by Tracy Woodson, ThePerch.net

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and we know that many of you prepare your kitchens ahead of time in anticipation of the big feast and family gatherings.

We encourage you to plan now for a safe and happy holiday season for both you and your feathered friends:

Your ovens' self-cleaning cycle is known to be deadly to birds. It's just not worth the risk. Do not use oven cleaner sprays as aerosols in general are lethal to your bird(s). We suggest that you search the internet for safer alternatives. Some of our customers have suggested using baking soda and a scrub brush, others report using half a lemon dipped in salt to clean their oven.

As you are likely already aware, Teflon (and all similar brands of non-stick cooking utensils) are also lethal. We strongly advise avoiding the use of Teflon and related products in your home. It has also been reported that some cooking/roasting bags, often used during the holiday season, emit toxic fumes that have caused the death of birds.

The respiratory systems in birds is extremely sensitive and we want you and your birds to be safe, healthy and happy during the holidays as well as throughout the rest of the year.