Dear Judy,
I am tired of being laughed at. My oncologist refused to even deal with this issue. I am 80 years old, and my health is deteriorating, but not my mind. My parrot, Lou, who’s been with me for 18 years and seems to be in very good health, will outlive me.
My husband died long ago. I have a little money, no children to worry about. None of my friends, of whom there are fewer these days, wants Lou or wants to take him when my own time comes.
I have no idea what to do. Lou is in many ways my best friend. And certainly the most intelligent in all the ways that count. I don’t want him murdered by the ASPCA or some irresponsible city animal control agency after I die. So please come up with ideas.
Clara
Dear Clara,
I’m really sorry about your health, and I understand your concern for your parrot. Parrots can live a very long time, and perhaps it wasn’t the wisest idea to adopt one 18 years ago. However, the issue is what to do now.
My suggestion: ask your local library or perhaps the grown children of one of your friends for help in getting on an Internet ListServ. Then explain your issue, and ask if any of the ListServ members would volunteer to adopt Lou on your death. (Some respondents may want him now, and I think you have to be prepared for that. You might want to weigh your probable loneliness without Lou versus the comfort you’ll get from knowing he’s with a good family and will be cared for on your death).
In any event, please try this. It’s a good way of ensuring Lou’s future. And let me know how things turn out.
Thank you for writing
Judy
A homeless shelter might take him.
Sad situation. Most doctors don’t care about the soul. As though the human being is just a collection of atoms and feelings are irrelelvant.
Increasingly, assisted living communities are recognizing the beneficial affects of pets. A parrot would be a great addition to such a facility, so Clara might consider contacting them. And, if Clara’s health is detoriating but she is able to, perhaps she might joining Lou where he is accepted.
Also, since she has no heirs, she could very well have her will stipulate the money be used to care for Lou (I think Leona Helmsley did it for her pets, why not Clara?)
Assisted living communities (as Pauline mentioned), orphanages, or elementary schools are all worthy places for your parrot. He’ll get taken care of and will help others. Lou deserves the best and others can benefit. To me, it seems like a win/win.
Judy, When someone asks for advice, I don’t think the best response is to criticize their judgement (to adopt Lou in the first place).
Clara, This is not an uncommon concern among parrot owners. I agree with S.’s response on August 27th. “Rehomeing” parrots can be difficult and a parrot sanctuary may be a choice you would feel secure with. Consider making an arrangement with an established, credible sanctuary. Keeping a parrot for possibly decades is an expensive proposition, so if you have assets you could dedicate to helping maintain your parrot, I’m sure it would be helpful to the sanctuary. PS: I was surprized by the comment that the ASPCA murders animals - I know the ASPCA to be a leader in progressive animal advocacy and stewardship.