Lethargic, fluffed up chicken with clear, runny poop. Close to death. URGENT

[Redhead Rae]

I just did some quick research on internal laying-it looks like the treatments available will only prolong the suffering. If it does turn out that way, what would be the best euthanazation method? I know it seems I'm quick to jump on that idea, but I promise you, I want her to live the best life that she can, and I'm near tears even thinking of that idea, but I want to make sure she doesn't have to suffer because I don't want to let go.

If this were the case, I would bleed her out. I think that is better than neck twisting or gassing her. The only other option would be to use sedatives, but that isn't an option if you don't have an avian vet. Have you ever slaughtered a chicken by bleeding them? If not, we can talk you through it.

 

[Rubysword]

I've never purposefully killed a chicken before, so it would be good if you could walk me through it.

 

[slukeplass22]

@casportpony No I didn't know that. Thanks for sharing

 

[Redhead Rae]

I've never purposefully killed a chicken before, so it would be good if you could walk me through it.

That will make it harder. I've only done in roosters and slaughtering a hen or a chick would be hard on me.

You need to turn the bird upside down in a killing cone. You can make one out of a milk jug with the bottom cut off and a hole in the top big enough for the head. I usually have the chicken's breasts towards me. I grab the comb with my left hand and stretch out their neck and I make a quick cut from the jaw line on the side of the bird facing my right hand all the way to behind their ear. The knife should be razor sharp. The movement is more of a slice, not a sawing motion. Let the draw of the blade cut, not the pressure towards the spine. If you don't see a quick spurt of blood immediately, slice again. The quicker you get the get this done, the easier on the bird. The spurt of blood should be a steady stream not a "drip-drip" if blood is only dripping at the start, the cut didn't get the jugular.

Does this make sense?

 

[Rubysword]

Yes.

 

[Redhead Rae]

Yes.

I hope you don't need to make use of the information. But we are here for you if you need us.

 

[casportpony]

Google "dispatching a chicken" and search the videos.

 

[Rubysword]

 

[Rubysword]

She's been like that ever since I came home an hour ago. She has access to food and water, but is not eating nor drinking. Should I euthanize her, or is she so close that I should just let her go in peace?

 

[Redhead Rae]

She's been like that ever since I came home an hour ago. She has access to food and water, but is not eating nor drinking. Should I euthanize her, or is she so close that I should just let her go in peace?

She doesn't seem to be in active distress (gasping, splayed out, struggling). As long as she is peaceful, I would let her be.