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STRINGFOOT
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how to help
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the basic steps
1. catch the pigeon
2. remove the strings
3. clean the foot
4. release the pigeon right away
how to catch a pigeon
when does a pigeon need more help?
the pigeon may need long term care at home
or at a local rescue charity.
Feral pigeons may have babies to care for
in a nest outside, so immediate release is
usually best. A pigeon may need homecare
when a foot is badly infected and it is
unlikely that they have been able to
care for and babies due to the injury.
Most rescuers have a good gut feeling
on when homecare is suitable
for a specific pigeon
wound care
immune help (sick or infection)
how to find local help
missing toes or feet
Can he still walk to get food?
Pigeons with missing toes or even entire legs
can have good lives.
He may have a mate or babies to care for outside.
feet and legs
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shopping list
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what you need
-
tweezers (diagonal tip works best)
- small scissors
- antiseptic spray or salt water (saline)
- a scarf or loose sock with the toe cut off to hold the pigeon
extras
- very small scissors (for thread or fingernails)
- alcohol wipes or spray to santize your tools
- a magnifying glass or cheap reading glasses
what to use to slow bleeding
Bleeding may occur while you are removing the string.
If so, you can gently place your finger
above the bleeding area, or on the pigeon's ankle.
"kwik stop" or "bleed stop" is a product sold at most pharmacies
to help slow bleeding. It is usually with the first aid or shaving supplies)
Turmeric is a yellow spice that can help slow bleeding.
It is also antibacterial, and will help the foot to heal.
Turmeric is a strong natural dye, and will stain your fingers
and clothing so be very careful and prepared for an accidental stain.
Corn starch is a powder used for baking that can also
slow bleeding. However, if corn starch is left on a wound,
it can lead to an infection. Corn starch must be washed off after use.
ice
Ice can be used to reduce swelling and make it easier to cut the threads
and hair. To transport ice you can use a thermos. You can also
freeze a large container of water and leave room on the top to add ice cubes .
for use. Make sure the ice is outside your bag so your belongings stay dry.
strong saline recipe
(if an antiseptic spray is not available)
Boil 250mL (1 cup) of water for five minutes, then add 1 teaspoon of salt. Let the it cool before using.
Store the saline in a clean container in the fridge, and make it fresh every day.
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keep the pigeon calm
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how to hold a pigeon
To hold a pigeon, gently cup your hand around his lower back to hold his feet against his body,
and his wings closed so he can not open them.
When looking at a pigeon, he will feel calmest if you hold him on
his side rather than belly up when possible. You will need to initially need
to look at all areas of his body including his belly and bum (cloaca).
Close your eyes or blink slowly to help the pigeon feel more relaxed.
hold him on his side
Pigeons feel much calmer when you hold them on their side.
Some stringfoot rescuers believe that the stress of being
belly-up for a long period of time while being worked on
may lead to death from stress.
You can gently pull the pigeons foot backwards to work on it.
let him rest
Work slowly. If he breathes with his beak open or breathes heavily,
let him have a rest.
carefully cover his eyes
Put a towel over his head to keep him calm in the dark.
Just make sure he can still breathe easily.
"will he be scared of me after?"
Usually pigeons understand that you were trying to help and are grateful.
You may see him bring his injured friends to you for help,
or just come by to say thank you.
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relax your eyes
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On very rare occasions the strings can be so deeply embedded that the rescuer
has trouble seeing them.
how to relax your eyes
- work outside in bright daylight when possible
- wash your hands and hold them over your eyes and look
into the darkness for a few minutes (palming)
- gently look around using your whole head
- blink slowly
- gently yawn
- watch a funny video
- take a break
- look at an object in the distance
- work in the early morning
- look at something you enjoy looking at
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stringfoot guides
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websites
www.stringfootpigeon.com
www.destringers-field-guide.com
reddit guides
https://www.reddit.com/...
https://www.reddit.com/...
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videos
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remember to hold him on his side
The videos may show some pigeons being held belly-up.
Pigeons feel much calmer when you hold them on their side.
Some stringfoot rescuers believe that the stress of being
belly-up for a long period of time while being worked on
may lead to death from stress.
You can gently pull the pigeons foot backwards to work on it.
videos
www.reddit.com/...
https://m.youtube.com/...
https://www.facebook.com/...
london pigeon stringfoot rescue
https://m.facebook.com/groups/...
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related topics
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get views and replies
how to catch a pigeon
how to find local help
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wound care
immune help (sick or infection)
feet and legs
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homepage (all topics)
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