I've always loved parrots. As a child, i loved going to my aunties house as she had a parrot and it was so amusing and lovely. Anyhow, my husband died last year leaving a vacuum in my life. Looking back at old photographs, I happened to spot one of me as a young girl next to my aunties parrot. I decided that I would purchase a parrot and this would help with my sorrow.

Looking back, I was stupid as I had not even learned how to care for a parrot. But, I recall my aunts words that all was needed was a bit of love, time, attention and patience I thought long and hard about patience as it was not one of my solid points. Before going to the pet shop, I wanted to stop by the library and take a look at various books. I knew a parrot would make a superb pet if cared for properly. A cheerful and content parrot would give me love and friendship back.

There were several good books in the library but one caught my eye. The book started me off from the basics such as making the cage large enough so that the bird could spread its wings. The bottom of the cage had to be lined with paper, cleaned and changed daily to stop food and bird droppings falling onto the floor, this was no trouble as I always have the hoover going. I would need to buy toys to keep it occupied, a perch and of course plenty of food, including a water bowl.

Reading on, the parrot would have to be washed once a week with water and dried with a towel. When its claws became too long, then it was advisable to let a veterinary clip them. The parrots diet would need to consist of fruit, vegetables, nuts and grain. Its water would have to be changed every day.

Wow, I never realized that there was so much to do when looking after a parrot. It did not put me off the idea in reality as I had too much time on my hands anyway. For a bird, social interaction is crucial and this was great as I was desperate for some company.

The pet store was the next place to visit. The man in the shop showed me a delightful Macaw with stunning colours of green and yellow. The shop assistant offered sound advice too, such as not cleaning out the cage with chemicals, just hot water. As I bought the cage, accessories and parrot all together, he gave me an wonderful discount.

Dolly, my parrot has been a great companion to me. It is not my imagination when I say that a bond was formed straight away. I can not imagine life without her. All the time, I am on the internet reading ideas and guidance about parrot care and training. How to train them, talk to them, keep them happy. Everything I need to know.

There are a lot of websites on parrots but a few in particular are my favourites. My house seems to be alive again with dolly keeping me delighted. Anyone that wants a pet should buy themselves a parrot.