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My pigeon has a broken wing. Can I care for it or should I euthanize?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Female
Hi.. I found a Pigeon with broken wing. I show her to 4 veterinarians and most of them recommend Euthanasia. I feel sorry for her. wing's bones are broken in several places and apparently not healing. apart from that, she is fine. what should I do? should I keep her this way or just give her a die with no pain?? now she's in small cage and after 3 months still afraid from me sorry for my English. Please answer my question :(
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 4th, 2017
Hi, I think it's quite amazing that you have cared so much for this pigeon. And, I can understand why you don't want euthanasia.
If you have had the bird for 3 months after the wing broke, then the most painful part of the break is likely over. The bones and flesh can heal over time, but it's not likely that the wing will ever work normal, so the bird will not be able to fly.
I can understand why the vets recommended euthanasia, because it would be a painful condition and the bird would not be able to fly again. However, if she is otherwise fine, then I think it is possible for you to keep her. You have to be committed to caring for this bird for the rest of its life though. It will never be able to go back to the wild. If you care for it, then you will need to feed her right and have a large cage for the bird to be happy. Otherwise, it's no life for a bird. If you cannot take care of the bird, or find someone to care for it, then I think it may be best to euthanize; otherwise the pigeon has no chance.
This website has good information on caring for a pigeon:
http://www.repticzone.com/caresheets/1299.html
These decisions are never easy and often there is not a clear right or wrong answer. In the end, you should do what you think is best for the bird.
If you have had the bird for 3 months after the wing broke, then the most painful part of the break is likely over. The bones and flesh can heal over time, but it's not likely that the wing will ever work normal, so the bird will not be able to fly.
I can understand why the vets recommended euthanasia, because it would be a painful condition and the bird would not be able to fly again. However, if she is otherwise fine, then I think it is possible for you to keep her. You have to be committed to caring for this bird for the rest of its life though. It will never be able to go back to the wild. If you care for it, then you will need to feed her right and have a large cage for the bird to be happy. Otherwise, it's no life for a bird. If you cannot take care of the bird, or find someone to care for it, then I think it may be best to euthanize; otherwise the pigeon has no chance.
This website has good information on caring for a pigeon:
http://www.repticzone.com/caresheets/1299.html
These decisions are never easy and often there is not a clear right or wrong answer. In the end, you should do what you think is best for the bird.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful