Taking My Diabetic Toucan to the Vet (His Tongue Fell Out 😱😭)

In early 2021 my 10 year old male toco toucan was diagnosed as pre-diabetic, so I went through a diet overhaul with him trying to keep him from becoming full blown diabetic. But, it didn't work and in October 2021 he was diagnosed as diabetic and went on an oral insulin dosage. Although we saw a small amount of recovery in about a two week period, we seemed to hit a wall with his recovery.
The ideal range for a toucan is 200-400 and Rocko's levels were at 600. But just 3 months later, his levels sky rocketed to 1,300. And days later it went as high as 1,790 during his stay at WSU.
This video documents our medical journey with Rocko and everything we've experienced so far. I am putting this information out here in great detail for the benefit of others who care for toucans and struggle to do so because of the lack of resources and accurate information available.
Huge thank you to WSU for allowing me to share my journey and some footage from their clinic - I couldn't ask for a more capable and caring team to be helping Rocko through this. If you or someone you know has up to date information on toco toucan care, please share it with me [e-mail].
TO SEND MAIL 📬
217 CEDAR STREET 401
SANDPOINT, ID 83864
MY BIRDS (Oldest to Youngest) 🐦❤
BONDI 💗 Galah | hatched 2005
CRESSI 💗 Congo African Grey | hatched 2007
BANDIT 💙 Galah | hatched 2008-2019 💔
JINX 💙 Blue Throat Macaw | hatched 2008
COMET 💙 Yellow-Dominant Camelot Macaw | hatched 2008
TUSA 💙 Blue-Green Dominant Camelot Macaw | hatched 2008
ROCKO 💙 Toco Toucan | hatched 2011
LILY & PHOEBE & DETKA 💗 Sun Conures | hatched 2011
BLUEBERRY 💗 Budgie | hatched June 2019
😍 ABOUT US 😍
BirdTricks is a husband-wife team; Dave and Jamieleigh Womach specialize in parrot training and companionship.
#toucan #tocotoucan #toucansaspets

[@1hawaii21]

My heart goes out to you. There’s nothing worse than a sick child or a pet. Sending love and prayers.

[@Dog-lover1976]

Same I also have a Bird and I love him so much

[@Skyla-Kaii]

Your so sweet that filled my heart with sadness😭 and❤️joy😊

[@zai_thehumandewey9920]

@@lavlolrandoms - -_-

[@xpeachcream]

@@lavlolrandoms yknow that’s rude, I lost my little brother because of a sickness….

[@TravelBug189]

@@xpeachcream so sorry for your loss. Don’t listen to the person who said such nasty stuff

[@misty4757]

This is heartbreaking, I'm so sorry. I honestly didn't know Tucans tongue looked like that, I also didn't know Tucans could get diabetes. I learned a lot tonight. My heart goes out to you and him. He is so beautiful ❤❤

[@si3916]

same here !!! :((

[@i.cant.sleep.anymore]

It looks like a feather 🪶 wow

[@misty4757]

@@i.cant.sleep.anymore that was my thought exactly!

[@VeraDonna]

I was confused... She was talking about his tongue and holding something that looked like a *feather* from another bird... Also, I didn't know a tongue could break off like that. Poor birdie...

[@persephone2706]

@@VeraDonna Toucan tongues also grow back. But his might not because of interrupted circulation due to diabetes.

[@havennott7384]

I love how even when he doesnt feel good he still talks to them and trys perking up for them to cheer them up, hes truly a good fruit loop and a amazing bird

[@spiritmatter1553]

They love him and they’re fighting for him. He returns their love by fighting to live, eating, drinking and being affectionate.

[@ToukiTheToucan]

Touki broke his tongue off too in September. (He is a healthy, 2.5 year old). He was playing around with his toys and was really rambunctious. I ended up finding it on the carpet next to his play stand. I freaked out also and started taking note per the growth. Now it’s February and his tongue is almost fully grown back, just about an inch left. Generally, the tongue is like hair and nails, it will grow back. Diabetes, however may take longer to grow back or delayed like all blood circulative issues or healing. 😔 We know how bad things must feel. I feel so helpless. I wish I could help you… I’m So sorry 😞 😭. Hang in there. Thank you for sharing your experience and keeping us updated, our thoughts and hearts are with you.

[@filiphabek271]

I didn't know that tongue can regrow.

[@skykrasher4475]

Oh thank god, I was afraid his tongue was gone for good.

[@juliemartin9658]

This makes me happy. I wondered if there was a chance the tongue could grow back. I cant watch this video, as soon as I turned it on a few days ago, I quickly turned it off. I could feel her pain and have been wondering for days what happened. I sure hope Rocco heals and with all of the good vibes we send his way, maybe he can make a full recovery! In my prayers and thoughts, for sure.

[@IntrepidFraidyCat]

I was too afraid to watch the video and decided to read the comments to gauge the situation. I had no idea their tongues could break off, let alone grow back. Your comment was very informative, thanks.

[@rufflesal]

What a relief!

[@persephone2706]

A switch to an omnivore diet has nearly solved a diabetic issue my friend had with her toucan. I just asked her if she could tell me more about it and how she figured it out. I know she had that device that reads the glucose levels though too.

[@SobrietyandSolace]

Basically go as keto as you can with a bird. It's common sense to not make their diet like 90% fructose/glucose

[@giselle_kvm]

@@SobrietyandSolace yeah, these birds don't only eat fruits in the wild. Toucans are known to eat other smaller animals occasionally

[@nebulabunny8633]

Makes sense, since toucans do prey on small animals

[@leannbridwell1853]

Poor little bird- he’s beautiful! Never heard of tongues breaking ! You’re a good toucan mommy !

[@abnerarias3188]

Jamie we are here for you!!! You have saved countless parrots and been an incredible steward of what you have endeavored into. I am praying for your family. I can only hope that you feel some peace in this tough process!! Thanks for being real with us! You have always been available to your following, and now know that we are here for you!!!

[@martinwagner7361]

Exactly, sending healing love to the poor bird.....😊😘❤

[@coralreef909]

I should point out that toucans are not Parrots. They are soft bills. They share similar habitats with parrots in South America

[@abnerarias3188]

@@coralreef909 Absolutely right!!!

[@jasminemartinez5645]

She is a drama queen

[@pamelaj.betz-baron2420]

@@coralreef909 Jamie and co. know that Toucans are not parrots.

[@RevansNightmare]

My type 1 son feels this on so many levels. Just something to think about diabetes is tough to get it right in humans so it is going to be extremely difficult in a pet where monitoring the food is even more difficult. Best of luck to you and I hope you are able to figure out something to help him. I know it’s strange but maybe you can get a monitor like Dexcom to keep an eye on his blood sugar. My kid asked why you could just use a pump like he has.

[@peterzimmerman1114]

I know a vet with a diabetic parrot had a small hand device that he used to measure the glucose in in the "poop". instead of drawing blood.

[@mansageekz7938]

@@peterzimmerman1114 the device malfunctioned that's why they have to draw blood

[@jwhen911]

I completely agree being a type 1 diabetic myself. I feel sorry for this toucan since as a adult it is tough to manage. Stay strong to all diabetics both human and animals

[@jenniferphillips4765]

@@jwhen911 I am too type 1 diabetic.

[@littlemidwestrebornsdolls]

My own mother is a type 1 diabetic. She is 80 now and it has caused her to go blind, lose some kidney function, and it gave her a heart attack. She did everything to take the best care of herself. My late husband was also a type 1. It is a horrible illness.

[@marjake3147]

Jamie, I'm going to make a crazy suggestion- actually two crazy suggestions. The first one is call the San Diego Zoo and ask them about this; you have to know they have more experience dealing with Toucans than WSU and they may have some insight that isn't printed in any book. I'm not taking anything away from WSU-I'm sure they are doing everything they know how to do. The second suggestion I have and this is the really crazy one is getting him a sun lamp. I've been thinking about him since your first post about this, and I started thinking about what would his normal natural environment be. Since his species is native to the tropics I tried to think what is different about his environment where you live compared to where he naturally would live. Speaking as someone who lives in Minnesota, I know that Sandpoint Idaho is pretty far north which means that not only is there less hours of sunlight but it's also much less intense. We humans need sunlight in order for our system to create vitamin D, and maybe - just maybe - there is something about being in the intense sun that helps these birds metabolize their food so they don't get diabetes? Just from watching your videos about this it seems that he was doing a little bit better at home where he is exposed to some sunlight, where at the vet hospital he's getting none (I'm assuming)? I'm going to go ahead and reach out to the U of Minnesota and see if anyone there has any ideas. If I find anything out I'll pass it along. Much love to you all as you work through this❤️

[@Maspets]

It's not a revelation that birds benefit from sun. Rocko had an outdoor enclosure.

[@bkm2797]

This is so hard, and we are sending healing energy to Rocko and you. Maybe it's impossible for Rocko to be a vegetarian, and it's time to bring on the pinkies, the softmeal worms and the like. Just think when hummingbirds get the opportunity to catch natts they feed with gusto, and Toco's seem to need meat. Of course I'm just desperately trying to help, and hoping it's something this simple to bring his blood sugar back into normal range, so if the vet hasn't tried, maybe she should. Please take care Jamie, and keep us in the loop if it's not too much to ask.

[@sc8307]

I agree. I've read that toucans are omnivores and eat eggs, lizards, bugs and other small birds. Maybe he needs the protein to balance out the sugar from the fruit?

[@jonathandefoy6376]

@like bro hey buddy screw off...

[@dragonzrule7530]

@like bro will you not

[@caseytrenholm879]

​@like bro don't act like that.

[@lamoinette23]

Sadly, if they're omnivorous, he needs to eat some meat or insects. Fruit contains a lot of sugar.. it doesn't matter if it's fruit or candy, sugar is sugar. I worked with elephants for a while, they were being given a diet high in sugars and low in grass or forage. They were too fat and some were probably headed for diabetes. I sincerely hope they're able to manage his care. He's beautiful. 🙏❤️

[@deliriumnights]

I live in Brazil and near a forest where some of these toucans live in, there aren't many fruit trees there, so they must eat other animals' eggs and small animals often, and I think this is important to their nutrition I'm praying for your situation, and hope everything turns out better🙏

[@mindycotton875]

Don’t blame yourself Jamie, you definitely hold yourself to perfection and it’s not possible to be perfect 100% of the time. Give yourself some grace, girl! You are doing amazing.

[@bennitori4]

It's kind of crazy to see someone on the cutting edge of science like this. I've never been faced with the idea of "we don't know what to do because there is no science for this." The idea that your own experience giving you evidence that the current science is wrong (and that experience possibly becoming evidence for future science) is simply crazy to me. I guess the silver lining here is that Roco's experience is helping pave the way for our understanding of this species as a whole. But that doesn't make watching Roco struggle any easier. Thank you for working so hard to help him, and all other animals like him.

[@flyawaysoul9152]

The diet aspect of this is really interesting. As someone with pre diabetes, my DR put me on a high protein diet when I was really young because protein does a lot to help stabilize blood sugar spikes and prevent hard dips.

[@coredadventure1]

My mom heard from this lady we know it's a Chinese herbalist said put some cinnamon in her smoothies or however to ingest and it instantly cured her prediabetes. I mean instantly that stuff is amazing for diabetes

[@pamelamorris3148]

Yes, Rocco needed to have some protein introduced to his diet. I was shocked to hear them say they were giving him a bunch of fruit to eat when that all turns into straight sugar & raises the blood suger.

[@ktpuss]

Really sad for Rocko, he seems such a sweetheart & I guess there’s a bunch of factors that can lead to the diabetes and by then it’s too late to reverse things. It’s admirable what you’re doing and trying to work things out for him. I kept wondering what the vet said about his tongue and how that’ll affect him now. Diabetes is pretty complex we’ve been suffering it here with an animal and my partner so I feel your frustration! I’m saying prayers and rooting for you & Rocko all the way from the U.K. xx

[@eileendove23]

:((((://///

[@persephone2706]

I'm sorry you're going through that. It happened to me too, my black labrador Sophie. She got diagnosed with diabetes. Daily injections. And about a week later, her pancreas just shut down... There was nothing we could do anymore. We had to put her down. This was almost a year ago and still... Writing these makes me break down. If there was anything my family could have done for her, we would have. She had two knee replacements, both cost $10,000 each. She was only 9 years old. I would have given her 10 years off my own life in a heartbeat. It feels so wrong without her here... And I don't think we'll ever get another dog. It's just never going to feel right or okay. I've dealt with a lot of animals in my life. We have horses, goats, cats, cows... But Sophie was our first and only dog. She was incredible. I'm sorry for rambling on. I hope that you and your animal are doing good and continue to do good... I hope that things get easier for you both and that you have tons of years left with eachother.

[@claireharris6297]

Absolutely heartbreaking watching this, thank god Rocco has been blessed with you guys & preying that the vet team can stabilise you’re lovely boy! Sending you all so much love 💕

[@mariamardon4084]

Poor guy, I'm so sorry you're going through this trauma with him. Sending hugs to you all.

[@melissamonge4461]

This is heartbreaking and you’re amazing for how much you’re fighting for him. Without a doubt you’ve taken care of him all his life to the best of your ability and your knowledge. I live in Costa Rica, where I can easily see toucans in the wild (and photograph them!) so it’s a bit hard for me to wrap my head around having them as pets. I appreciate your sentiment in discouraging toucans as pets of there isn’t enough information to provide them with the optimal care they need. As far as protein goes, while we don’t have tocos here, the species we do have are known for eating other birds, especially from other birds’ nest. I wish you, your family and Rocko the best through these hard times.

[@wonderwend1]

Oh Jaimie 🧡🧡 In humans, when they get an infection of any kind their blood sugars go all over the place. I hope they can get on top of this for you all soon. 🧡

[@The-Grateful-Hippie]

In humans too inflammation and water retention ( weight gain) are also related. Lower weight/ lower inflammation = happier Rocco. That sounds about right. I pray your medical team sorts this all out.

[@wonderwend1]

@@The-Grateful-Hippie yes, and a bird's weight shouldn't go up and down so drastically unless its fluid that's being lost and gained through 3rd space shifting.

[@violetsb7000]

I hope for a fast recovery and if there’s anyone that could help Roco through this it’s your wonderful family! He’s been fighting very hard for you, the will to live is one of the most important for a good recovery(IMO) so I believe in him and you guys!

[@mspears_bobobuddytheseniorcat]

This is so horrifyingly heartbreaking beyond! The only good thing is that he really seems to be adapting incredibly well without his tongue. I’m praying for sweet Rocco’s diabetic issues to resolve and praying for you guys as you deal with all of this! ❤️💛💙

[@tinydinoflock]

Oh man Jamie. I’m so sorry 💜 I know you do absolutely everything for your birds and always strive to give them the best.

[@jennigthatonecrazydoglady8100]

My heart goes out to you and Rocko. I hope you guys are able to figure out things quickly. In the meantime, he’s got the best mama in the world who has fought hard to give him the best resources available, and most importantly, he’s so so loved.

[@breadfruitproductions486]

This is so horrible for you but oddly comforting to someone like me to witness someone so expert and experienced with her animals upset, confused, freaking out, making 'dumb' moves just like I do when my pets are ill. I was just discussing my concerns with my son about taking my kind of difficult dog to the vet and how I KNOW my energy and nerves affect him and maybe make the whole situation worse and that I struggle to find a way to control my emotions in those tough situations. Our animals... when they are your heart it seems impossible to be as tough as we need to be.

[@caleottestark6998]

It’s always so hard when there is not enough research behind care and treatment in birds. My Umbrella Cockatoo Kiwi loves watching your videos with me, and even she was very sad with me watching what you all have gone through. Our hearts go out to you, and your flock both feathered and unfeathered.

[@deborahjones6066]

So very sad. I cried & cried. I know how much you love and care about your bird children..

[@nataliegraham9552]

I'm holding you and your family close in my heart as you make this journey with Rocko. Please allow yourself a good dose of grace with everything going on, Jaime... You and Dave are such conscientious, loving caretakers for all of your flock and it is always crystal clear you would do anything for them, as witnessed by Rocko's course of care. You always do the very best you know how to do, but I can't remember the number of times you talked about the very slim body of knowledge for Toucan care, even before Rocko became sick. You are doing so much, even in the middle of this heartbreak, by sharing your journey and what you are learning with your community of followers. I hope you, Dave, and Capri feel the support coming your way from all of us and that it helps to comfort you. Hugs and support from here in Summerville, South Carolina. 💞

[@clabea7772]

I had a diabetic cockatiel I gave insulin shots every day for 4 years…she was really sick but she overcame her type 1 diabetes The avian vet that helped us said that birds are a species that can do that overcome diabetes So hopefully this will be the case for him too Also there is always a cause in her case it was hormonal and after the diabetes went away we treated her hormonally

[@jerryray3892]

Diabetes doesn’t just go away

[@ris8065]

I’m not sure it was type 1 if she overcame it...type 1 is a genetic thing that is permanent. There’s no getting over it or curing it, it’s lifelong.

[@keeper6458]

@@ris8065 true. It had to of been type 2

[@leilanipunanimania6815]

@@ris8065 there’s no such thing as genetic technically and we know this from bio kinetic research. In other words we can re-program our own DNA and sometimes the DNA of other creatures within a certain energetic range.

[@melissajarvis4829]

That's great! My cat is in remission, but it can come back any time.

[@donnacarr3782]

I’m crying during this video. Please God make Rocco better 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@toddbob55]

Such a sweetheart of an Animal god bless him i hope things go well !!!

[@Xx_Floraa]

Praying for Roco!Hoping he lives a long life!

[@Doingood2]

I'm watching this after you know, Rocko passed away and I just want everyone who might have a bird that when they pass it takes a few seconds but days, weeks, or months to get over the time that the passed. But the fun, good times outnumber the time they pass. So, remember this when they pass which I hope will be in a long time. (depending on their age and lifespan) Rocko is the cutest toucan that I've ever seen..💌

[@glenwoofit]

This is tough to watch. I wish you and Rocco all the best.

[@Teenywing]

This is my FIRST EVER KZbin donation. I’m sorry it’s not big but I’d love to send you a hug. (And a hug for the humans too)

[@frostyminded]

WoW! WSU!!!! So glad I found you guys, you're like 20 minutes away! I'm so sorry about Rocko, seeing you upset makes me cry with you. I can tell you feel the responsibility of of failing your beautiful bird. And it is just not the case. The diet is not your fault, you are doing your best with the information and experience available, you're obviously pouring resources into helping Rocko, WSU is so expensive. Especially the exotic department. I'll be sending positive thoughts your way!

[@LivingLifewithSerenity]

When my elderly pug is sick, it breaks my heart. I’m so sorry little buddy!

[@badluck5006]

Praying for Rocko this video was hard to watch but I'm so happy they were able to atleast get his blood sugars down to readable numbers that is very encouraging and thanks for allowing you to show your journey with Rocko's progress Rocko is extremely blessed to have you and dave be good parents to him praying also for you and your family to get through all this I myself is a diabetic so I know some of the horrors it can cause keep us posted and Rocko is strong he will make it through

[@l.kelshan6300]

I am hoping your sweetie gets much much healthier! I am so sad that this is what you are dealing with! I am a human with type 2 diabetes...so, I really really feel for your sweetpea! I wish that you and your family will have him so much much longer than than his vet's have told you!!! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@PeachesNPixels]

I will pray for Rocco EVERYDAY! Just be there with him at all times to give him hope. You are being wonderful through this, you guys are amazing❤️

[@Tristanrgreene11]

Broke my heart I could feel his pain but trying to almost comfort you guys in a sweet way. The power of animals is a gift and I can see you know that so well and the fact that we love these animals is so important and it’s the most reciprocal love I think you can experience in life. Ty

[@Riccothegreenpiedirn]

This was so difficult to watch, but very important that you shared this. I’m truly sorry you are having to go through this, my heart goes out to you. Sending you love and prayers during this difficult time.🙏❤️

[@susanmartin3762]

Aawwww he was so sweet letting you hug him😥 he is just sitting there listening to you guys

[@embutterfly7589]

Oh my, this was hard to watch and every time you broke down I cried with you 😢 Rocko's little face looking at you when you were at the vets, he knows you love him and are trying to help him 💛 thankyou for sharing such an unbelievably difficult time with us, it can't be easy for any of you right now. Sending love, prayers and positive thoughts and virtual hugs to you all and hoping you get some good news really soon 🙏💛🤗

[@thatone7793]

This is an emotional rollercoaster I was not prepared for. In November 2020, my cat Cassie was diagnosed with diabetes. $400+ a month care bought me time with her until October 2021. It was expensive and we struggled with the ups and downs. The day Cassie left me was the best day I could have ever given her outside of when I adopted her. It's so hard for us and hurts to know how little time we can have with our furry, feathered, and scaled friends. Remember, you are doing everything you can for this little guy. Don't think about the quantity of days you have together. Instead, strive for quality. And when that terrible day comes, be at peace that you gave all your love to a creature who loved you back. It will hurt every day, but it's supposed to. Our critters have to take a part of our souls when they go so that we may finally be whole again when we meet them on the other side of that rainbow bridge. We sacrifice our souls so that they won't be lonely while they wait for us. The pain we feel until then will always be worth it in the end.

[@lightfollower5717]

😪 heart breaking. Since my last bird died I promised I would never buy another exotic bird and I haven't. There are herbs and things in the wild for their life, health and maintenance we can't give them. No more for me. I hope your bird recovers . ❤

[@pamelaj.betz-baron2420]

((HUGS))

[@marinak.2237]

I'm so sorry for your loss. ❤️. You are a wonderful pet parent. Hugs.

[@savitahedau2221]

We all have faith that Rocco will be all right.... Take care... Try to be calm All is well ❤️

[@zai_thehumandewey9920]

Aman 🙏

[@benicio1967]

This is heartbreaking. I really feel the struggle and stress. We want our pets to feel good and be really content. I hate that you have all been through so much. I know it’s really very upsetting. He’s such a sweet little fella. You’re really a good mama. 🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@briannamitchell2969]

I sobbed this entire video and I learned so much. I’m thinking of you and praying that Rocko is feeling playful again very very soon 💕

[@dprrescue]

No one could have done better. He is grateful.

[@eg9453]

Guys, you've helped us and our bids in so many ways! I wish we could do something for you and Rocko. We are with you and our prayers go out for Rocko. Hope for the best !

[@tinkerbelltheredhead]

Poor baby. 😢 Sending you love and healing vibes. God bless him and your family.

[@madisonoquendo5919]

prayers for your little boy 💙💙

[@Jason-pl7yy]

So sorry to hear and will be following Rocko's story as it progresses. Diabetes is hard enough to figure out with humans (can't imagine trying to figure it out with birds). My initial thoughts are (and this is only my hypothesis after watching a lot of Brock's channel) that it may have more to do with the way we keep them in captivity. In the wild they are very active, and we just can't replicate the amount of exercise they need to burn off those glucose spikes. Over time they develop a resistance to insulin, and it could be very similar to the way it works in humans. In captivity we feed them a lot of fruits (which naturally contain sugars) and not enough protein (which has been documented to lower and improve glucose control in humans). What I'm trying to say is that I don't think there's anything Jamie did wrong personally, and this may be just an unavoidable pitfall when caring for toucans long term. Rocko's definitely in good hands and I think will get the best quality of life possible under her care. Want to emphasize one other thing Jamie says in this video - to anyone out there thinking about buying a Toucan please don't. These birds were never meant to be kept in captivity and belong in the wild. Unless you own a zoo or some other type of large aviary these birds are best left wild. They require an extreme amount of care and if you truly love them, it's really best just to admire them from afar. Good luck and we'll all be pulling for Rocko's speedy recovery!

[@kB5TVP]

Sweet baby :( I'm sending prayers and love for a quick recovery. I hate when my fur babies are sick! ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@johnjay6370]

Thanks for sharing!!! Wishing for the best outcome!!! I can tell how much you love him and He knows it!!! :)

[@ingridgustavsson3012]

Can i just say how amazing you are. Your husband seems just as nice. I wish with all my heart i had a Sister or friend or even A Neighbor like you. I have a Double Yellow head named Gabby. He turned 30 this year. I received Gabby at 6 months old . He was bottle fed and he bonded with me right away. Im so so worried about what will happen to him when i die. Thank you for sharing your story. Your love and dedication is commendable.

[@tiffanythompson6178]

If he was sick when you first took him to the vet but didn't know it that could explain the weird ups and downs with his sugar and weight. I am in the medical field with people and when people are sick it can cause their sugar to do crazy things as well. I hope that he starts making better strides in his glucose journey once his sickness is taken care of with the antibiotics.

[@sy01mamabear83]

I'm so sorry for all that you guys are going with Rocko boy. Oh my heavens! Sweet boy. Toucans are so so special. He has the best family to support him. We are sending you all the biggest heap of prayers.

[@tammy6678]

My heart melts for you...so sad...but I know you and Dave has give him the best...yall are awesome

[@mercyreign969]

Thank you for not giving up on him- you are doing such wonderful things for crazy cans everywhere. Love to you girlie.

[@ltitley1]

Pellets and processed foods caused diabetes and seizures in my animals. Just like in humans, processed foods cause cancer, diabetes, and all sorts of diseases. High fat (good saturated fats) for all creatures is the best. Breast milk is almost all fat and we all know this is the best a baby can have. Processed pellets are high in carbs and carbs are sugar, therefore cause diabetes.

[@Maspets]

They do not.

[@Hx3ney]

I just want to say ... if there's any young people reading please please consider going into veterinarian medicine. I recently lost my sweet angel and I'm sure it's because her Dr's were too busy to care for her. We were made to wait weeks for her visits. There were mistakes made and she paid for it with her life. I thought the vet shortage was just in my area because of a population boom but apparently it's everywhere. My heart hurts for you 💔 praying for your family

[@jennsinkona]

Praying Rocko gets through this and virtual hugs to you guys💚

[@JonathanFosdickNano]

I’m praying he gets better and lives a long life

[@MultiWhit3]

I love and have so much more respect then ever before because you said "we should not" have these birds in captivity. You hold so much influence and I pray this extends and people really hear you. This is a beautiful bird with a beautiful life but unfortunately they don't all get this kind of love and attention. From the bottom on my heart thank you ♡ I'm keeping you and your baby in prayers 🙏

[@marykelto2158]

I am praying that all is going to be well. I’m wondering if maybe they find that 200-400 are incorrect parameters for toucans blood sugar, since so much is unknown about them. Thank you for being so real. You are doing a great job!

[@symp_vaeh]

that sneeze is the cutest thing ever

[@Ldi2218]

so sorry to hear this - Sennding love 💕 and prayers

[@melerneaneff1703]

Praying for Rockos full recovery. All the best. God, please heal this beautiful boy. Stay strong.

[@beth8095]

Thank You SO MUCH, for allowing us in this journey! You are doing everything right! And I have to say that you ARE a great person that loves the pets My McCaw used to sneeze when he was stressed God Bless

[@pixelmator]

I feel so sad for both of you and him. Hope something can be done, such a beautiful bird.

[@Fluffaloo]

Poor Rocko! I'm so sorry you are going through this. I don't know if this helps at all but I remember reading a post from Jason Crean not too long ago mentioning that it is possible that the low iron pellet ingredients (such as wheat flour) could be contributing to the increasing cases of diabetes in toucans, rather than it being solely the sugar percentage itself within the fruit. I agree with you in the fact toucans should not be as prevalent in the pet trade as they are; it is best for them to stay in the wild where they can get the right climate and nutrition. Get better Rocko

[@truedatdatdatdat]

*everyone PRAY for rocko!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! prayers move mountains! DEAR FATHER, PLEASE IMMEDIATELY RELIEVE ROCKO FROM ANY DISCOMFORT HE HAS BY GETTING HIS DIABETES UNDER CONTROL. lord, I pray the vet can figure out the right dose of medicine & pray rocko beats the struggle of the lows & gets stable. please keep Jamie positive , hopeful & faithful, let her know this is not her fault & that she shouldn't blame herself. please send your angels to rocko & bless him with the blood of Jesus & their family as well. I pray the divine light comforts rocko & pulls him through this small battle. through your son, Jesus Christ, amen!*

[@lialalee]

With the breathing and sneezing getting worse and those high numbers I wonder if he went into diabetic ketoacidosis. I went into it at the start of the year and one of my main Issues was extremely heavy breathing and coughing as my body was trying to get rid of the carbon and acid build-up.

[@marynywarriormomof1248]

So so sorry ...Your family love your birds so much, it breaks my heart to see you so sad, missing your little boy who is so precious...God bless you and comfort you!

[@martinhalbert5428]

Has no one questioned the role of pellets in their diet? My guess is that pellets for toucans are playing a similar role to what happens with dogs given dry kibble and the link to diabetes. Going by the ingredients in the Mazuri pellets..I don’t feel they’re very toucan appropriate.

[@parisinthe30sx]

Exactly what I was thinking. This diet probably contributed to his diabetes

[@maniacmushroom3470]

Toucans need fresh fruit

[@martinhalbert5428]

@@maniacmushroom3470 I’m not sure if you meant to reply to me? I know they need fresh fruits..which I’m sure was being provided but I don’t think it was negating the impact of the pellets potentially 🤷🏼

[@jolenechase4210]

@@martinhalbert5428 the main issue with many captive toucans is the sugar content in fruits available from the grocery store vs the fruit available in the wild. Most fruit that is produced for human consumption has been crossbreed and hybridized for people to eat. The wild fruit toucans would eat in the wild are not nearly as high in sugar.

[@amberpixie8550]

Toucans eat fish as well not just fruit

[@lory69]

I’m so sorry your baby and you are going through this. I had a Quaker for 30 of his 38 years and he lost his leg to a tumor. He still was happy and lived 5 more years. God bless you.

[@VTSherr]

I can't even watch this, Jamie. Sorry. I just hope my prayers and good vibes reach you and Rocko at this time. I'm praying for you, Rocko! Please get better!!

[@quiltybee]

Hugs. Rocco fighting so good. What a nightmare.

[@WonderfulWorldofAwesomeness]

We are always finding out that the information we were given, that we thought we were doing the best for our birds with, was actually not accurate. For instance - Come to find out that the pellets only diet that people have been pushing for the past few years is wrong, and that most species of birds actually DO need some seeds and a variety of food in their diets (and that the manufacturing companies of those pellets were the ones pushing those as a “complete” diet. Wrong.) So the pellet only diet started causing as many health problems as the seed only diet that people had their birds on in the 70s and 80s. I guess the problem almost always comes down to an extreme or “only” diet. We are all doing the best that we can by these exotic animals who know best what to feed themselves in the wild. In any case, I’m sorry you’re going through this. I, for one, really appreciate you allowing us to go on this difficult journey with you as many of us will have to deal with similar issues with our exotic birds as well. Thank you

[@Camilla.x]

Oh no!!! I am SO sorry!! I feel so sad. This is horrible! Sweet little Rocko!❤️ I’m keeping my fingers crossed and I’m gonna wish the hardest that I can, that he can come home soon. Really hope you can figure out the right food and all. Lots of caring thoughts to you!!❤️😭

[@GraceT]

I’ve been thinking of you guys. Poor baby boy :( I’m glad he can still eat without his tongue. I agree with Dave that it looks like he can eat better without his tongue in the way. He’s even making clicking noises like he’s more comfortable.

[@josephrapp]

I am so sorry for you both..................you all gave him so much love. I hope he improves and can live happily.

[@MsGroovalicious]

I pray that he heals.

[@AmandaMyOfficeBooks]

Diabetes isn't fully understood in humans, let alone your Tucan. Sending you a huge virtual ((hug)). At least your Tucan knows you both provide a loving & caring home. 💖

[@TheChickwithguns]

Praying for you and your baby bird. Diabetes is rough. Take it one day at a time.

[@carolslapp4725]

I'm sooooo Sorry your all going through this It breaks my heart 💔😢 I pray everything works out And they can figure everything out 🙏🙏🙏❤

[@alfredritcher]

Praying for rocko and your whole family i understand what you are going through with other pet family members may god bless your family wow made me cry a little

[@idkwtf2makemyusername104]

I'm so sorry. I know the pain you all went thru with the last toucan. God bless him. Poor guy. I never heard of that. Hope they can help my dude out. God bless you all.

[@juliaarthur4781]

Look into the low iron pellets please. They are high in wheat flour and processed grains are known to cause issues.

[@pamelaj.betz-baron2420]

Do you have a link with that information? (I don't have a toucan, but am curious.)

[@juliaarthur4781]

@@pamelaj.betz-baron2420 It is information from Dr Jason Crean. He is an avian nutritionist amongst other things. His Facebook page is Avian Raw Whole Food Nutrition and the question was asked on there about diabetes in toucans. It is s private group though so, I'm not sure you can see posts without joining?

[@Maspets]

@@pamelaj.betz-baron2420 No they don't. They are just flapping their yap.

[@pamelaj.betz-baron2420]

@@Maspets Perhaps. That's partly why I asked for a source, so I could assess it myself.

[@ginnyoneil47]

Oh honey I'm soooooo sorry. Your such a great bird momma. Im praying for you and Rocco

[@phelpsuzan]

Thank you for being such a wonderful advocate for All Parrots, and teaching us that Not all Parrots can be properly cared for in capacity. #savenaturalhabitats

[@Jeipillow]

im super sad hopefully he recovers,that sounds soo painful :( hopefully he recovers. im pretty sad to see this my bird died of a sickness and hopefully. hopefully this beautiful bird lives

[@whats_herName]

I do think you would do well with Rocko on introducing more protein in his diet. Have them try it for a week while he's there.

[@SobrietyandSolace]

Exactly. Bird keto. Grapes are the worst for diabetics.

[@ravenskye6595]

I am so sorry; the pain is so incredible. Prayers for Rocko and family.

[@potatopeeler9728]

Thank you for providing such exceptional love and care to Rocko. Praying for Rocko’s health and well being 🧡💛💚

[@junebug8421]

I hate this for him!😥💔I'm so sorry that he is having to fight this battle! Praying for you, him and the family, stay strong and God bless!

[@sacorbitt]

Sending you love! A quote that really resonates in this situation is, "We do the best we can with the information we have. You can't feel guilt not acting "the best" because you didn't have the information you do today." Thank you for being so raw and honest, you will definitely be helping other toucans in captivity. Roco is lucky to have you, don't ever doubt that.

[@aliceschram1043]

Tu for your obvious dedication to this breed, all the best to you and Rocco