Hello.....new to chickens

[Fluffers]

 

[shamforge]

Hello....just checking with those that responded so kindly to my post. I came home from work today and she just didn't look good. Really no worse, but certainly no better. I took her to a bird vet this evening, and I'm sad to say we put her down. He said she was so severely under developed, and thin. No gurgling or raspy sound to her lungs, and no heart murmur....just sickly and not normal. There was no paralysis in her legs as there was sensation, but total inability to stabilize herself. He didn't believe it was marecks. He felt she was more than likely a "runt" just weak from birth. I feel better now, although I cried like a baby. Stayed with her until she was gone. Talked to her and pet her. I feel so silly, but I can't help it. She was so special and I could never turn my back on something so precious and determined to live. Even though she is gone, I'm satisfied we did all that we could and that this is right. Sigh. I guess if we are going forward with backyard chickens, I need to grow some thick skin.... And maybe learn to cull ourselves when the time is right. We are inexperienced. I just can't believe how much it hurts. Anyway, thank you for reading my post....night. Shannon

 

[Kelsie2290]

So sorry that you lost your girl. You did what was right for her, and while it was very hard for you, she had a good life with you while you had her, and I am sure you made her happy. It's not silly, she was your pet, they are living breathing animals with their own personalities and are remarkably intelligent in some ways, you are going to get attached to them, we understand, we do the same. Hopefully your heart will heal and you will have other chickens that you will come to appreciate as much as you did her.

 

[shamforge]

Thank you so much... We still have two of the original four that are thriving. They are the silliest things. We plan on adding to the flock very soon. This was sad, but grateful for the experience. I always thought birds were different than caring for dogs and cats. Turns out they really aren't. I was surprised at how easy it was to care and keep her healthy. It's a good thing. Thanks again

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello....just checking with those that responded so kindly to my post. I came home from work today and she just didn't look good. Really no worse, but certainly no better. I took her to a bird vet this evening, and I'm sad to say we put her down. He said she was so severely under developed, and thin. No gurgling or raspy sound to her lungs, and no heart murmur....just sickly and not normal. There was no paralysis in her legs as there was sensation, but total inability to stabilize herself. He didn't believe it was marecks. He felt she was more than likely a "runt" just weak from birth. I feel better now, although I cried like a baby. Stayed with her until she was gone. Talked to her and pet her. I feel so silly, but I can't help it. She was so special and I could never turn my back on something so precious and determined to live. Even though she is gone, I'm satisfied we did all that we could and that this is right. Sigh. I guess if we are going forward with backyard chickens, I need to grow some thick skin.... And maybe learn to cull ourselves when the time is right. We are inexperienced. I just can't believe how much it hurts. Anyway, thank you for reading my post....night. Shannon

I am so sorry about your hen. It is never easy to put them down, but I think you did the right thing.

I hope your heavy heart can heal soon.

 

[drumstick diva]

You are not silly for being so upset, you are just a warm, caring person, which is the best way to be.\
Glad you joined the flock.