Emotional Healing After Dog Attack.

[RhodeIslandRedMomma]

Yesterday our neighbor's dog got loose and managed to break the bottom of a 6'+ high chain link fence to get at our chickens. Out of 10 birds, 5 were killed instantly and 3 injured to the point that we had to put them down. I have only 2 hens left. They were hand-raised from chicks and extremely friendly; would jump up and sit down in my lap when I sat in the pen, always wanting some kind of attention. Needless to say I am devastated.

Today the 2 hens I have left are refusing to leave the coop; they have not been outside all day. I expect some type of emotional recovery time is needed, but I'm wondering what I can do to help bring them around. Should I spend time in the pen near them as I always have or give them a few days to rest by themselves? It was horrid enough for me to watch, so I can only imagine what they must be going through. Any input would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Duck_life]

The chickens lost a majority of the flock, spend time with them and let them heal, and if you're up for it add some more members to the flock

 

[RhodeIslandRedMomma]

The chickens lost a majority of the flock, spend time with them and let them heal, and if you're up for it add some more members to the flock

Thanks for the input!

 

[Duck_life]

Thanks for the input!

No problem! i'm sure the experts will be here though to give better information than me though.

 

[TwoShepherds]

I'm new to chickens so I don't have an advice. I just wanted to say I'm sorry that happened. I'm sure it'll just take a little time for them to recover and feel safe again. Gosh, I'd have thought a 6' chain link fence would have kept dogs out. Wishing you the best.

 

[HomesteaderWife]

@RhodeIslandRedMomma -

I've been through very similar, but it was our own dog and we caught him in the middle of the act. It was very difficult- we lost almost all of our chickens and all of our ducks. We lost one chicken to injury later. The chickens took a good while to recover, and remained very high alert at all times when not hiding. Be gentle and patient with them. Maybe take them some of their favorite treats to encourage them. Take this time to reinforce your coop and examine the rest of your flock for injury. I understand where you are coming from in a way, and know it's hard when they're your pets. Best wishes and healing prayers.

 

[RhodeIslandRedMomma]

I'm new to chickens so I don't have an advice. I just wanted to say I'm sorry that happened. I'm sure it'll just take a little time for them to recover and feel safe again. Gosh, I'd have thought a 6' chain link fence would have kept dogs out. Wishing you the best.

I appreciate the well wishes more than I can say.

 

[RhodeIslandRedMomma]

@RhodeIslandRedMomma -

I've been through very similar, but it was our own dog and we caught him in the middle of the act. It was very difficult- we lost almost all of our chickens and all of our ducks. We lost one chicken to injury later. The chickens took a good while to recover, and remained very high alert at all times when not hiding. Be gentle and patient with them. Maybe take them some of their favorite treats to encourage them. Take this time to reinforce your coop and examine the rest of your flock for injury. I understand where you are coming from in a way, and know it's hard when they're your pets. Best wishes and healing prayers.

You are so kind, thank you very much for the sentiments and advice!

 

[HomesteaderWife]

@RhodeIslandRedMomma - Please do keep us updated on how your other chickens are doing?

 

[RhodeIslandRedMomma]

@RhodeIslandRedMomma - Please do keep us updated on how your other chickens are doing?

I certainly will. It has been almost non-stop rain here since that terrible day, so my 2 hens have not ventured out of the coop much. So far they do seem to appreciate the company though and hop out to greet me whenever I enter their pen.

Will keep you posted.