My Bubba is dying from PDD. He's a Severe MaCaw.
After 20 years of his friendship I am totally devastated and emotionally a wreck. I'm a man and I can't even go out in public right now ...Cause I break down crying. I'm crying right now. There is no cure. At this point I am his life support. I have to hand feed him. They don't know how this virus is spread or how long it takes to show up. It's real mystery. My avian vet is one of the best in the country. She didn't like it that I can't bring myself to put him down. I understand her point but I love him so much I just can't do that.
Got to stop posting ...crying too much right now.
= new reply since forum marked as read
He should have been with you for many many more years. 
I am sure your veterinarian is aware that some success has been achieved using high doses of anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., steroids)
Not trying to second guess them, but infectious disease epidemiology is my field and I was vaguely aware of this newly discovered avian bornavirus
For many years PDD was considered terminal and the only treatment provided was supportive care. Easily digestible food was provided so as to maximize the amount of nutrients that could be absorbed by the sick bird. Supportive care also involved treating secondary GI infections and maintaining a high level of hygiene to try to prevent secondary infections.
In the past several years, more and more avian veterinarians have reported success in the treatment of PDD by using high doses of powerful anti-inflammatory drugs. These drugs are thought to work by reducing the amount of inflammatory nerve damage that occurs as PDD progresses. Several birds with PDD confirmed by tissue biopsies have survived many months and in some cases several years with this treatment. While this treatment option holds hope for many birds, keep in mind that no scientific studies have confirmed how useful this treatment is, and as such success is considered anecdotal as it is not proven scientifically.
I can very much appreciate your feelings. 
to your best bud....
He is your best friend, but he is also your little boy, your child. Of course you are upset, and experiencing anticipatory grief while also tending to him.
In my younger days I worked as a pediatric play therapist at a large children's' hospital. One of my rotations was spending a year on the oncology wing as well as working with children with cystic fibrosis--becoming very close to them and getting to know their parents very well. I will go so far as to say you are going through something very similar to what many of those parents went through, while supporting their child in all the ways that they could; without, of course, that last added option.
Birds are wonderful, special creatures. Parrots can be extraordinary. You WILL get through this. There are many online pet support sites that help people who are going through what you are experiencing; and also getting through the quandary of considering that final possible decision.
Our furry & feathered friends fill our lives with so much joy & love.
Were you able to be with him at the time of his passing?
