This uniquely adorable pigeon is Sardine. Her friends call her Teeny Weeny Sardiney, and if you're reading this, you may call her that too! Sardine is a rescue pigeon who was most likely exploited as a breeding hen in her previous life. I fell in love and quickly adopted her! Back in 2023, I adopted another pigeon (Valentino) who Sardine fell in love with, and she immediately began laying eggs for him (as all happy and healthy female pigeons do).

A few months back her egg production stopped completely. Nothing showed up on X-ray.

Ultrasound showed two yolks in her reproductive tract. Her doctor suspected impaction, but was hoping conservative treatment would help.

We put her on an antibiotic and an anti inflammatory for three weeks, but she did not lay the eggs on her own. A repeat ultrasound showed they were still there, but now there was a third.

She now needs a hysterectomy to remove the egg impaction. At this point her body will not lay them (or reabsorb) on its own and needs surgical intervention. If they remain, they can become infected and cause deadly sepsis.

This is a very risky surgery, but it is no longer a matter of if, but when it happens. I opted to do the surgery now while her health overall is stable. The longer we wait, the higher chance of her health taking a quick turn and lowering her chance of survival.

Unfortunately one of my other birds, Pomelo, had to have surgery on his wing to remove a feather cyst during Sardine's findings. His surgery went very well, but it was more than expected. I'm seeking the help of friends and family, and kindhearted strangers, to help with the cost of Teeny Weeny Sardiney's surgery. It's estimated to be between $3000-$4000 but it could be more depending on if anything insidious is hiding in her reproductive tract.

She goes into the vet for surgery on June 11th. We would be forever grateful for any help, whether it's monetary or even just sharing this fundraiser. Keep Teeny Weeny Sardiney in your thoughts!

Thank coo so much for reading!