Help new chicken owner with wheezing chicken

[mnmfarris]

Hello. I need some advice. We live in rural Nevada and it is the weekend. That means we have no access to a vet. While checking on the girls last night, I discovered one of our 7 1/2 month old Ameracaunas, Sadie, laboring to breathe and making a wheezing sound, I believe, on expiration only. She is eating/drinking fine to my knowledge and I hadn't noticed any unusual behavior in any of the chickens. Other than a small mite problem in some of the other chickens that we're treating with dusting (them individually), no other peeps in our flock are showing any symptoms of any other troubles. It hurts my heart to see her gasping like this. I've read you can give chickens prednisone. I have 5mg Prednisone tabs on hand that are for humans and can split/divide. Is that advisable if I find after exam this morn. that she might be swollen in her trachea? I also have a baggie that I purchased of Tetracycline, but have never had to use antibx for my 16 chickens - ever. I'm not sure how to dispense that. Would I just give it to her via syringe (orally)? To the whole flock as a precaution? UGH. HELP! I would really appreciate some direction. Thanks!

 

[mnmfarris]

After more thorough investigation this morning, Sadie is still wheezing on expiration and seems to be sneezing a little - twice/30 mins. She's eating and drinking fine and acting well in all other regards. Perhaps she is just getting a cold? This is the hi-desert. This time of year the days are still getting in the 80's and the nights in the coops are down to low 50's. Should I just start the Tetracycline? Do I give it just to her orally - or should I put it in the flock's water? I'd like to know that Sadie is getting the dose she should.... but what IS that? Thanks for your input.