#behavior issues

Most caregivers focus on increases in things like self injurious behavior, meltdowns, screaming, aggression, eloping, etc..

But decreases in behavior can be a warning sign too.

Somebody who vocalizes a lot who suddenly goes quiet may not be well. A very energetic person who suddenly seems listless and passive may not be well. Someone who sleeps very poorly and now suddenly sleeps all the time may not be well. Somebody who puts food away like a black hole who suddenly has little or no appetite may not be well.

If you haven’t done anything to make the environment better and they are suddenly so quiet and not themselves, it may indicate something is going on and you should check it out.

And I don’t have access to a psychiatrist because my fucking health insurance is gone because I make “too much money” so now I’m just spiraling and I don’t know what to do. I’m like getting worse.

(Here is a thing I wrote for a Wordpress blog! Contains academic sources!)

Feather plucking in birds can be a confusing situation. Sometimes birds pluck themselves, sometimes they pluck other members of the flock; the cause can be a medical issue or the cause can be a behavioral problem. In this post, we'll take a look at the non-medical side to feather plucking.

Note: If your bird is plucking, please do not try to diagnose the cause on your own. Seek veterinary care, as the plucking could be caused by an underlying condition.

Birds are incredibly smart creatures, and without the proper environment and stimulation, they can turn to self-mutilation. Likely causes for behavioral-based plucking include stress, separation anxiety, lack of enrichment/interaction and attention seeking. It's also important for bird owners not to encourage behavioral plucking, especially if plucking is used as an attention grabber.

However, in a study called "Nonmedical Factors Associated with Feather Picking in Pet Psittacine Birds," published in the 2014 issue of Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery, researchers found that some species are more inclined to pluck. They found that African greys and cockatoos were more likely to pluck than other birds. A few other studies included macaws and eclectus parrots as being more likely to pluck. The researchers also found that rescue birds and birds given more than eight hours of out-of-cage-time were more likely to pluck.

So why would African greys and cockatoos be singled out as the most likely to pluck? African greys are extremely intelligent birds -- they're compared to human toddlers for a reason. Their intelligence may lend them to be more likely to suffer from lack of interaction and enrichment and turn to feather plucking. Cockatoos are also intelligent birds, but lean toward the affectionate side. Cockatoos crave socialization, and if they are denied that, especially if it is a single bird, they may pluck due to separation anxiety, lack of interaction or attention-seeking behavior.

On the flip side, over-stimulation can lead to plucking and feather damaging behaviors, too. Lack of sleep or downtime and constant noise (think young children playing or a noisy neighborhood) are examples of over-stimulation that are likely to cause stress and possibly feather plucking.

Mating behavior and territorial behavior may also lead to feather plucking. Either of these could lead to one bird plucking its flockmate. If this occurs, the owner needs to separate the two to prevent further aggression.

Why is your bird plucking? Even on the behavior-based/non-medical side, there is a plethora of reasons why a bird may pluck. Other research, which wasn't even discussed in this article, cites cage placement, sex and obsessive grooming as causes. It can be difficult to pin down the exact reason. The best way to answer the "why" is to evaluate yourself, your bird and your relationship. If you are able to examine your bird's behavior, diet, sleep schedule, toys, etc., you can narrow down your possible causes.

Section 1: Setting the Stage

Pitbull puppies, with their adorable faces and playful nature, are undoubtedly an irresistible addition to any family. However, just like any other breed, these little furballs may sometimes exhibit behavior issues that can leave their owners feeling overwhelmed. Are you struggling to tame the biting tendencies of your Pitbull pup? Wondering how to address their unruly behavior? Fear not! In this riveting blog post, we delve into the world of Pitbull puppies and explore effective strategies to solve common behavior issues, transforming your furry friend into a well-behaved, loving companion.

Section 2: Nipping It in the Bud

Imagine a world where your Pitbull puppy's adorable, yet painful, nips become a thing of the past. With our proactive approach, you can turn this fantasy into reality. By actively engaging in playtime, redirecting their biting impulses towards chew toys, you can guide your little bundle of energy to learn acceptable and safe behavior. Watch them transform from a mischievous nipper into a gentle and loving companion.

Section 3: Unleashing the Power of Training

Training your Pitbull puppy might seem like an uphill battle, but with the right techniques, it can become a delightful journey for both of you. Embrace the power of positive reinforcement and active participation, using treats, praises, and rewards to communicate your expectations clearly. Remember, every successful training session strengthens the bond between you and your pup, resulting in a well-mannered and obedient Pitbull.

Section 4: Socialization: The Key to a Well-Adjusted Pitbull

Are you worried about your Pitbull puppy's behavior around strangers or other animals? Socialization is the secret ingredient that unlocks the door to a confident, well-adjusted dog. Expose your furry companion to various environments, people, and animals from an early age, enabling them to become comfortable and friendly in any situation. By nurturing positive experiences outside the four walls of your home, you'll witness your Pitbull blossom into a sociable and loving member of society.

Section 5: Building Trust and Resolving Fear

Do you notice your Pitbull puppy exhibiting fearful behavior, such as cowering or growling? Building trust is paramount in overcoming these challenges. Take the time to understand the root causes of their fear and address them with patience and kindness. Through gentle exposure and desensitization, you can empower your pup to conquer their fears and embrace the world with confidence.

Section 6: Channeling Energy: A Balanced Approach

Do you often find yourself struggling to keep up with your Pitbull's boundless energy? Rather than being discouraged by their seemingly endless stamina, embrace it! Pitbull puppies are built for physical activity, and channeling their energy in a positive way can work wonders. Regular exercise, interactive games, and mental stimulation are key to keeping your furry friend happy and well-behaved.

Section 7: The Power of Love and Dedication

As a Pitbull puppy owner, your dedication and love play an elemental role in molding their behavior. Remember, consistency is key! Whether it's setting boundaries, persistently reinforcing training techniques, or showering them with affection, your commitment to their growth will reap long-lasting rewards. Embrace the journey, celebrate small victories, and watch your Pitbull puppy flourish into a loving companion you can be proud of.