What should I prepare before leaving my African Grey with a sitter?
Planning a 10-day trip and need someone to look after Einstein. I've used Bird Sitting Toronto before and had a great experience, but I want to make sure I give the sitter everything they need. What's a good care checklist to put together?
For Picasso's sitters I do a full written care sheet: feeding schedule (what, how much, when), toys he likes, things that scare him, his personality quirks, vet info and emergency contacts. The more specific the better.
Video the morning and evening routines with your bird! Seeing you interact with Einstein helps the sitter understand what 'normal' looks like. Also note what sounds/phrases he uses for what — greys can be very communicative.
Don't forget to warn them about his vocalizations so they don't panic. And African Greys can be unpredictable with strangers — have the sitter visit at least once before the trip so Einstein sees them as a known person.
Ten days is a real commitment — Einstein is lucky to have a thoughtful owner! Here's a care prep checklist I'd suggest:
Food & Feeding
- Current pellet brand and serving size
- Vegetable and fruit schedule with portions
- Any foods he's been refusing lately (greys can be dramatic about food)
- Water change frequency
Routine & Personality
- Wake time and lights-out time
- Out-of-cage hours and how to read his body language
- Words/phrases he uses and what they mean
- Things that frighten him (vacuums? specific sounds?)
- Warning signs vs normal behaviour (fluffing, biting tendency with strangers)
Emergency Info
- Avian vet name, address, and phone number
- Your reachable contact info and a backup emergency contact
- Nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital
Environment
- Ideal room temperature
- Any drafts or areas to keep him away from
- Cover schedule at night
The intro visit suggestion above is excellent — let Einstein see you interact warmly with the sitter. Greys pick up on your trust cues. Have a wonderful trip!