Is showing safe?

[ncCHICKS]

I was thinking of next year entering my Dominique into the cumberland county fair. Is it safe for her, or how high is the risk for her to get sick.

 

[Black Feather]

Like anything, if you manage the risks your hens will be far less likely to get sick than if you do nothing. Look into vaccinations and preventative measures for your area. I would also ask other show people in your area what they do to protect their flock. If they say 'nothing' then move on until you find someone who does take preventative measures.

For my flock I vaccinate for ITL (infectious laryngotracheitis) as a part of the government program. I also make sure my flock is in tip top health and never take a bird that is suspect for being under the weather. I also give my birds stress aid (a vitamin supplement) a few days before, during and after the show. I also spray my birds against mites before and after the show as well to prevent picking anything up while at the show.

Handle your birds so they are used to it and maybe even place them in a small cage for a few hours each day if you want to help them get accustom to the show environment.

Hope this helps a bit!

Cheers,
Urban Coyote

 

[WoodlandWoman]

Some people also do a short quarantine after a show.

 

[NYREDS]

As a general rule people who show care for their birds well & bring healthy birds to shows.
That said, I have also seen some pretty sick birds at county fair poultry shows.
In my own experience having shown for quite a few years I have never had a bird get sick after a show. I don't quarantine BTW. But, I don't show at fairs & I suspect more illness may be present there than at other shows.