On Tuesday April 28th we lost our little Darby. Darby was a cockatiel who we had from the time that it was weaned. When I first saw him I fell in love and we would visit him every day (sometimes 2x a day) for about 3 weeks until he was ready to come home. Because Darby knew us so well there was no transition and he loved being with us. Darby had many beautiful things about him one was that he was so very friendly with all. We only had him 4 weeks but in that 4 weeks I taught him how to climb a rope, give Eskimo kisses and even turn around when I asked him to. Although we did take Darby to the vet, it was 2 days to late even with antibiotics. I did see a change in him 3 days before but because he was eating I thought perhaps he was just tired because we had visitors for a week and he did not get his 10 hours of sleep. I knew him, and perhaps if I would have taken him to the vet right away Darby would have made it. This was my 2nd bird. I had a dove for 20 years! Darby did wait till I got home and wanted me to pick him up. Using all of his strength he wanted to step up. I knew when I looked into his eyes that he was dying so we laid down as we always did and I held him, told him what I brave bird he was and that I loved him so very much and that all was good. I told him he would soon be flying over that beautiful Rainbow Bridge and I sang his favorite tune. (You are my sunshine). Darby is the only one in the family that thought I had a good singing voice. I do not think I have ever cried so hard. I had a dream of Darby last night and he looked so good. Darby was spreading his wings and in my dream he came up to my finger and gave me Eskimo kisses! I cannot believe that we bonded so very quickly.

One thing that I did notice 3 days before was that his poop was almost completely white and hard. Through research I found that it was dehydration.
But he was drinking and the food that I made him was always full of natural juices made by the vegetables.

I am so very sorry about your loss. Darby is flying free.......RIP little Darby.......

Thank you. The thing is that the breeder called me today and told me my new baby quaker (Loki) would be ready at the end of May. I am having such mixed emotions about this.

I am so sory for your loss!!!

I am so very sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you

Oh I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts are with you

I know and feel your pain. I have had birds all of my long life and have been where you are many times.
I know from experience that a new baby would help heal your hurt.
I'm truly sorry you lost your baby.
Best wishes to you

I also know your pain and am sorry for your loss ...My part of my heart fly`s over rainbowbridge, and the sorrow in my heart remains years on..... ((HUGS)) coming from across the miles...

awwww I just want to say that I am sending healing thoughts and prayers your way. It is never easy to lose a pet-- they touch your heart.

sorry about your loss. hugs

I can imagine it is never easy to let go but I do hope your heart will heal very soon....

You stated you are having mixed emotions about getting another birdie...well visit with Loki, I believe you named it, and see how the bond grows......and yes, you need to have the time to grieve....I feel Loki will help to heal your broken heart....

My thoughts are with you...........