Hen laying on side breathing heavily

[Anon112]

The run is constructed entirely of chicken wire, so yes, it is as ventilated as it could possibly be. I do have electricity nearby so a fan would definitely be an option I could do. I put a shallow pool of water in the run and they were all very interested in drinking from it but none have been brave enough to actually step in yet, we’ll see if that changes! Most of the time I work from home (it’s my business and it only occasionally takes me out of the house, this week has been one of those rare instances where I’ve had to be away each day). I usually refresh the water several times in a day, especially in conditions like these.

Some animals are just more vulnerable to heat stroke. My sister lost a chicken last year to heat despite having a really shaded run, fresh water on demand, a watered down area in the run, etc. If you're mostly home tomorrow that's great, as you can watch in case she seems to be going downhill again.

Is the partial shade on your run from natural shade (trees)? My run is much the same (totally wire on the top). I put a tarp over part of it (up the side and a bit over the top, blocking where the most intense sun comes from) and the difference it made was amazing. That's the only other suggestion I might have.

It sounds like you're doing a great job supporting them in this heat! I hope your girl is feeling better tomorrow!