Necessary vaccinations

[MizzHen]

Hi, I am new to raising chickens. Over the past ten weeks, I have been raising three Rhode Island Reds and three Plymouth Rocks from pullets. They were med free at purchase so I immediately started them on medicated chick starter to get them going. They've gone through two bags and I just switched them to regular grower feed. I hear a lot about vaccinations and deworming, but have not done any of this as my chickens seem happy and healthy- and honestly, I didn't know any different. Are there certain vaccinations or medications I should be giving my chickens to keep them healthy? Should I have specific medications on hand? I live in Wisconsin and my chickens are partly free ranged, partly kept in a run and at night, kept in a secure coop on our two acre yard. Thank you for the guidance!

 

[Pork Pie]

It seems that from spending a lot time here on BYC that most folks in the States do not vaccinate at all. Yo may wish to contact your state agric department and asking them as they will advise.

Some members don't de-worm at all, others at set times in a year. For sure your chicks don't need de-worming at such a young age. I think around 3-4 months old would be good for their first worming, should you decide to go down that route.

It may be an idea to have some meds on standby for emergencies - these link may be useful -
First Aid kit

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/suggestions-for-a-first-aid-kit.1150128/

http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1149741/topic-of-the-week-emergency-first-aid-preparedness

 

[MizzHen]

This is super helpful! Thank you very much! I feel like I read so much about the scary things that could happen, but I'm not taking enough time to actually prepare in case something does happen. The first aid kit links are excellent resources and super helpful. Thanks for sharing and responding!