Had to euthanize a chicken yesterday...prolapsed vent + eggbound + pic

[jack'sgranny]

I just lost a hen for this very reason, the prolapsed vent? I didn't know what to call this, had never seen anything like it but your photo was exactly what I saw. I have a backyard flock of new hens, hatched in May, this one was one purchased, not for sure her age, however she was sickly acting as I read from this posting. Staying away from the others. I managed to get the stuck egg out hoping to not cause damage, after that she laid another egg fine. Then the next day acted funny again, then died. Years ago my parents had chickens on a farm never heard of this ever. I am learning tho.

 

[tinapmann]

Thanks for the pic and info. I am currently going through the same thing. Although my chick is a 9 month old Light Brahma. She is not egg bound in fact, in spite of everything continues to lay even though she is prolapsed and has been now for a week. We have tried everything and have decided to euthanize her Monday if she is not any better. I have grown attached to, Peep and this decision has not come very easily. And, I hope I don't have to go through this very often.

 

[Terri O]

I give kudos to you for knowing when enough is enough...I would be interested in your "method" too. Shoot me a PM I might need it tomorrow! Terri O in WI

 

[bbowen]

Oh my. That looks terrible. But it is good to know what to look for. I just got my first batch of chicks and one is not well. I don't know if I should keep trying to save her or if I should euthanize her. She doesn't appear to be in pain just sleeps all the time.

Its always been a tough call for me and sometimes I've waited too long. Its a hard choice every time.

 

[purpletree23]

A lot of people don't know when enough is enough. You do and I hope others learn from you. I'm really sorry you had to do what you did but I'm glad you did. Maybe I will PM you to have you describe how you um....how do I say this....made her stay on the board. I like the idea of the sock and hope I never have to use it but that is unrealistic of me.

You put her before yourself and that is the best a pet owner can do for their pet.

Take care of yourself

 

[thecitychicken]

Well, actually....the exact way I do the deed is detailed on my site TheCityChicken.com. It's on the FAQ page. You'll have to scroll down to find it; just look for a picture of a chicken on a board with a hatchet next to it. ~~Katy

 

[4-H chicken mom]

So sorry you had to go through that.

I know it was unpleasant but needed to be done. You helped many folks with your post.