My wife and three kids just traveled out of state for an sudden family suicide on my wife's side. We left immediately to support my wife's parents and family.
My concern is my 9 year old daughter. She has two cockatiels and a green cheek conure that mean the absolute world to her. She adores all birds. They are in a large cage with a 500 mL water bowl. Birds being birds, they perch on the bowl and crap in it. All day. It needs constant water changes.
Since we had to leave on such short notice, I wasn't able to purchase any more sanitary water options. I supported my wife and family for 5 days now. The viewing is today but the funeral hasn't yet been scheduled as we are waiting on the deceased children to confirm their travel arrangements from across the country. I was asked to help carry the casket
Multiple sources informed me the birds are highly unlikely to survive, mostly due to bacterial infection from the contaminated water. We do not have anyone near our home to help with the birds.
As a father, the absolute last thing I want to do is see my daughter suffer (and neglect the birds as well). She would be devastated and heartbroken and I would as well for her.
Do I:
Stay and hope for the best for the birds
Explain the situation, which will devastate and likely anger the large family, but take care of my daughter and leave now while my wife stays behind.
My wife would be able to travel back home with a family member.