A free, live, interactive webinar designed to equip pet bird owners with essential preparedness strategies for emergencies is scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026. Titled "The Grey Way — In Case of Emergency," the online event will commence at 12:00 p.m. PDT. Attendees are advised to utilize a time zone converter to confirm the local start time in their respective regions.
The webinar will be hosted by Laura Doering, a respected figure in avian media, having formerly served as the editor of prominent publications such as Bird Talk magazine and Birds USA magazine. Doering’s extensive experience in disseminating bird care information provides a strong foundation for the educational content to be presented.
The featured speaker is Lisa Bono, CPBC, a certified parrot behavior consultant and the owner and operator of The Platinum Parrot. Bono brings specialized expertise, particularly concerning African grey parrots, though her advice is intended to be broadly applicable to all pet bird species. Her presentation will focus on critical emergency preparedness measures that bird owners may encounter, ranging from unexpected veterinary crises to broader natural disaster scenarios.
Webinar Content: Addressing Urgent Bird Care Scenarios
Lisa Bono’s presentation, "In Case of Emergency," aims to provide practical, actionable advice for a variety of unforeseen circumstances that can impact pet bird welfare. The core of the webinar will revolve around anticipating and responding to immediate threats and disruptions. Key topics anticipated to be covered include:
- Sudden Illness or Injury: This segment will likely address recognizing the signs of distress in pet birds, immediate first-aid steps owners can take before reaching a veterinarian, and the importance of having a pre-established relationship with an avian veterinarian. Data from veterinary emergency clinics consistently shows that prompt recognition of symptoms and rapid response can significantly improve outcomes for avian patients. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery in 2023 highlighted that birds presented for acute distress within two hours of symptom onset had a 30% higher survival rate compared to those presenting after six hours.
- Storm Preparedness: With increasing concerns about extreme weather events, Bono is expected to discuss how to secure pet birds during storms, create safe havens, and manage the stress and potential physical dangers that severe weather can pose to avians. This includes considerations for high winds, flooding, and power outages, which can affect temperature regulation and access to necessary resources. Reports from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicate a statistically significant rise in the frequency and intensity of severe weather events over the past two decades, underscoring the growing need for such preparedness.
- Escape Prevention and Recovery: The distressing scenario of a pet bird accidentally escaping its enclosure will be a significant focus. Bono will likely provide guidance on preventative measures, such as secure cage latches and mindful handling practices, as well as strategies for effective recapture if an escape does occur. This includes understanding bird behavior when lost and utilizing appropriate methods for safe retrieval without further traumatizing the animal. Lost bird statistics are difficult to aggregate comprehensively, but anecdotal evidence from rescue organizations suggests that proactive measures and immediate, calm response significantly increase the chances of a safe return.
- Evacuation Plans: For owners in areas prone to natural disasters like wildfires, hurricanes, or earthquakes, Bono will likely cover the essential components of an avian evacuation plan. This includes identifying pet-friendly shelters, preparing travel carriers, packing essential supplies like food, water, medications, and medical records, and ensuring birds are microchipped or otherwise identifiable. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) consistently advises pet owners to include animals in their disaster preparedness plans, noting that pets are often left behind during evacuations due to lack of planning.
While Bono’s expertise is deeply rooted in the care of African grey parrots, a species known for its intelligence and complex social needs, the webinar’s organizers emphasize that the presented advice will hold relevance for owners of all bird species. This inclusive approach acknowledges the commonalities in avian physiology, behavior, and emergency vulnerabilities across different types of pet birds.
Background and Significance of the Webinar
The "Grey Way — In Case of Emergency" webinar emerges at a time when the human-animal bond, particularly with companion birds, continues to deepen. As bird ownership grows, so does the responsibility of ensuring their well-being, especially in critical situations. The increasing awareness of avian intelligence and emotional complexity, exemplified by species like African greys, places a greater emphasis on comprehensive care that extends beyond daily routines to include robust emergency preparedness.
Laura Doering’s involvement signifies a commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable information to the bird-owning community. Her tenure at leading avian publications has provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges and joys of bird ownership, as well as a network of trusted experts in the field.
Lisa Bono’s participation as the expert speaker is particularly noteworthy. As a Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant (CPBC), she adheres to rigorous professional standards and possesses specialized knowledge in parrot behavior, a field that has seen significant growth and professionalization in recent years. The Platinum Parrot, her business, is recognized for its focus on positive reinforcement and humane training methods, aligning with modern best practices in animal behavior. Her specialization in African greys, a species often considered a benchmark for parrot intelligence and behavioral complexity, means her insights into emergency situations will be particularly nuanced and well-informed.
The timing of the webinar, in early spring, often precedes seasons of increased natural disaster activity in many regions, such as hurricane season in the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, or wildfire season in the western United States. This temporal positioning suggests a proactive approach to equipping owners with knowledge before potentially critical events occur.
Registration and Accessibility
The webinar is being offered free of charge, a decision likely aimed at maximizing accessibility and ensuring that this vital information reaches as wide an audience as possible. Financial barriers can often prevent individuals from accessing specialized training, and the no-cost format underscores the organizers’ dedication to avian welfare.
Interested participants can register for the live event through a provided link: Register Now. This link directs users to a Zoom webinar registration page, a common platform for online educational events. Prompt registration is advisable, as attendance may be limited, and early sign-ups can also ensure participants receive any pre-webinar materials or reminders.
The use of a platform like Zoom facilitates interactive elements, allowing attendees to ask questions directly to the speaker during a Q&A session, enhancing the learning experience and providing opportunities for personalized advice.
Broader Impact and Implications for Pet Bird Owners
The "Grey Way — In Case of Emergency" webinar has the potential for significant positive impact on the pet bird community. By providing accessible, expert-led training on emergency preparedness, the event can:
- Reduce Pet Bird Mortality and Injury: Effective emergency response can be the difference between life and death for a pet bird during a crisis. Equipping owners with the right knowledge and tools can mitigate the risks associated with sudden illness, accidents, or natural disasters.
- Lessen Owner Distress: Knowing how to act in an emergency can significantly reduce the panic and anxiety experienced by bird owners when their pets are in danger. Preparedness fosters a sense of control and empowers owners to take decisive action.
- Promote Responsible Pet Ownership: The webinar reinforces the understanding that pet ownership entails a commitment to the animal’s welfare in all circumstances, including unforeseen emergencies. It encourages a proactive rather than reactive approach to care.
- Enhance Avian Welfare Standards: By disseminating best practices, the webinar contributes to raising the overall standard of care for pet birds, encouraging a more informed and prepared community of owners.
The focus on African greys, while inclusive in its advice, also highlights the specific needs of highly intelligent and sensitive avian species. As research into avian cognition and emotional well-being continues to expand, so too does the understanding of their vulnerability in stressful situations. This webinar aligns with a growing movement towards evidence-based, welfare-focused avian husbandry.
Ultimately, the "Grey Way — In Case of Emergency" webinar is more than just an informational session; it is an investment in the safety and well-being of countless companion birds and a testament to the dedication of experts like Laura Doering and Lisa Bono to the avian community. The availability of such resources free of charge signifies a crucial step in ensuring that all bird owners, regardless of their financial situation, have access to the knowledge needed to protect their cherished feathered family members in times of crisis.