easy way to euthanize a older sick hen without being painful UPDATE...

My husband uses the ax very sharp and it's very quick. sorry your having to do this. we also tape their legs together so theres no running around.

 

Shot to the head with a .22...quick and painless.

 

I don't twist/wring necks, I do break them though, with the broomstick method. Basically you calm the bird, put the broomstick right below it's chin, stand firmly on each side of the stick one foot either side of it's head, and yank the feet up. Once you get the bird in position, don't hesitate, so they won't realize it's coming. They will flap around as they do, but they are already dead. It's about instant as far as I can tell, and the only method I'm comfortable doing myself. I've only had to put down one adult bird for injuries, and it sucks, I'm sorry just know you're doing the right thing.

 

I need a better visual on this broom stick method. So the bird is on the ground with the broomstick placed over it's neck at the level of the chin, then you stand on either side of the stick with your feet(this must stop circulation also), to hold the head still while you pull at the feet with all your strenght to break the neck, correct? just in case I need to do this.

sorry you are in this position

 

Quote:Yes I usually hold the bird and tell it my goodbyes, then tip it upside down to get it "calmed" (I don't normally carry them that way though) and lay it down gently, place the broomstick gently stand up, then be quick once you get your feet in place, because they will start to notice something is off when the pressure is on the stick, so don't hesitate at that point. It quick and non-bloody and doesn't seem to freak them out too much in the moment right before. Use a swift yank, rather than a steady pull and it's over fast. It really doesn't take a whole lot of "strength" If you are paying good attention when you are yanking their legs you can feel the life go out of them. If you feel it, it's sad, but re-assuring at the same time. but when I'm processing I usually do it so fast it's over before I know it. They flap around of course, but it's because they are already gone. I hold them by the feet until they are still.