Everyone please be aware, just because someone is NPIP does not mean their birds are healthy. Please do not take that as a guarantee their birds are free from health problems though I believe most birds are healthy that come to Chickenstock.
Look over birds carefully. NPIP does not guarantee that these birds are free of internal or external parasites or anything like upper respiratory viruses. If the birds are lackluster or have droopy eyes or mucous coming from the nostrils, please do not buy and let the sellers know. If they do not remove them from the selling aisle, please let Trish or Amy know.
This event has been successful because of wonderful vendors and responsible sellers.
Well said! However it does guarantee that your birds will come from a flock that is free from Pullorum, Typhoid, and Avian Influenza. No one should ever bring birds that have symptoms of parasites or illness.
Here are my personal guidelines from Hens and Friends for packaging and selling birds.
*Birds will be wormed, with ivomec 4 weeks in advance of the meet. This takes care of any internal and any external parasites.
*All birds, over 4 weeks of age will have been vaccinated for Marek's Disease.
*I use Diatomaceous Earth in all of my coops and runs on the farm, so I never have any problems with mites.
*All chicks under 4 weeks of age will be in leak proof containers in shavings with a heat pack to keep them warm. Heat packs will be provided in boxes of chicks that will be sold, to keep them warm on their trip to their new home.
*No one will be allowed to touch or handle the birds. This would be a real problem that could spread disease and viruses. I will be glad to inspect them with you before your purchase. If you touch the bird, you must buy the bird! For bio security reasons I cannot and will not take the birds back home if you have touched them in any way. Once you pay for your birds and carry them away, they are yours.
*All birds will be in leak proof containers and cardboard boxes lined with newspaper and fresh shavings will be used to pack up birds for transit to their new homes.
* I use an approved disinfectant on my carriers that should keep the birds safe during the meet.
*Buyers should always educate themselves about quarantine procedures, vaccines and biosecurity before buying birds from anyone, anywhere.
* I will also provide hand sanitizers, and wipes, should a customer need one of those products!