Ending a life peacefully

[Fishkeeper]

It's not unreasonable for someone to have a hard time using their hands to kill a pet, especially in a violent manner. Because that's what beheading or breaking the spine are- they're violent. Very quick, but violent nonetheless. Would you look down on someone who would have a hard time breaking a dog's neck? Some people do keep chickens as pets. I don't know if they still count as livestock if kept like pets, but for most purposes, the chickens kept as pets aren't livestock any more.
I agree that it's irresponsible to leave an animal to suffer. I just don't think it's helpful to look down on anyone for being unable to break their pet's neck. A more constructive course of action would be reassurance that it is indeed quick and the best thing to do, and if they still can't do it, offer alternatives.

 

[roosterhavoc]

It's not unreasonable for someone to have a hard time using their hands to kill a pet, especially in a violent manner. Because that's what beheading or breaking the spine are- they're violent. Very quick, but violent nonetheless. Would you look down on someone who would have a hard time breaking a dog's neck? Some people do keep chickens as pets. I don't know if they still count as livestock if kept like pets, but for most purposes, the chickens kept as pets aren't livestock any more.
I agree that it's irresponsible to leave an animal to suffer. I just don't think it's helpful to look down on anyone for being unable to break their pet's neck. A more constructive course of action would be reassurance that it is indeed quick and the best thing to do, and if they still can't do it, offer alternatives.

I’m guessing you’re talking to me?
No a dog is a pet/companion animal. Chickens are still livestock for now no matter how they’re kept. If they weren’t you would be able to keep them within city limits everywhere and that’s just not the case. I suppose you can shield yourself from all the violence in the world. I prefer to have a more realistic view instead of a fairy tale.
Regardless the AVMA recommends cervical dislocation and shooting as an acceptable means of euthanasia. You can choose not to use any of the methods. That’s entirely up to you. The general idea is to prevent anymore suffering. To me this isn’t a very difficult concept.

 

[Kris5902]

If you’re not capable of quickly doing this yourself, then hopefully taking the bird to a vet is an option. This is a part of keeping chickens, just as any other animal. If your dog or cat was suffering horribly you would do them this kindness.

It is intimidating to cull a chicken. Especially for the first time. There is nothing wrong in reaching out for help, but this is a reality of responsible animal care. I think it’s not just the act of taking a life that is hard, it’s the fear of failing to do it well and causing even more suffering.

You’ve gotten many good suggestions on how to do it, and made the decision that it is the right time. Whatever you choose, have a 100% sure backup plan handy, a sharp hatchet or loppers, and moral support or someone able to finish the job if needed. The best way to make sure nothing goes wrong is to be prepared to handle it if it does. Like putting on rain gear will clear up the weather right quick.

Best wishes, Sorry for your loss

 

[Fishkeeper]

I’m guessing you’re talking to me?
No a dog is a pet/companion animal. Chickens are still livestock for now no matter how they’re kept.

You know some people keep chickens as pets, right? Some people get genuinely attached to their birds. Something being legally classified as livestock doesn't mean people can't keep them like pets, and get attached to them like pets.

 

[Kris5902]

Regardless of an animal being a pet or livestock, Finding an appropriate method that an inexperienced person is able to perform, which results in an end to the animals suffering is the key point.

It is intimidating for someone who hasn’t done it before, and a person reaching out for help here probably doesn’t have access to someone with experience, and most likely is facing this for the first time. We should all be mindful of this and sensitive to it.

As for dogs... in some countries they are considered food animals too. Killing a chicken just seems easier because of their size and designation as “food”. Most people would be hard pressed to kill a cow, but that doesn’t stop them from eating beef.

 

[roosterhavoc]

You know some people keep chickens as pets, right? Some people get genuinely attached to their birds. Something being legally classified as livestock doesn't mean people can't keep them like pets, and get attached to them like pets.

I’m well aware people keep chickens as pets. That doesn’t change methods of euthanasia.

 

[Ms Clucky]

OP, I had the same idea as you did with the sleeping pills and was surprised to never see it mentioned. Until now... I think tube feeding a sufficient dose of sleeping pills dissolved in water would really be the most humane way.

@Ms Clucky , your heart is in the right place, but what would happen in the woods? The hen would be scared, still in pain, and when whatever finds her, it won't prioritize a painless death for her.

Ya I know. I really didn't think of that either.

 

[Squishychicken]

Rabbits? I would think their necks are too big.

There necks are actually quite thin. As long as it's done right the vertebraes totally separate so theres nothing but skin holding the body together. I've accidentally broke the back a few times they die right away too but it's harder to clean. As long as it's done donw this method works for me

 

[Wolfefarmyard]

I’m well aware people keep chickens as pets. That doesn’t change methods of euthanasia.

Well I mean it could....
If someone is keeping a chicken as a pet, then they will probably want them euthanized at a vet’s office.

 

[rjohns39]

OP, I'm going to give you a couple of websites of folks who would likely be willing to help you. I believe the cone and a very sharp knife is the best way, but It's not easy and takes a bit of skill. Tubing cutters also work well but again I don't think that fits you. I'm still an amateur and have only put down a few hundred meat birds. When I do it right they fall asleep in the cone and never feel it. When I do it wrong I feel terrible.

So here are the websites look for someone near you.
https://apppa.org/
http://www.spnusa.com/

both groups know how to do it painlessly. It takes patience and the right cut. I really don't think you're ready to jump off that bridge. If I were closer I'd offer to help.
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