My hen was attacked

[kthurman3400]

Hi All,

My 3 yr old Barred Rock hen, Louise was attacked by a stray dog last week on Tuesday. Her back is all torn up and her feathers are all gone down to her base of her tail. She was very bloody but I was able to rinse her wounds and stop the bleeding. I cut away her feathers from the wound and any loose hanging skin. I have been rinsing it and applied neosporin to keep it from getting infected. She is in a crate living in the basement and I was taking her out for little strolls to get fresh air and she was eating and drinking just fine on her own. Her wound is healing up nicely, spraying it twice a day with Vetricyn. All the sudden she has stopped eating, drinking and wont walk now as of 3 days ago. I don't understand what has happen. Is it possible that she also has internal injuries and now she is unable to walk? I'm now feeding her water a couple times a day with a syringe, but she won't eat, not even her most favorite which are blueberries. Any ideas or advice? Thanks!

 

[Argus]

Without pictures I would guess infection. If you have a vet nearby I would take her sooner than later. Good luck to you both!

 

[Wyorp Rock]

Hi @kthurman3400

I'm sorry to hear about Louise.

I agree with @Argus if you have vet care available, that is always best.

Do you have any photos of the wounds?
Louise is 3yrs old - was she still laying egg before the attack?
Are there any odors, pus or red inflamed skin around the wounds?

It's hard to know what's going on with her if the attack was over a week ago - could be infection, nerve damage or internal injures.
Is she pooping? Do the best you can to keep her hydrated, once she is hydrated see if she will take some wet feed.

If you think she may have an infection, then you may need to consider antibiotics.

 

[venymae]

FYI in case you don't know, antibiotics can be purchased at feed stores.

 

[micstrachan]

Can you post pictures? My initial thought is infection setting in, but of course, it could be a number of things. If you have access to live meal worms, that might help in getting her to eat.
I am in agreement that veterinary care would be best if it is an option.
I do think you will need to act fast, since she has taken a downturn.