A sick cockatoo lost his home after he was abandoned to a humane society. Then the foster caregiver who was looking after him passed away. And by the time Cumulus arrived at the Medical Center for Birds in Oakland, California he had some very serious behavioral and health issues. Veterinarian Brian Speer and his wife Julie asked the rescue that had him if they could make him a permanent resident and they agreed.
Julie says that Cumulus is, by far, the most amazing pet she’s ever encountered in her 26 years in the veterinary field. After several surgeries and working on his behavior, Cumulus’ amazing personality has emerged.
“He is the most entertaining, wonderful comic relief any practice could have,” Julie says. And when things get down and serious at the clinic, Cumulus will sing cute songs and burst out laughing. But we are wondering who’s Eric?
Dr. Speer says that ultimately it was good that Cumulus was surrendered by his original owner because he wouldn’t be alive if he wasn’t. And it’s so wonderful to see Cumulus so happy and doing well. Dr. Speer says their goal at the clinic is to restore happiness. In this, they’ve succeeded!
Julia regularly shares adorable videos of Cumulus on TikTok. One area of behavior that they’ve worked through with him was his fear of water. She shared a video of him enjoying a shower.
“It makes me emotional how far he’s come! He used to be so incredibly afraid of water I never dreamed we would get to the point where he actively sought it out! A constant reminder to me to be patient,” Julie writes.
And Julie answers questions for everyone about the 18-year-old Cockatoo and why he had to have the surgeries and why he wears a collar from time time in the video below. She also answers who’s Eric.
