Commonly known as “budgies,” parakeets are a type of parrot originating from Australia. They're extremely smart and can learn as many as 100 words. To best ensure the bird's comfort and safety while settling into a new home, there are some definite "must-haves" an aspiring bird owner should buy and prepare before bringing it home. Luckily, The Pet Hale in Mililani, HI has everything you'll need to get started, including the parakeet!

• A clean, furnished bird cage. Buy a cage with plenty of length (more important than height) and make sure there are no broken parts, as these could injure your parakeet. Wash, dry and sanitize the cage and everything in it, including perches, cups, toys and grating. Buy a cage cover to use at bedtime, as birds are very sensitive to noise and light. Lastly, consider buying a travel cage for both easy transport and temporarily housing your budgie whenever you clean the main cage. Ask The Pet Hale about their “birdy backpacks.”
• Budgie food. To help alleviate stress, feed your budgie the same food it ate before, or as close as possible (e.g. the same brand). Spray millet is one common choice for new owners. Birds love fresh greens, too. Over time, you can introduce your budgie to new treats and discover new favorites.
• Pet Accessories. As your parakeet gets settled, you will want to set up some toys or an out-of-cage play area. Find a suitably sized budgie stand or play gym to set up near the cage. Make it a fun, safe place to interact with your budgie and teach it new tricks.

When you're ready to get a parakeet, stop by The Pet Hale. A family-owned and locally-run business, The Pet Hale practices ethical adoption practices, only obtaining their puppies that have been screened by a licensed veterinarian from local families and shelters. For more advice on pet adoption or to inquire about other products and services, call The Pet Hale at (808) 696-1083.