Kissing chickens is a bad idea too.
This is from an article by CBS news citing warnings from the CDC.
It may also be tempting for kids and adults to cuddle and kiss their chicks, but keep a distance.
"It may be in the chicken's mouth area because they peck around on the ground. Infection may occur when you're handling live poultry, too, when you are cleaning out your coop area," said Davison, who gets calls everyday from backyard bird owners.
Chicks and ducks may appear clean to the human eye, but they can still carry salmonella. Here are other ways flock owners can avoid getting sick:
People who became ill told the CDC they had purchased baby chicks from a variety of locations including feed supply stores, websites, hatcheries and relatives.
Families who keep backyard chickens and ducks should also be sure to give their feathered pets regular veterinarian check-ups, just like they would a family dog or cat, said Davison. More and more veterinarians are becoming aware of flock problems, so, depending on where you live, you may not need a bird specialist. Your dog's doctor might be able to help with your chickens, too.
This is from an article by CBS news citing warnings from the CDC.
It may also be tempting for kids and adults to cuddle and kiss their chicks, but keep a distance.
"It may be in the chicken's mouth area because they peck around on the ground. Infection may occur when you're handling live poultry, too, when you are cleaning out your coop area," said Davison, who gets calls everyday from backyard bird owners.
Chicks and ducks may appear clean to the human eye, but they can still carry salmonella. Here are other ways flock owners can avoid getting sick:
- Always wash hands well with soap and water after handling feathered pets, and keep hands away from the face.
- Don't let live poultry inside the house, especially in areas where food is served.
- Don't let kids under 5 handle or touch chicks, ducklings or other live poultry without adult supervision.
- Toss eggs that look dirty or cracked. Don't rinse them with cold water.
- Refrigerate the eggs after you take them from the coop.
- Cook eggs well.
People who became ill told the CDC they had purchased baby chicks from a variety of locations including feed supply stores, websites, hatcheries and relatives.
Families who keep backyard chickens and ducks should also be sure to give their feathered pets regular veterinarian check-ups, just like they would a family dog or cat, said Davison. More and more veterinarians are becoming aware of flock problems, so, depending on where you live, you may not need a bird specialist. Your dog's doctor might be able to help with your chickens, too.
they’re the messiest, nastiest things. 
adorable but gross 
