I culled yesterday.

[briteday]

I'm with you. I used to put hens in the "hospital coop" for prolapse or whatever. Not anymore. If it isn't something that is easily taken care of, I've discovered that I usually end up losing them in a few weeks anyway, no matter how hard I try to fix them. So now I make a choice after a day or two (depending on the severity, a prolapse that stays put after 1-2 tries can stay in the hospital coop before I make a decision, chronic problems...

not so much) and just take care of things quickly. I still have tears in my eyes every single time, but I know that they will not suffer. Hugs to you.

 

[Irukanji]

Look on the bright side, you won't have to deal with (insert number of chickens here) being sick and having to kill them, too.

 

[chicmom]

Thanks for all the kind words! You guys are all so comforting!

Sharon

 

[harleyjo]

I have a question for those of you who have culled for the reasons you have said in this thread. Do you eat these chickens then? To the OP... I am sorry for losing your rooster.

 

[bobbi-j]

I wouldn't eat a chicken that I culled due to illness. It could be safe, but I don't like the idea of eating any kind of meat that came from a sick animal.

 

[harleyjo]

Quote:
That was why I asked. That would be my thought too and I was just curious.

 

[LittleDarlings]

I am so sorry you had to take care of him like that. I have never had to do that or anything like it, but I know as my little Backyard Farm grows the likelihood does too. I thank you for sharing your story as it helps me slowly get mentally prepared for that day. (((hugs)))

ETA: Corrections in my typing due to 1001 questions from my children!

 

[chicmom]

Quote:
I'm glad I have everyone at BYC to share these things with! It is comforting to be able to share things, happy or sad. The only advice I would give if you feel the need to cull, is to prepare for it, because it's a sad, kind of disturbing thing to have to do, so you want it to go smoothly and quickly.

Also, a few have asked if I ate the rooster. No, because he had an illness, and I don't think it's a good idea.....

Sharon