Rehoming Process

The Essential Guide to Rehoming a Bird with RehomeCare Ltd

When individuals entrust their beloved bird to Birdline for rehoming, they do so with confidence, knowing that we are committed to safeguarding, nurturing, and finding the perfect new home for their cherished pet. Many former owners remain connected, seeking updates to ensure their bird’s safety and happiness.

We take this responsibility very seriously, conducting a thorough rehoming process that includes an in-depth phone interview and an in-person home check. While our detailed approach may seem rigorous, our top priority is ensuring that every bird finds a safe, loving, and well-suited home.

Why We Prioritize Face-to-Face Home Checks

Many ask why we require in-person home visits rather than video inspections. The answer is simple: a video cannot replace physically assessing a home environment. In-person visits allow us to spot subtle yet critical details that may be overlooked—potential hazards, improper setups, or environmental factors like air fresheners, candles, or smoke from cigarettes or vapes, all of which can be lethal to birds.

Beyond safety checks, we value the opportunity to personally meet potential foster families, establish trust, and build a lasting relationship. Fostering a Rehome Care Ltd is a unique experience, unlike traditional pet adoption. By joining us, you become part of a lifelong support network, dedicated to providing the best for these incredible birds.

Should I Apply for a Bird?

Fostering a parrot is potentially a lifelong commitment for both the bird and you. This decision should not be made impulsively, and we strongly encourage you not to apply on a whim. Take your time, conduct thorough research, and apply only when you are absolutely committed!

Consider whether the timing is appropriate to introduce a bird into your life. Contemplate upcoming life events such as impending births, family obligations, house moves, job changes, the addition of other pets, and how these factors may impact a bird. Is it fair to introduce a bird now, or would it be better to wait for a more settled time in your life?

Birds can be noisy, destructive, and potentially lead to health issues. Consider whether you or your family members have:

  • Allergies: Bird feathers, dander, and droppings may trigger allergies, resulting in breathing issues, sneezing, or skin reactions.
  • Respiratory Issues: Birds produce dust that can aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD.
  • Compromised Immunity: Some diseases can be transmitted from birds to humans, causing flu-like symptoms or worse.

 

The Rehoming Process

The first and most important thing to remember is that we only accept applications for one bird at a time. If you submit multiple applications, only the first will be processed, and any additional ones will be automatically withdrawn. So, choose wisely!

  • Our Rehoming Process is entirely bird-centered, designed to match each bird with the perfect home. The Safehouse caring for the bird submits a detailed evaluation to our Rehoming Team, which includes:
    Medical history (where applicable)
  • Personality traits – likes, dislikes, and habits
  • Special care requirements

This information forms the bird’s profile, which is featured on the Meet the Flock page.

While profiles provide a concise overview, they don’t include every detail. However, throughout the Rehoming Process, we ensure full transparency, sharing all essential information to help both the bird and the potential fosterer make a well-informed and seamless transition.

What we look for in a Rehome Care Ltd

The main purpose of a home check is to check your circumstances are suitable for a bird, and to ensure certain health and safety aspects are either in place, or you are committed to establishing them. Your home doesn’t have to be spotless or super tidy, but it does have to be hygienic and not have so much clutter that it could injure the bird. We will ask to see your ID, have a friendly chat and ask you to show us around your home. We give applicants the opportunity to rectify any issues, and improve their knowledge before making a final decision.

Points we usually address in home checks and follow ups are:
  • Safe window and door openings.
  • Exposed wiring, which should be adequately covered or concealed.
  • Non-stick pans or electrical items with Teflon (air fryers, irons, waffle makers).
  • Lethal detergents such as bleach, spray polish etc.
  • Toxic plants, cigarette smoke, e-cigarettes, drugs, air fresheners, essential oils, fragrances, perfumes, aerosols, solvents that may be present.
  • Heating systems which emit fumes e.g., paraffin, log burners, gas.