You are viewing a single comment's thread from:

RE: Betsy in Rehab

in #chickens6 years ago

She might not be injured at all. You can feel up and down her legs, you should feel a break or she'll flinch. I've had chickens do this, develop a walking problem (suddenly). I have one right now in isolation (for her protection form getting picked on, and no-stress eating). They have all recovered after a week or three. Don't give up on her. Give her lots of special food - greens, variety, vitamins.

Sort:  

Oh thank you for your comment! I don't feel any breaks and she can push my hand away with the bottom of her claw. I will certainly give her more time, and am so happy to know this you've seen them recover. I've been feeding her sunflower seeds and some fruit, but will step up the food tomorrow. She got some foraging time twice today too. Tomorrow I think I will give her some time in a larger enclosure, maybe 3 by 3, on the ground and in the sun. I'm mostly worried about keeping the others away from her, but nearby to reduce stress. Does this sound like a good plan?

That is exactly what I do. Her own space, but with the others around. I also give them boiled eggs and livestock electrolytes (stress-aid) in their water. I've never looked up what it is, maybe a vitamin deficiency? I just know that one day they can't use their legs, and after some care, they come back. They always have a good appetite (so not "illness"), just, no legs. Happened to three of my hens, I think. Save Betsy!

Thank you so much. Maybe I will try a tad of rescue remedy in her water today, and cook up some eggs for all of them. I sure have enough this month! Do you mind if I keep consulting you here?

Of course.