How To Cope With The Loss Of My Chicken

[HannahL]

Hi, all. I am absolutely heartbroken today. My sweetest hen, Joya, a beautiful Buff Orpington, died today. She has been in and out of the vets office the last couple of weeks. They think that she ate something toxic. However, the last two weeks or so, she seemed to be getting better. Her color was returning and she seemed more herself. She was eating and drinking better and seemed more like her spunky self again. However, over the last few days, she had become pale again and was panting nonstop. She seemed more lethargic. I had a vet appointment scheduled for tomorrow, but this morning she seemed so sick that I put her in the car and started driving to the vet. She died on the way there. Her heart just gave out. I like to think that she went peacefully. I am going to have her cremated so I can keep her ashes near me. She was the sweetest hen. She would come running whenever she saw you, loved to snuggle, and would make the sweetest little noises when you stroked her back. You should have seen how much love was in her eyes when she looked up at you. Yesterday, her last day, she spent the day outside with her sister, stratching around and rolling. We also indulged her with some ice cream. I am so heartbroken. Even though I know that there is nothing more I could have done for her, I feel like I should have done more. She had only just turned two and I just want to know that she was happy and felt loved during her short life. Does anyone have any tips on how to get over this loss? I am an absolute wreck and can’t seem to move on.

 

[IamRainey]

Just remember that you gave her a good life until those sad feelings of loss transition into happy memories of her. Did she have a name?

I have just been reading about Orpingtons. They sound lovely though they don't sound ideal for my hot climate.

I'm glad you still have her sister. Enjoy her!

 

[HannahL]

Just remember that you gave her a good life until those sad feelings of loss transition into happy memories of her. Did she have a name?

I have just been reading about Orpingtons. They sound lovely though they don't sound ideal for my hot climate.

I'm glad you still have her sister. Enjoy her!

Yes, her name was Joya. Orpingtons are so sweet. I highly recommend them. Joya was family to me. Thank you so much for your kind words, they mean a lot.

 

[sumi]

So sorry to hear of your loss I myself have lost birds that were very special to me and it's hard. Allow yourself time and grief like you would over any other loss. In time you'll start feeling better.

 

[IamRainey]

What an appropriate name for a bird who gave you so much pleasure!

Memories last forever but, happily, they don't stay sad. And there are so many chickens to love.

 

[IamRainey]

What a beautiful sentiment, sumi! It brought tears to my eyes even though I haven't been at this long enough to lose one yet.

 

[staceyj]

It sounds like you were an awesome chicken mom!
Yes. She had a great life although not a long one.
Quality over quantity.

We lost a 14 month old australorp suddenly earlier this year. Margaret-Tate.
It broke our hearts.
Even my DH sobbed.
She was loud and hilarious and definitely the clown (and boss) of the flock.
Time will heal the immediate pain and allow all the good memories to return. Spend time caring for your other girls. i promise it will make you smile.
I’m so very sorry for your loss.

 

[MissChick@dee]

I can’t imagine your heartbreak. A lot of people just don’t get how we can bond so deeply with our birds (they don’t get dog love either). She was blessed to have you this I know from just what I read in your post. I understand how you feel. So sorry ~

 

[HannahL]

Thank you all so much for your kind words. Sumi, your picture brought tears to my eyes. You are all so sweet and I already am starting to slowly heal. The name Joya really did fit her so well. Having my other hen and little baby chicks have given me something to focus on which is helpful. And hearing everyone say that they think she was happy is so incredibly comforting. Thank you