I offer the few following guidelines:
Doctors are expensive, and they have every right to be. But if for very simple checks the doctor begins to tote up exams just "to be on the safe side," pay attention. If the doctor tries to sell you on a " new and improved" diet, listen up. If the doctor suggests that you leave your bird at the clinic for a few days and there are no red flags, beware.
There is Avian Medicine and there is Avian Medicine Business, and if, for some, they see you coming, they will bleed every available nickle without conscience.
I have a tremendous indebtedness to Avian Veterinarians, after all, I have cared for some many thousands of birds in the last twenty-two years, and have spent some thousands of dollars towards their medical services. But I did not spend that money capriciously or carelessly or fearfully.
One needs to educate oneself on the birds' needs and one needs to remember that not all of the human natures are beneficent. Live in your own practicality and not in the moment of an artificially instilled fear.
tell me your stories.
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