Killing chicks that are hurt

[aart]

You really had me thinking back. For the few chickens I've had to dispatch, I've nursed them along until there was absolutely no hope. They were at the point of sitting in one spot quietly.

However, in case you're meaning putting chickens down for slaughter, I don't shoot those. I'll be using a hatchet and a block. Very different

I'd just be worried that they'd move as I pulled the trigger.....
...why I use broomstick CD for euthanization and cone/throat slit for slaughter.

 

[Dr.Dale]

I was curious to know how all of y'all humanely kill chicks

I saw this document which seemed to cover the options in a good and systematic way. Each method has advantages and disadvantages.

http://www.poultryindustrycouncil.c...delines-for-On-Farm-Euthanasia-of-Poultry.pdf

 

[BantyChooks]

I saw this document which seemed to cover the options in a good and systematic way. Each method has advantages and disadvantages.

http://www.poultryindustrycouncil.c...delines-for-On-Farm-Euthanasia-of-Poultry.pdf

I love that PDF.

 

[Newfarmer36]

Even then, a pellet gun can inflict a serious injury!!!

My son shot me in the forehead once with a bb gun that was about 3 inches away. It didn't feel too good! Y'all should've seen the blood squirting out of my head when my husband popped the bb out. I know it's off topic but I wanted to put that in!

 

[Wickedchicken6]

I'd just be worried that they'd move as I pulled the trigger.....
...why I use broomstick CD for euthanization and cone/throat slit for slaughter.

For euthanasia: I haven't had an issue, especially with chickens. If it wasn't working for me, I wouldn't use this method and I wouldn't suggest it to anyone else. I certainly won't take the shot if it's not right. I'm also aiming point blank at the base of the skull.

Shots from the front could go awry (I greatly dislike forward shots) but I've never euthanized any chicken this way. I did have to euthanize an older cow a couple weeks ago from the front, my first time from the front on a cow and second cow ever. There was a great chance for things to go wrong as she was able-bodied. I consider myself very precise and patient; one shot and she dropped, she quivered for a moment and it was done. Thankfully with no blood. The guys took over and I was able to leave and cry my way to the house.

For slaughter: in the brochure that Dr. Dale provided, check out the picture of decapitation with the axe. We use a nail in the front of the block and a measured twine that slips over the chickens head at the base of the skull and hooks onto the nail. The chicken's head is held securely but comfortably and a person holds the feet and wings securely. The neck is held outstretched with no chance for movement and all fingers and bodies are nowhere near the hatchet zone.

I don't think anyone should euthanize a bird/animal unless they feel comfortable with the procedure and have the proper equipment. That's when things can go wrong. There is the possibility of neighbors/relatives/friends who may be able to assist if the occasion arises. We have done that for others. Especially with chicks and poultry, it may be easier for someone who has not been involved so closely with them.

 

[Christii]

I put my in an auction, for i.e. a chick with splayed leg. Never was able to fix one that had that, but others have had success. What about drowning them, or exhaust pipe fumes? Just guessing here, never tried either.

My son worked at a large chicken & turkey farm & those were two of the methods he told me they used when they did not have their "gas truck" . . .

It all sounds terrible & breaks my heart at how many animals are culled every year.

But on a personal level with your own chickens, as hard as it may be, even I get that there may come a time that something has to be done for humane reasons in cases of injury or illness. I imagine it will be as difficult as having to let go of your cats or dogs.

Good to have the best info & options to know in advance. This site has so many great people that will for sure have many suggestions.

Thanks for asking "newfarmer36". I think it is a very good question & glad I saw the thread.

 

[Newfarmer36]

My son worked at a large chicken & turkey farm & those were two of the methods he told me they used when they did not have their "gas truck" . . .

It all sounds terrible & breaks my heart at how many animals are culled every year.

But on a personal level with your own chickens, as hard as it may be, even I get that there may come a time that something has to be done for humane reasons in cases of injury or illness. I imagine it will be as difficult as having to let go of your cats or dogs.

Good to have the best info & options to know in advance. This site has so many great people that will for sure have many suggestions.

Thanks for asking "newfarmer36". I think it is a very good question & glad I saw the thread.

You're welcome. I'm new at this and I just want to make sure, if the time arises, that I do things like it needs to be done.