I do agree that the pet store is at fault to a degree. But I also recognize that if I was to educate myself, knowing nothing, going to the breeder seems like the best idea. But there was basic issues, baby wasn't used to being weighed at all for example and they have no weight history for her. Further, it seems to be common sense that one feeding for any creature isn't enough. Employees could have assumed she was eating throughout the day. I do expect any shop caring for animals would wish to employee those with critical thinking skills. But many of the employees were young. Again, I fault mainly the breeder as I feel it is their responsibility to 1) feed and wean a baby and 2) place the healthy baby where it will be appropriately cared for- in both ways they failed.
Tonight's Koko update:
Updated labwork- kidney function is still showing below normal levels, but they expect that to take some time to come back up. She's gained some weight, but not as much as they would have liked. I'm sorry, I don't have numbers.
Current vet is taking her day's 'weekend' and leaving Koko in the care of another avian vet in the same office. Koko has a tube placed currently to facilitate feedings. They initially placed it when she came in and have thus left it as they have a good number of emergency cases leaving their time somewhat spread thin.
She was going to come home tonight but the initial vet played hardball with the pet shop, threatening to take the case to some lawyers (she was bluffing, sadly). They were able to get authorization to continue care until Saturday. It's not required really- she is strong enough to go home but it's somewhat of a situation of- 'if they'll pay for it, we want to watch her as long as we can just in case'. By the time we pick her up, she'll have spent more time at the vet then in our care.
They did xray's, viral and bacterial testing as well as ran a few more basic genetic tests looking for any underlying conditions- all came back negative. Her only issue appears to be she was half starved to death. Neurological function appears normal- that was a concern as her blood sugar levels got so low that when they first took her back she was showing abnormal neurological actions but it appears that no permanent damage has been done.
The vet did mention that if the pet store pulls out of her care, but she still requires care they would continue at no cost to us but we would have to sign an agreement not to leave her in the care of the pet store at any point within her lifespan- something I would gladly do. They understand that we did just move and money is somewhat tight and while we didn't complain or mention it except in passing while talking about our past rescue work, I am very thankful for the offer.
Her kidney markers may never fully recover, she may always be on the slightly abnormal side of kidney function so that may have to be watched. Her growth could also be stunted due to the possible length of time this has gone on. Lastly, she may be late to wean. Otherwise, we are looking at a complete recovery.
We are going to see if their office has calmed down tomorrow and maybe they will allow us to visit Koko for a bit.
Current vet has given us updates twice a day. The lady covering for her may only update us once a day as Koko is now in the clear.