Parrots for Patriots

Reviews From Veterans

Clark County’s Birdman expands his operation with Veterans Toy Division

Vancouver man grows NW Bird Rescue and Parrots for Patriots program

VANCOUVER — If you ever have lunch at the Subway off 136th Avenue in Vancouver, you might see a peculiar and amazing site: a man ordering lunch with a large parrot resting on his shoulder.

This man is long-time exoctic bird rescuer, Chris “Birdman” Driggins. The nickname he’s carried for over 20 years.

Read entire article at Clark County Today

Animal companions, like parrots, have proved to be a powerful source of joy and wellness for people dealing post traumatic stress (PTSD).

Some birds, such as parrots are incredibly intelligent and can learn to understand and mirror basic language skills. They also display “human-like” behaviors and at the same time have specific needs which a human companion can fulfill. This creates a safe and useful environment for PTSD sufferers.

While there is a lack of research on birds as animal companions for PTSD sufferers, there is growing evidence of their abilities to help. Parrots for Patriots aims to match abandoned or orphaned birds with veterans who may be in need of an animal friend to care for and from whom they can take support. These birds don’t just help PTSD sufferers, but they may be well-served by having a bird companion.

We feel that this is a must see Video for anyone considering to adopt a parrot for the first time. Even experienced parrot owners appreciate this wonderful video. This video From PBS and NATURE – From the wilds of Costa Rica to the suburbs of our own country, parrot owners, rescuers, breeders, and biologists involved in conservation programs share their stories and the stories of their parrots in this bittersweet and unforgettable film about the difficulties and consequences of keeping and caring for parrots as pets.

     EXCELLENT  
     Based on 54 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   John Bible 
 2023-12-11
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was in Portland Oregon today for other reasons. I Had been on  Parrots for Patriots their web site several times and, i thought i would drive over to Vancouver.  I was able to reach a gentleman by the name Chris.  It seems he was going on a rescue.  So he did not have any adoptions going on.
He asked me if I was a veteran. I told him I was. He said he just might have something I'd be interested in.The more we spoke, the more I was interested.  I met him and Jerry (Right hand man I'd say) An honor.  I now have the bird I have always wanted. Five hours max. Went to Jerrys house, amazing!! Met his very nice family.. Who all seem to have a vested interest in making a difference.  It is nice to see. Again, I thank them for their time in service.  Forever in their dept...
Joh n A Bible
  
 
       
   Liz McGrew 
 2023-11-14
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris at Parrots for Patriots was exceptional.  When you adopt from him his passion for helping these birds really shines through.  Our little guy came with the best care package I didn't even know I'd need, to include his cage and toys but also a big box of different food and toys and pellets and treats and a clicker for training and books and a magic bullet to make my own chop and a wifi camera for his area so I can keep an eye on him even when I'm not home.  Not to mention Chris is very adamant that if you need anything or have any questions you can call, always.  Bringing a bird home is kind like a baby.  They're all different and unless you're really seasoned you can feel like you're not sure the best way to handle everything but going through parrots for patriots really took all of that worry away for me because I have so much info and resources and I know I'm starting with great food and chop and that I left with everything I need.  I cannot recommend Chris and parrots for patriots enough!
  
 
       
   Sally de Lorimier 
 2023-10-30
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently bought 3 pizza wooden toys for my two umbrellas and my B&G macaw. They are huge and rather heavy. At first I wondered if I had made a mistake. I mentioned this to Chris and his advice was to hang the toy outside the cage so the bird will get used to it. I did this, but I also reduced the size by half because my birds were still wary.
I then placed the toy inside. My birds went nuts! They love this toy!
I’m very happy as well because I was used to them destroying a $20.00 toy in 2 to 3 days. This toy lasts much longer and the beauty is you can buy refills!
I haven’t even touch a refill yet.
There’s quite a lot of debris, but if my birds are happy, I’m happy!
I highly recommend these well thought out and well constructed toys!
  
 
       
   Mark Crothers 
 2023-09-18
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience!
Chris walks you through all the ins-and-outs of caring for your bird.  Introduces you carefully and makes sure you are compatible.  Then sends you home with more stuff than you can carry to make sure you are wanting for nothing!  I almost feel like I'm pestering him with all my phone calls with every little question that comes up, but he is nothing but gracious and helpful when I call.
  
 
       
   Gene Thompson 
 2023-07-13
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ronda and I had the privilege of meeting Chris and crew at Parrots for Patriots. Ronda is a Gold Star mom and I am an Air Force veteran. Parrots for Patriots was a blessing when we were looking for a bird to enrich our home and lives. I have had several birds in my life and Ronda has wanted to get a bird for some time. We had the privilege of being matched with, meeting, and adopting Bella who was in need of a new forever home. Bella has blended in to our little family very effortlessly. As part of the adoption, we were provided with a care package (which included lots of food and reference material), cage, carrier, and an extensive amount of information and advice on helping Bella settle in with us.
Parrots for Patriots also continues to be a resource for us (and everyone who adopts from them). Chris made sure that we were given everything we needed to make the adoption a success, and contact information with the organization if we have any questions or problems. Parrots for Patriots does charge an adoption fee, but the fee goes right back into the daily care and housing of the birds they care for and to enable them to supply persons adopting the birds the large amount of items that come with the adoption. Chris was wonderful and easy to work with. The work Parrots for Patriots does for the birds and for veterans is priceless.
  
 
       
   Amy Barsness 
 2023-06-29
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris and his volunteers at Parrots for patriots are absolutely amazing.  They are passionate about their birds and strive to make the adoption process as easy and safe as possible on the birds and the adopters.  Yes they have a stringent adoption policy, but this is to insure the birds are going to the best possible homes.  The birds are a lifetime commitment and they want to insure that people are aware of this before they make a decision that can further stress the birds.  Chris goes out of his way to make the adoption process smooth.  He even went as far as to set us up in a hotel.  The care package was over the top!!  We were expecting a small sample of each of the items listed, but instead we were overwhelmed with the amount of items included (This isn’t including the toys and the cage that was included in the adoption).  Chris is also sending us extra supplies via the mail.  He really sets you up for success with your new baby.  He went over her bio and the food prep in the meet and greet (also sent us home with fresh chop!).  Chris is also setting us up with our local parrot shop for a grooming.  We are so happy with the process!  We will definitely be going through him with any future adoptions.

Thanks again Chris it was a pleasure meeting and working with you!

Amy and Jesse
Spokane WA
  
 
       
   Morgan Miller 
 2023-03-16
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was an honor to meet Birdman(Chris), his Parrots, his team, and to see the operation! The knowledge I received from my experience with him was nothing short of amazing. Birdman and his team are really doing things right. As a result, I now need to really think about purchasing the Parrot of my dreams. Had I not received the education needed, I would of just attempted to make a purchase without really knowing what I was getting into. I now understand, these Parrots require your maximum attention and responsibility. When cared for and treated properly they truly become your best friend. This man really cares about you and the life of these Parrots. Thank you for not trying to make a quick sale Birdman and educating me on the ownership of a Parrot. You really don’t see this much attention and care anymore. With Birdman you actually do.

Thank you Birdman 🦜 !
  
 
       
   Mark Wangerien 
 2023-03-12
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris and all the people working at Parrots For Patriots are fantastic! I just adopted a wonderful Caique Parrot the is the sweetest bird. The amount of resources that Chris provides to veterans is incredible; a great cage, informative books, tons of toys, food, carriers and and an overall wealth of parrot knowledge. On that I also recieved a care package that is a tremendous value. I would definitely recommend Parrots for Patriots to any veteran that is ready and able to adopt a bird in need.
  
 
       
   Christopher McGrew 
 2022-09-13
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Chris is an amazing fountain of knowledge!  My wife and I got to spend a few hours with him learning do’s and dont’s of parrot ownership. The aviary is amazing. The care taken here amazed us both.  Parrots are a real responsibility and we left understanding that and fully prepared with cage, food, toys, recipes and even books to help us.  We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.  Thanks again Chris, for everything. Might see you again in a couple months! Here is our new family member sweetie! This program is great for vets who want a companion!
  
 
       
   Robert H 
 2022-05-30
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I called because I have a rescue Umbrella Cockatoo that is having issues. I met with Chris and he set me up with a cage that would be better suited for 'Buddy', since he was chewing his way out of the one I had him in. I ended up spending probably 2 hours with Chris, he was terrific. Very knowledgeable and goes way above and beyond. He ended up loading me up with a very generous starter package for Buddy, along with some parts for me to make some toys.
It is immediately obvious that Chris truly cares for birds and knows quite a lot about them, he also cares about his clients.
Thank you again Chris, for all the advice and help, I highly recommend this organization for your bird's needs!

Birdman’s Exotic Bird Sanctuary Division

Upcoming Parrots For Patriots Toy Division

Parrots Available for Adoption

Amazon’s Available

African Grey’s Available

Cockatoo’s Available

Quakers Available

Macaw’s Available

Parrots for Patriots is Sponsored by:

Top Notch

Absolutely fantastic experience with Chris and his organization. From initial contact to the bird being in my home was amazingly expedient, thorough on all details for both of us, and truly exceeded my expectations! If you have room in your heart and home for a beautiful companion this is a top notch place to go.

Will