Ok, I know that title sounds bizarre , but here's the scoop: about two weeks ago one of my silkies was attacked by a dog that happened into our yard just when we had the gate open for five minutes. She sustained a deep puncture wound in her back, and about a 4 inch long tear in her flesh and into the muscle (I know, that is big for a silkie!) After getting over the sight of the poor girl, we got her cleaned and bandaged up. She is doing really well now, and the wound is now a dense scab a bit bigger than a quarter. I have started letting her out during the day, but am still keeping her in a clean, warm space, separate from the rest of the flock, at night (except for her sister, who is always by her side.) So the issue is this: perhaps due to the fact that she has had antibiotic ointment on her back (under gauze) for a while now, her feathers are just filthy, and she doesn't seem to be able to clean herself up very well (the way that birds miraculously do after giving themselves dust baths.) Does anyone have any suggestions? She no longer has the bandage or ointment on, though I am giving the scab a little betadine soak at night when she comes in at night. Somehow giving her a bath seems a bit absurd, but who knows, maybe she would appreciate a fresh start. Thank you!
