My 6 year old runner duck won't sit down

[jennytg3]

My runner duck is about 6 now and has outlived her brothers/sisters, even though she was the 'runt.' She'd always had foot problems where she would put one foot on top of her other foot and then fall down a lot, but she was able to get around. She's become a pet as she doesn't lay anymore.

I've noticed that I haven't seen her sit or lie down in about a month! She seems fine otherwise - swims in her pool, etc. I usually carry her from the pool to her bed at night as she doesn't like to walk. She might lay down at night but I never see her do it during the day. Is that a problem? I would get super tired of it if I couldn't lay down. I wish she could tell me if she's in pain or not having a good time living anymore. She eats well and seems perky though.

Is it mean to just keep one duck? I don't want to get any more as I don't want them to pick on her, and after this duck I'm done w/poultry for a while.

 

[Amiga]

You might consider an unbreakable mirror for company. Duck can have leg problems - but they also have their little quirks. So, it may be that it hurts a little to bend her leg joints - if you have a good vet they may be able to prescribe something.

hennible posted that her vet said Advil is okay for ducks. I made these notes from her post.

For ducks 6-8 lbs 25-40mg twice daily adult tablets cut up or children's liquid Advil 1.5ml twice daily, orally.

Amiga's arithmetic – 8 pounds 40 mg is 5 mg per pound
6 pounds 25 mg, is just over 4 mg per pound

so, 4 to 5 mg per pound of duck

 

[jennytg3]

Thank you! I will try the mirror and check w/our vet!

 

[Amiga]

Please keep us posted!