Bathing meat chickens

[henjoy]

My granddaughter is raising meat chickens for the fair this year for the first time. Though we have been diligent about keeping their bedding and coop clean, they still are a bit dingy on their breast area and tail feathers. I know that these birds are quite fragile and I am wondering how she can clean them for exhibition at the fair. Any ideas?? Thanks so much.

 

[Engteacher]

Here's a nice How-To

http://www.wikihow.com/Wash-a-Chicken

We were able to find a former 4-H person, now a veterinary technician, who came over and gave us a hands-on tutorial. We found her though our county 4-H extension office. They were very helpful.

 

[Hens_And_Chicks]

Keep the water very lukewarm - too warm/hot will make their feathers fall out - not good.

Also, you can buy that "bluing" stuff in the laundry section and add a couple drops to the final rinse - do not put directly on your chickens - it dyes them blue and you cannot wash it out. (Go ahead - laugh now and ask me how I know).

You could start bluing them every day - it really whitens them up a lot. Also, use a very mild soap like baby shampoo and make sure you rinse them well.

 

[henjoy]

I really appreciate the info. I'll CAREFULLY try bathing our fair birds. Thanks again!!

 

[scubaforlife]

If you can get the "raising fancy poultry" 4H book, that has a section on bathing.