Developing·
The New Taipei City Animal Protection Office launches a non-dog and cat pet registration incentive program. The first 500 people will receive NT$300.
According to statistics from the New Taipei City Animal Protection and Epidemic Prevention Office, as of the end of August this year, 66 reports of missing parrots had been received, an increase of approximately 2 times compared with the same period last year. In order to enhance owners' responsibilities and implement identity management, the Animal Welfare Office has launched a registration incentive program. The first 500 people who complete the registration of non-dog and cat pets and download the "My New Taipei City" APP will receive NT$300, which can be used at the four major supermarkets and some cooperative stores. The event runs until December 31. The Animal Welfare Department stated that after accepting a report of a lost pet bird, it will make an announcement on the official website for 14 days to help find the original owner. Parrots that have not been claimed after the expiration date will be assisted by the Taiwan Bird Guardian Alliance Rescue Association. They will be open to the public for adoption after being assessed as suitable. The adoption status will be tracked regularly to ensure that the rescued birds are properly cared for. Veterinarians from the Animal Welfare Department remind that before raising a parrot, you should understand its lifespan and care needs. The common life span of small parrots is about 6 to 25 years, and large parrots can even live for more than 70 years. It is necessary to purchase a metal cage that is suitable for stretching and not easy to rust, and to feed special feed and fresh vegetables and melons. Change water regularly, clean feces and food residues, and provide appropriate companionship and safe time out of the cage. The most important thing to note is that the parrot's emotional changes include screaming, feather pecking and other abnormalities. The Animal Welfare Department pointed out that parrots have high IQs and strong learning abilities. They will open the cage door and escape by observing and imitating it. People can add buckles on the outside of the cage to provide an extra layer of protection to prevent escape, and put anklets on pet birds to increase the chance of recovery after they escape. Keeping a pet is not a temporary whim, but a lifelong responsibility. We call on the public to implement "nurture for life, never give up". From escape prevention, care to identity registration, taking one more step can increase the chance of your beloved bird returning home safely. If you find an injured pet bird or need rescue, you can call the Animal Welfare Department’s 24-hour hotline 1959 or (02) 2959-6353 to report it.