AS fears grow about the spread of bird flu, local animal therapist Adam Rogers, pictured right, will be taking stressed birds under his wing.

The 22-year-old, of Elmdale Road, Trowbridge, is advising bird owners on how to ease the fears birds may have if they are moved indoors. He practices TTouch, a type of massage for animals which he says can help relieve the stress and tension birds may feel if they are suddenly taken out of their usual environment.

At the moment there has been no official advice to take birds indoors in this part of the country but Mr Rogers said he knew a number of people who had already taken hens and aviary birds indoor as a precaution.

Mr Rogers said: "People have been confused and don't know what to do. On one side the word is bird flu is coming while the Government is saying don't worry. "But people care about their birds and want to do the best for them and some are deciding to move their birds indoors. It is a big step for the bird and the therapy can help them adjust."

The treatment originated in America and is believed to reduce stress and improve health in animals.

  • For more information visit www.animals-at-ease.co.uk or contact (07891) 240640.