Week 2 Day 4: Parrots, Puppy Mill Socialization class, Avril time and Reflections

Today was my second time at the Parrot Garden. It was different from the first time I was there because they usually have most of the work in the morning. I was able to help in cleaning the African grey enclosures, and they seem to really enjoy it when I hosed down the enclosure as well, where afterwards they got a treat. :) I also got the chance to do the same with the Cockatoo enclosures, where one of the cockatoos actually learned how to open the door, it is a good thing that there is another lock that he can't get into. :)

They sure love peanuts

Coming to get a treat

Nom nom nom

Turkeys outside

Gorgeous!

Trying to get out

Treats for me?

I was also able to work with my fellow intern, Leah, at parrots. We helped refill the cockatoo's bowls, hand out treats to the cockatoos, and also went in to give treats to the cockatiels and budgies, and the rest of the parrots downstairs.

Such a ham!

Cockatiel enjoying some millet

Mork and Mindy

Diego

For more adoptable parrots, visit: http://adoptions.bestfriends.org/Default.aspx?N=4294967174

Sometime in the morning, the other interns and I also attended the Puppy Mill socialization class. We learned about puppy mills and how to raise awareness and how to help the cause. To learn more about puppy mills, visit http://puppymills.bestfriends.org We also got the chance to socialize with some dogs and my were they all crazy for treats. :)

So cute!

Handsome (and very active) sheepdog

In the afternoon, I got to spend time with Avril, I took her to Angels Landing and also took the Hidden Lake Walking Trail. The only thing though is that we never really found the hidden lake. But we did get to see a whole lot more, and it was nice to explore a a new place with Avril. She also did well our walk and seemed to listen to me a bit better. Her loose leash walking has definitely improved and overall, I find spending time with Avril was great and it allows me to get to know her a bit better. After our walk, I took her back to the Garden and then proceeded to the bunkhouse for reflections. Our reflections this week was about an animal, that is not our project animal, and to tell their story and to give information about our suggestions to better care and fulfill the needs of the animal. I wrote about Panda, who technically is an informal project animal as my work with him is more during my volunteer hours.

Avril leading the way

One of the spectacular views during our walk

Avril taking time to smell the, um, er, dirt. ;)

:)

The view from where we rested before heading back.

Avril and I :)

A very tired Avril after our walk.

Tomorrow, I will be back the the Bunny House and it will be our second clicker training session. I have to admit I am looking forward to working with the guinea pigs at bunnies tomorrow. :)