FOR THE LOVE OF BIRDS

P.O. Box 229

Belford, New Jersey 07718

Help Save Pets

(609) 582-4909

Adoption Process

The first step in the adoption process is to complete and submit the Adoption Application by emailing it to [email protected]. The application must include two personal references and a veterinary reference. After reviewing the references, we will contact you to arrange a convenient time for a phone conversation. Once your application is approved, and depending on your preferences, lifestyle, and experience with birds, we will recommend a bird or birds for you to meet. You may also express interest in adopting one of our available birds. For small birds, such as finches and budgies, adoption can generally occur after just one visit to their foster home. However, medium to large parrots typically require at least three visits. This process allows potential adopters time to assess whether the bird is a suitable match for their family and lifestyle, while also preparing their home for the new arrival. Additionally, it gives the bird multiple opportunities to become familiar with you, as many birds may be hesitant during their first meeting. Furthermore, this arrangement allows the foster home to observe your interactions with the bird and provide valuable insights and education on bird care as needed. All our adoptable birds are cared for in private foster homes throughout New Jersey, where they are treated as unique individuals. Please be aware that we require a waiting period of at least six months before bringing new birds into your home. Each bird needs time to adjust to their new family and environment, and it is important not to rush this transition by introducing another bird too soon. An adoption fee applies, and details regarding these fees can be found on our website. Our birds will come with their cage, toys, and some initial food to help you get started. Additionally, all birds are tested for Polyoma, Psitticosis, and PBFD, and you will receive a copy of the test results. For The Love of Birds holds a permit from the State of New Jersey, Division of Fish and Wildlife, for the care and sale of exotic animals. All non-exempt exotic birds in New Jersey require a hobby permit. At the time of adoption, we will provide you with a 20-day temporary permit. You must file for a hobby permit within those first 20 days. Exempt birds include budgies, cockatiels, canaries, zebra finches, rock pigeons, and society finches, along with a few other species that we do not adopt out. Additionally, all other exotic birds must have a band or microchip and require a hobby permit from the Division of Fish and Wildlife. You do not need a separate permit for each bird you own. If you already possess a valid Individual Hobby Permit, you can add additional birds for a fee of $2.00 by contacting the Division of Fish and Wildlife, or you can wait until your renewal form is sent to you at the end of the year to list any additions.

Service Areas

We serve the areas of New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.

For The Love of Birds in Belford, NJ

For the Love of Birds is dedicated to charitable and educational initiatives focused on companion birds, specifically through rescue, care, and placement efforts. Parrots have exceptionally long lifespans, ranging from 20 to 80 years. Due to their nature as non-domesticated animals, they often transition between multiple homes for various reasons, including unmet expectations, the death of a caregiver, relocation, job loss, or other life changes. Our mission is to assist as many birds as possible in finding loving and knowledgeable homes in New Jersey and the surrounding areas. The founders of For the Love of Birds—Caryn Cullen, Joanne Freel, Patty Deitsch, and Kerrie Peterson—bring together over 30 years of experience in parrot rescue. We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit animal rescue organization operating in New Jersey. We hold a permit from the New Jersey Division of Fish & Wildlife for the possession of exotic and non-game wildlife species, as well as for retail sales in pet shops.

Nearby Shelters and Rescues

Mostly Shepherds Inc.
Located in New Monmouth, NJ

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Nature's Refuge
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East Coast Maine Coon Rescue
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Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation
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Wigglebutt Rescue, Inc.
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