Animal rights groups trying to rescue exotic birds

TROY, Ohio -- The Miami Valley Bird Club has saved 10 of nearly 50 birds who,

were left to starve in a Troy home.  The organization is now trying to save the rest

of them.   However, the man who owns the home, and the birds, said his birds were

stolen.   Ten of the  birds are safe  at the Dayton South Veterinary Clinic,  while the

rest may be starving in the home.  Sources say there are dead birds everywhere.

Local veterinarian Daniel Brauer, of Dayton South Veterinary Clinic, said this is

the “most horrific” display of animal cruelty he’s seen.  Brauer,  said the home’s

owner, Doug Ratcliff gave him permission to remove  10 of the exotic birds from

his home that were starving and in need of medical treatment.  The bird club said

someone tipped them off to the conditions.  Doug Ratcliff, the owner, apparently

gave the group permission to feed the birds and take  10 that needed special

medical attention.  News Center 7 talked with Ratcliff on the phone and he said

the birds were stolen and he only told the club that they could do blood work.

However, the group provided a copy of a signed form, where Ratcliff agreed

to relinquish ownership. “Now, he has put a stop on everything, and they

are no longer allowed to go in and feed, clean or water,” Brauer said.

Steve WilsonWHIO Radio - info source WHIO TV /Dayton Daily News