L:yme disease in my six year old

[kharz]

Hello -

My six year old was just diagnosed with lyme disease. We were very lucky and caught the bulls-eye, so there shouldn't be a problem getting her cured. But it did open my eyes up and I wanted some advice from ya'll:

1. We have five chickens, who we let free range typically on weekends
2. Some deer cross the yard, but not a lot due to the smell of our dogs
3. Lyme disease can be a really bad disease
4. We just put frontline in our dogs to help (found a few ticks on them)
5. I am seriously considering spraying for lyme disease. I know this HAS to be bad for the chickens .... but my family takes priority over everything.
6. if the chickens free range after spraying for ticks .... does this make the eggs dangerous
7. I know chickens should get the ticks ... but it isnt happening (not enough free range time, we both work full time, etc) ... so I need to make SOME change

What do ya'll think?

 

[cavemanrich]

Read how long the chemical is active and don't eat eggs for the duration of active time. Contact ortho or whatever the manufacturer of the insecticide is and ask them. They would know best. Wishing you BEST.

 

[keesmom]

I have found chickens are not as effective against ticks as other poultry species such as guineas. Deer are not the only carrier of deer ticks, rodents carry them as well. Back when I had a dog (my avatar) Frontline had no effect. In peak season I would routinely find 30+ a day on him. We are located in a tick hot spot here. I know many people who have been diagnosed with Lyme multiple times. You are fighting an uphill battle.