Brahma lost feathers in dog attack. How to handle cold winter?

[Mountain lady J]

My 8-month old Brahma pullet was attacked by a friend's dog. There aren't any visible injuries but we've brought her inside in case of shock or internal damage. She lost a ton of feathers on her back and side - she's down to bare skin in those areas.

My question, assuming she survives the next couple of days, is how do I manage a partially naked chicken through the montana winter? We regularly get sub zero temps for days. Do I need supplemental heat for her? Do I need to keep her inside on cold nights? We have 4 other brahma girls in the coop, will they keep her warm enough?

Thanks for your advice!

 

[Debbie292d]

Poor thing!

Hopefully, she's all right. It's best if they can be returned to their flock asap. I'd leave her with them but watch for pecking as the others might see that as edible. I'd give her/them increased protein for the next few weeks to promote feather growth. Scrambled eggs a couple times a week is good extra protein, as is tuna in water.

If you see any pecking, I'd get some Blu-Kote spray for her.

If it gets super cold before she's got feathers, you might want to see about getting a flat panel heater, like a Cozy Coop. Those are just 200 watts and only give off warmth, not hot, and shut off if tipped over. She could cuddle up to that if she gets chilled.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

My 8-month old Brahma pullet was attacked by a friend's dog. There aren't any visible injuries but we've brought her inside in case of shock or internal damage. She lost a ton of feathers on her back and side - she's down to bare skin in those areas.

My question, assuming she survives the next couple of days, is how do I manage a partially naked chicken through the montana winter? We regularly get sub zero temps for days. Do I need supplemental heat for her? Do I need to keep her inside on cold nights? We have 4 other brahma girls in the coop, will they keep her warm enough?

Thanks for your advice!

Welcome To BYC

Can you please post photos of the pullet and her injuries?

Work on getting her through shock, sugar water or electrolyte are good to give.

If feathers are completely ripped out, she will begin to feather back in, but if she's really bare, then you can put a chicken saddle on her. Some folks make one out of Polar Fleece or you can order them online through amazon or etsy.