It's about time!

[lg2312]

I am soooo bad! I turned to you fine folks when I was in a panic over my newly acquired Moustached Parakeet who was a basket case, and got great advice. I think I updated only once or twice and left everyone hanging!
Well, great news!!! Hank is a fully feathered, normal bird now! He has gained weight, grown in all his chest and neck feathers, and only does the neurotic pacing when he is attention seeking, which is rare.
He is a great bird. He rides well, gets along with the Quakers, and loves his mama more than anything! Unlike the Quakers, he loves everyone! Anyone new coming in my house will quickly be paid a visit, like it or not.
I am shocked. I had hoped he would grow his feathers back, but really did not expect him to be calm and normal after all he has been through. He bucked the whole 'routine' idea, but now that he is in one, he is so much better.
Most everything I have read about this species seems to not fit him. They say they are stubborn, and to that much I agree. But he is a lover, unlike what I had read. He wants to be with me every second. He will eat (or try) anything I offer him. And he is a calm, fun low maintenance friend.
Within the last 2 months, we have achieved another goal - he actually lets me scritch on his head and pet him some. When I got him, it was impossible (well, for me- not Dr. C) to get a hand even close to him.
I was worried sick when I left my birds with a friend for an overnight trip to Chicago. I can tell you with confidence, the Quakers were far more upset! He didn't pluck or get an attitude- I think he got even more spoiled.
It is amazing what eight months of love and consistency can do. His progress has exceeded my expectations and then some.
Some of you might recall when I got him- he was in a major panic which put me there too- and I think that further increased his stress. Yet, with all your words and encouragement, and of course our legendary good Doc, this story has a very happy ending.
So... thanks once again and I apologize if anyone had wondered how the crazy MP was getting along!
Here are some pics...
before:
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q50/lg2312/hankfeb1.jpg

And now:
http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q50/lg2312/P8150116.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q50/lg2312/P8150118.jpg

[Nolan's Mom]

He is BEAUTIFUL! Wow! What a wonderful success story!

[Shirley]

Great to hear your progress, and what gorgeous photos! Thanks!! :beerchug:

[Ellen K. Cook, DVM]

Thanks so much for posting Hank's picture-he was always gorgeous (they all are to me :p ), but now he is STUNNING!!

Thanks also for your kind words, but most of all, thank you for rescuing Hank and giving him the love he obviously thrives on! Another testimonial for positive reinforcement :thumbup:

[Eriisu-chan]

Good job on turning his life around! WOW! :thumbup:

[Sue]

Wow!! what an amazing job, WELL DONE!:woot: :heart:

[lg2312]

Thanks everyone! This whole experience has shocked me beyond belief.
I look at the before and after pictures (and videos) and I have a smile on my face that won't go away!:wub:
Honestly, in January I did not even know if he would live because of his emotional distress.
I know people that take in any and every bird in need and my hat certainly goes off to them. The cost, both emotional and financial, can be enormous- yet the few times you can get lucky like this must be the reward. I have a few friends who will have 30-50 at a time, most in bad shape. I just can't imagine. I only wish I could have that kind of strength.

[SummerJ]

You have done a great job with him. Not only is be beautiful, but is sounds like you have his complete trust. Great job!!