Q: Where do the parrots come from that you place in foster care?
A: Parrots are surrendered by people who are unable to keep their bird due to moving, health, family changes, behaviors, death of owner, etc.

Q: Is it true that PAEP provides a cage, dry food, perches, toys, and a carrier to properly transport bird to and from adoption events or vet appointments?
A: Yes!

Q: Are there any out of pocket expenses for us?
A: Yes, fresh food and water (in addition to your attention and time).

Q: How long is a typical foster period?
A: There’s no set time. It depends on how it goes with you, and whether there’s someone interested in adopting that particular bird (including you!)

Q: What happens if our particular bird is not a good fit for us or more than we can handle, but we’d still like to foster another bird?
A: Super question!! (and the reason we offer foster) You let us know and if we can we’ll help you with your current bird or we’ll switch for a different bird.

Q: How does the adoption process work for a bird to transition from a foster home to a forever home and how do we handle requests for adopting a foster in our care?
A: All adoption requests should be directed to us. If someone is interested in the bird you're fostering, we’ll ask you first if you're interested in adopting. If you are, we won't set up interviews with anyone else, but will move forward with you on that adoption. If you're not interested, we’ll set up an interview for the prospective owner where they can meet the parrot.

Q: Is there any training provided prior to fostering on bird care basics?
A: We share whatever training and experience we have, so ask any questions along the way. We also host some training seminars.

Q: Can we request to only foster certain types of birds such as a parrotlet or conure vs. a macaw or african grey? We’re beginners and we’d like to start with a smaller or easier parrot.
A: We'll let you choose which bird you want to foster. This needs to be a good, fun experience for you!

Q: We were curious where you’re located and do you have a contact (foster parent) near us that we could meet to discuss the pros and cons of fostering with someone who’s doing it. We’d like to meet their foster birds and discuss parrot basics and get questions answered about the program and foster experience.
A: We’re located in Lino Lakes, near Forest Lake on 35W. We also have quite a number of foster homes and would be happy to put you in touch with one nearby.

Q: What happens if we think our foster bird may be sick? What’s your policy for getting the bird to a vet, and who pays the bill?
A: If there’s time, please call us to let us know what’s happening. If it’s really urgent, you call the vet and get it there as they advise. PAEP birds are all billed to our account. If it’s determined that it was neglect or abuse by the foster home, it will be charged back to you. (this has never happened yet)

Q: Do you recommend any websites for information on bird basics, basic care, handling, training and behavior?
A: Good Bird Inc & The Gabriel Foundation are two wonderful websites to check Good Bird also puts out a bi-monthly magazine, and we have three training videos by Good Bird to loan if you'd like.

Q: So how do your fees work for adopting a bird?
A: Adoption fees vary depending on the species. The fee includes the bird, some food and some toys. Carrier, cages, more food, perches or toys are available for an additional fee. Once we reach the adoption point, fees are due when you pick up the parrot and supplies. Cash is preferred and checks are acceptable.