More than 100 Birds Rescued from Cruelty and Neglect in Ohio

The Humane Society of the United States’ Animal Rescue Team and other animal welfare organizations were called in by The Humane Society of Greater Dayton to assist in the seizure of more than 100 parrots from “Wings Over the Rainbow” in Moraine, Ohio. Wings Over the Rainbow promotes itself as a bird sanctuary, but officials found the birds housed in deplorable conditions. The birds will now be cared for at an emergency shelter. 

“The birds were clearly suffering and I am relieved that we were able to come to their aid,” said Brian Weltge of The Humane Society of Greater Dayton.  

“The Humane Society of the United States is grateful to The Humane Society of Greater Dayton and the Moraine Police Department for enforcing Ohio’s animal cruelty laws and we are glad to help rescue these birds,” said Adam Parascandola, director of animal cruelty investigations for The HSUS. “Whether or not Wings Over the Rainbow started out with good intentions, we can’t turn our backs on animals in need. Parrots are highly intelligent, social and long-lived animals, and they deserve to be protected from cruelty.”

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton became concerned about this facility after receiving numerous complaints from local citizens about the condition of the birds housed there. When responders arrived on scene they found approximately 100 parrots, amazons, cockatoos, macaws, cockatiels and Quaker parrots living in filthy, cramped conditions. Many were suffering from malnutrition, dehydration, mental distress and zoonotic diseases.

“This case illustrates why national accreditation for avian sanctuaries must be mandatory,” stated Matt Smith, executive director of Central Virginia Parrot Sanctuary. “With countless birds relinquished by their owners every year, the need for a safe place for them to land becomes ever more urgent.”

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton, The HSUS and Central Virginia Parrot Sanctuary will safely transport the birds to a temporary emergency animal shelter. Responders from Miami Valley Bird Club, Moraine Fire and Rescue, Montgomery County Mental Health Crisis Counseling, Montgomery County Health Department, Montgomery County Environmental, Moraine Zoning and local veterinarians are also assisting with the transportation and temporary caretaking of the birds. Once at the shelter the birds will be thoroughly examined by a board-certified avian veterinarian and will receive any necessary immediate medical treatment. PetSmart Charities has donated bird food, cages, toys and other supplies to assist with the rescue efforts. The HSUS will remain on the ground to assist Humane Society of Greater Dayton with the first 10 days of sheltering and emergency care. HSGD will continue the shelter and care of the birds until they are able to be placed in sanctuary or safe, loving homes.

This transport vehicle used for this rescue was purchased with generous gifts from Dr. Terri Snow and Dr. Judson Snow; the Arthur E. Benjamin Foundation; American Dog Rescue and an anonymous donor.


Source