Duckling Leg Injury DIAGNOSIS: Slipped Tendons

[3bird]

This 1.5-week old silver appleyard duckling has apparently injured its leg. Last night there was no issue. Both ducklings were running around and acting normal. This morning we noticed that Duckling #1 was favoring its left leg. We also noticed that the feed trough was in the middle of the brooder. We suspected the duckling got its foot caught in the feed trough and that is what caused the injury. Tonight it is worse. Here's a short video. Ideas of how we should proceed?

Thanks in advance.

 

[ruthhope]

Good idea on treating niacin deficiency -- use Durvet high level Vit B Complex as the duckling has symptoms, and then start nutrition yeast with the feed.
Meanwhile also give the ducklings supervised swimming for a short period several times a day as physiotherapy for the leg.

 

[ruthhope]

Does it matter that it says injectable sterile solution?

No it doesn't matter -- that just means it was prepared at a higher standard against contamination than oral medications!
The Durvet preparation is intended for injection in Cows or Sheep. We always give it orally in ducks. Peel of the aluminium foil, pull out the rubber plug and draw up 1 ml into a small plastic syringe to get the correct amount to soak into a treat. It soaks into dried mealie worms well and we all know how much ducks love mealie worms!!

 

[Miss Lydia]

As long as it’s not over doing I can’t imagine it would hurt. But swim therapy is the best way to help it gain strength..

 

[Miss Lydia]

How precious! I think that is a good move too on starting both on liquid B complex it's the best to get them over any deficiency.

 

[3bird]

No it doesn't matter -- that just means it was prepared at a higher standard against contamination than oral medications!
The Durvet preparation is intended for injection in Cows or Sheep. We always give it orally in ducks. Peel of the aluminium foil, pull out the rubber plug and draw up 1 ml into a small plastic syringe to get the correct amount to soak into a treat. It soaks into dried mealie worms well and we all know how much ducks love mealie worms!!

I figured as much--just an off label use, but my wife who was at the store this morning was anxious. We administered the first dose with peas, and they loved it. They have not tried mealworms yet, but they are going to love them I'm sure (although their parents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and future mates are spoiled on Grubblies now!).

 

[Miss Lydia]

Maybe a combination, definitely keep treating for niacin def. You could also use some Epsom salt compresses on the leg.

 

[WannaBeHillBilly]

You are some of the most dedicated duck parents that i know!

Good luck little duckling i wish you all the best!

I will have 10 new duckies next week, Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on USPS…

 

[3bird]

Since she probably isn't able to get her own grit from the ground I'd offer grit too.

Can she bend her foot in a normal position at all? How about in water?

It's VERY tight....but we're working on it.

 

[Canadian Wind]

I'm still in shock, as I'm sure you all are. I know I haven't contributed anything to the thread, but I've been following it and I'm not ashamed to say this has brought tears to my eyes.

She couldn't have had better parents than you. My thoughts are with you. Now where did I put the tissue... HUGE HUGS TO EVERYONE!