Helping Out Bobby Boots
Helping Out Bobby Boots
by Dr. Glynnis Lam BVSc, Bird & Exotic Animal Clinic
When we met Bobby, he was scraping along on his hocks, causing them bleed. His feet are both turned in, collapsing onto his heels, and his toes did not function at all.
In an effort to aid him, we created him little boots.
First the leg is padded, then a firm plastic wrap is molded over to straighten his hocks. A foam pad is placed on the inner side of his palm and the toes redirected. A final piece of tape covers the toes to stop him chewing them. He is on daily pain relief and only allowed on soft surfaces. The whole rig is taken off every 3-5 days to check there are no pressure sores, and to give him a break.
First the leg is padded, then a firm plastic wrap is molded over to straighten his hocks. A foam pad is placed on the inner side of his palm and the toes redirected. A final piece of tape covers the toes to stop him chewing them. He is on daily pain relief and only allowed on soft surfaces. The whole rig is taken off every 3-5 days to check there are no pressure sores, and to give him a break.
Today, he is walking upright and can grasp with his toes when the boots are on. The aim is to give him enough function to perch and walk without pain. He will have the boot therapy for 4-6 weeks while he grows.
This is only recommended for young birds while their joints and bones are still pliable. If this was to be attempted in an adult, we would have to do bone realignment surgery, and that comes with major risks.
Please enjoy Bobby during cozy/socialization time. (We would not set him up like this if he showed any fear or stress response.)
Awww hope it gets better i have the same type of birb
person on
WOW! WOOOOOOOW!
Person on
Such a cute bird! i hope he’s better asap
Jack on
Poor little budgie. He’ a lucky to have people care about him.
Ziyad on
Bobby is so cute! :)
I hope his feet will get better soon!
E.C on
Aww, tiny boots! I know of a bird with a somewhat similar issue and was excited for a second that maybe this method could help him, too, but he’s probably much too old.
What’s up with his wings? Are they clipped? If he came from an abusive household, that would make sense. Or is this done medically so that he doesn’t break his toes before they are properly realigned with the (if our birds are any indication..) hard and abrupt landings?
H.S. on