Amputated small rear toe not improving

[4Shadow]

I was brought a couple of sad 'spent' laying hens 1 week ago from an auction. Both had wicked respiratory issues which seem to have been dealt with by LS-100 injections for both, over 5 days from the vet. (can hardly believe they made it - such rough shape)

The one bird Dana also had her toe caught underneath her cage during transport to the auction and cages piled on top of her

Her 'talon' appears to be gone and a small part of her toe - it is swollen and has black and/or scab on the end.

A couple of days ago I tried to pick off the scab and disinfect but was not overly successful - scab would not come off and I got the feeling that I was pulling off part of her toe (eeek).
She is still VERY sore on it, walks around much less than her friend, and usually tucks her affected leg up into her tummy. She is eating, but seems less than her friend Tillie. Much less exploring.
The vet said that the LS-100 antibiotic would help with any toe infection issues. Does her state (painful, thickened toe) sound like normal (non) progress for one week or should I treat further...? Thanks!

 

[BrattishTaz]

I love to hear stories of people adopting hens that others deem worthless. Old layers are guaranteed a comfortable retirement here. I figure it is the least I can do after years of providing eggs for my family.

It can take a while for a chicken injury to "look" normal again. You can try to soak it in warm water with epsom salt to make sure there is no debris in there. I use polysporin on my birds to prevent infection topically. The injected antibiotic should take care of any internal infection. The scab should fall off on its own when ready.

 

[4Shadow]

Thanks BT - and sounds like a good plan. May not be easy to execute (she's feisty when held!) but I will try.
I feel the very same about lovely girls like these. It's a privilege to provide them some comfort and freedom.
They cost 5 cents each

 

[mrkpero]

I don't know if this would help your chicken or not, but we just acquired a dumped hen that had pretty bad feet and black scabs/sores on the bottoms of her toes and I have been applying bag balm each night and her feet have really improved. Good luck to you!

 

[welasharon]

I second the warm water epsom salts soak. You will be amazed at how much it will help. I bring them in at night and keep the kitchen lights low while I soak their feet.
sharon