Chicken foot fell off

[NBraun2624]

How did the vet visit go?

Ok, the foot came off in a good place (if there’s anything good about it) but some bone exposed. Ideally she should have leg debrided and skin closed over stump. But, vet can’t do it for 2 weeks. There is a chance it will heal over on its own which I think is the way it’s went w others in the group whose poor chickens have had this happen. Ugh I just feel so bad for her

 

[NBraun2624]

Ok, the foot came off in a good place (if there’s anything good about it) but some bone exposed. Ideally she should have leg debrided and skin closed over stump. But, vet can’t do it for 2 weeks. There is a chance it will heal over on its own which I think is the way it’s went w others in the group whose poor chickens have had this happen. Ugh I just feel so bad for her

We also switched up her antibiotics so hopefully she will do ok.

 

[Allsfairinloveandbugs]

You are correct that most all chicken keepers (who don't euthanize severe frostbite cases) allow the injuries to heal naturally, and usually there are no complications. The main reason people don't seek vet care is because they can't find a vet who treats birds, followed closely by the expense of veterinary fees.

You have expressed a lot of empathy for Betsy and her loss, and currently she is yes very handicapped. But after her stumps heal, and with your care and attention, she will be ok. The fact you have access to an avian vet and are yourself a vet tech allows her outcome to be even better.

Any info you can add to Betsy's thread will provide hope and inspiration to those seeking help in the future with their own frostbite patients. I for one am very interested to see what you decide re prosthetics. If you are able to find a solution that allows her to return to near full mobility, that will be a huge contribution.

 

[tricid]

Prosthetics or not, I'm interested in her progress/recovery. I'm over here cheering for the gal! She seems to be in very capable hands.

 

[NBraun2624]

Prosthetics or not, I'm interested in her progress/recovery. I'm over here cheering for the gal! She seems to be in very capable hands.

Betsy’s other foot is now off. Both are bandaged. The avian vet recommended putting silver sulfadiazine cream on it and change bandage and reapply every few days. She does seem more comfortable now that feet are no longer attached. Anyone who has dealt with this before, how long before the tissue healed over
the stumps? I should’ve asked the vet that but she was running almost an hour behind so our visit was quick as I was also in a hurry to get back to work.

 

[NBraun2624]

Update on Betsy…
So far so good, she is standing on her padded bandages and moves around using her wings for stability. She does great for bandage changes, no reaction or show of discomfort. Stumps look good no smell or infection present as of now. I clean them gently with a chlorhexidine solution then apply silver cream and gauze along with cotton for extra padding. I do check legs daily for any swelling or feeling warmer than normal. Have been changing bandage every 2-3 days. It’s crazy the resilience of these amazing creatures. Betsy usually eats sunflower seeds from my daughters hands while I take care of her stumps.

 

[Missciara]

Is this a common issue?

I'm new to chickens, certainly not a doctor nor vet, but I have just about every type and style of 3d printer and wouldn't mind helping with something like that if it'd be of any use here.

My mom just adopted Penny. She has a deformed foot, and the other she has been left with only a stump. She has a very hard time walking and getting around. I’m now seeking help to find a way to make her lifer easier.

 

[Eggcessive]

My mom just adopted Penny. She has a deformed foot, and the other she has been left with only a stump. She has a very hard time walking and getting around. I’m now seeking help to find a way to make her lifer easier.

Welcome to BYC. It would be more simple to start a new thread of your own, and give details and post pictures. Here is where to post one, and click on the green box:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forums/emergencies-diseases-injuries-and-cures.10/