JAMES HARRIS, DVM
Well-maintained fireplaces won't hurt birds
 Can you use ceramic logs in the same room as birds? If not, our birds have a sleeping room away from the family room with the fireplace. Would they be safe in this room when we use the fireplace, then could we return them to the family room the following morning?
-- Lucy Surchik
 Ceramic logs should be okay. The electric type are safe as long as there is no Teflon in their construction. The other type, which uses a gas flame, also should be fine as long as you maintain a good draft up the chimney. Wood and pellet fireplaces also are safe as long as they are properly maintained. The flue needs to be cleaned at least once a year and, if installed, the catalytic converter serviced as well. A proper draft up the flue should prevent any fumes from contaminating room air. And, of course, it should go without saying that open fireplaces should always be screened, even if your bird is clipped, to avert tragedy of another sort.
James Harris, DVM is owner and medical director of the Mayfair Veterinary Clinic in Sandy Bay, Tasmania, Australia. He founded Montclair Veterinary Hospital in Oakland, Calif., and has served as medical director and chairman of the board for the International Bird Rescue Research Center in Berkeley. Dr. Harris' numerous professional honors include California and National Bustad Companion Animal DVM Awards.
ParrotChronicles.com. Copyright 2010. All rights reserved.
Return to current Ask a Vet column
|
