Petco will not offer large birds such as African grey parrots, cockatoos and macaws once those birds in stock at the time of the agreement are sold. The company will continue to work with its shelter partners to promote the adoption of homeless birds of all sizes; work with PETA to find accredited bird rescue groups for its Think Adoption First in-store adoption program; and recommend and promote flight cages for all birds.

In return, PETA ended its high-profile campaign against the company, which included a boycott, protests at Petco stores and a resolution condemning the sale of animals. The animal rights group also took down its anti-Petco Web site (www.petcocruelty.com), removed all “PetNo” references from all sites affiliated with the organization, and withdrew support of the use of the “PetNo” logo by other groups.

“We welcome the opportunity to work with PETA as we announce ending the sale of large birds as one of several progressive steps we are taking in our industry-leading efforts,” said Bruce C. Hall, Petco’s president and chief operating officer. “We recognize that most of our bird customers are what we would call ‘beginning hobbyists.’ Large birds are not necessarily appropriate for these individuals due to their long lifespan, size and care requirements.”

“We believe that all birds should have the freedom to fly and be with others of their own kind, but large birds are exceptionally hard hit by captivity, and we commend Petco for deciding to help discourage their lifetime confinement,” said Ingrid Newkirk, president of PETA. “We hope other responsible retailers follow Petco’s lead in this regard.”

PETA had attacked Petco since January 2003 for the alleged mishandling of pets for sale, using a play on the company’s slogan—“where the pets die”—on the anti-Petco Web site as well as billboards. [June 2005 PET AGE]