Injured hen - how long to isolate?!

[kgdubois]

My hen that was attacked by a neighbor's dog on Friday is doing much better

She is eating well, drinking and up on her feet; however, she is still limping pretty badly. How long should I keep her isolated from the rest of the flock? She seems alright when I let her out of the dog crate in our yard, but I'm nervous about just turning her loose with the others. None of them are particularly agressive/dominant, but I am afraid they might pick on a wounded member of the flock. I also don't want to keep her away from them for too long, knowing she'll have to fight her way back into the pecking order if I do...so, any advice? I work during the week, and cannot observe during the day, so that is not a option.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Judy]

If she doesn't have visible wounds, you might try her with the flock in the evening when you are there. Another possibility is to give her a buddy to stay with her.