can I test my duck for e-coli and salmonella at my local vet?

[The Duck Dad]

Hi, I was wondering could i get my ducklings tested for E-coli and salmonella at my vet? I could do a 20-30 quarantine for them, but I thought it would just be simpler to just get them tested. If you guys could let me know, that would be very kind. Thanks!

 

[Ratchnick]

@KaleIAm

 

[KaleIAm]

My ducks have had fecal tests done at my avian vet and my vet has announced, "no salmonella was seen!

They have never mentioned anything about E-coli that I can recall, and my understanding is that it is more complicated. I found this article that may clear things up.

http://www.birdsupplynh.com/vetafarm/EcoliMythsandMisunderstandings.pdf

I recommend calling your vet and asking if they will run the tests for you. Sometimes mine will let me just bring in the poop, other times they want my duck to come along.

My understanding is that there is a level of organisms, even undesirable ones, that are normal in waterfowl stool. And unless the bird is showing signs of illness veterinarians don't usually treat for infections.