Broken leg

Question
I am adopting a baby cockatiel, 3 weeks old that just broke it's leg.  I have hand feed before but am not sure how to deal with the broken leg.  All that is near me is regular vets and none of them deal with baby birds.  The owner of this bird was going to put it down and I couldn't handle that.  If you could posible walk me through setting the leg I will do anything not to let it die.  Any help is very appreciated.
Thank you,
Rebekah

Answer
Hi Rebekah,

 I am afraid to say that I am not going to be able to help you with this. I am not a veterinarian and no one but a vetrinarian should set a broken leg. There are hundreds of critical nerves and muscles as well as the blood supply running through that leg and attempting to set it yourself could not only cause this baby a lot of pain but could cause it to die a slow painful death. If you are really committed to the idea of saving this baby you will have to find a vet who can set the leg even if it means driving a great distance. You will also need to do this quickly before any further damage is done to the leg or before it begins to heal improperly.

 I hate to put any animal down and will do all I can to save one but sometimes putting one down is the kindest option. I know it is a hard thing to do especially with a baby.  

 Best of luck to you. I hope you are able to get this bird healed and healthy.


Jan