Injured chick

[pasofan]

I ordered chicks from a hatchery, and when they arrived this morning, I found that one was squished down into the excelsior, with the result that one leg was stretched out behind and the left wing was sitting next to its head rather than at its side. I contacted the hatchery, and they suggested a splint or hobbles, but the chick is not able to stand on its own; it sort of flops around. If I support its hind end with my finger, it can stay upright, but if I take my finger away, it falls down again. I have given it water and food, and it will take them ... right now, it's very active, but I don't know what to do. Can anyone help? The hatchery says that sometimes leg issues resolve in a couple of days ... will the chick survive that long without free access to water and food? I tried to post a picture, but it only opens a box for a link.

 

[FoodFreedomNow]

Photos would definitely be helpful. See if this thread helps troubleshoot.

I've found that chick leg issues have the best outcomes if they're addressed as early as possible. Have you already checked the tendon in the leg that's stretched out to rule out a slipped tendon? Can you also offer a supportive supplement with vitamins and electrolytes?

This site has information about leg problems in poultry that you may find useful, too. Best of luck with your chick's recovery.