T.J. Lafeber Avian Practitioner Award

Dr. T.J. Lafeber, Sr. was recognized as a pioneer in companion bird medicine and the human-companion bird bond. His concern for the health and welfare of his avian patients led him to develop medical treatments, diagnostic techniques, and nutritionally balanced foods. Dr. Lafeber's lectures were infused with his caring demeanor and enthusiasm, inspiring students and veterinarians alike to advance the fledgling field of companion avian medicine. The T.J. Lafeber Avian Practitioner of the Year is presented annually to an outstanding practitioner who is advancing the quality of health care for companion birds.

Featured Product

Nutri-Forage “Pack-n-Snack” is a nutritious treat that provides enrichment by encouraging foraging. Foraging is the act of searching for and finding food, and this practice significantly improves the mental well being of captive birds. Foraging may also help to manage feather destructive behavior and other abnormal, repetitive behaviors in psittacines. Warm Nutri-Forage in an oven or toaster oven, then use a small spoon to fill the enrichment item (like the paper cups shown here).

Preventive Medicine

Quarantine is a basic component of good preventive medicine. Quarantine birds for a minimum of 30 days, and house new birds as far as possible from breeding birds and the nursery.

Featured Contributor

Dr. LoraKim Joyner’s experiences are as varied as her articles on conservation medicine. Dr. Joyner has a DVM as well as a master’s in preventive medicine. She has worked abroad in the Phillipines and Latin America and at the Non-domestic Avian Clinic of North Carolina State University (NCSU). She later served as the NCSU Community Advocate, where she taught ethics and grief management. LoraKim currently serves as minister of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Gainesville, Florida as well as a consultant for Wings of Compassion, a website dedicated to grieving, healing, and hope in avian-human relationships.