One-legged Chicken

[Pumphrey]

Posted before about this chicken. Three weeks ago she had surgery for a leg fracture and still has pins in her leg. I work for the vet who did the surgery and I am going to keep the chicken. I don't believe she has feeling in her foot as her toes are curled and she is reluctant to use it but is trying. She was able to perch on her good leg on a small log. She is able to get up on one leg and hop a shore distance now. Seems to be doing better. I am going to adopt her and bring her home. I am hoping that as she gradually uses It more, she will develop strength in her good leg and move around better. Does anyone have any experience with a one-legged chicken? We have really bonded since I have been caring for her. She is a Barred Rock Hen about 2 years old. When she gets better I am planning on taking on of her flock mates so I will have 2. Thanks for any advice.

 

[Nyhillbillies]

Pumphrey, I have no experience or advice about caring for a chicken with such an issue. May The Creator of Heaven & Earth Bless you in your journey. He commands us to care for the animals, and you are doing just that!

 

[Nyhillbillies]

I asked & was told to let you know: your hen will need gentle physical therapy in the form of ROM (range of motion). Bilaterally, so she gets brain to body contact again. The nerves have been severed through the surgery, and the tendons shortened by the pins.

Use a small dowel or small perch (size of banana), press in such a way that her claws go around it as if perching. Do all gently. Also do the other foot, so she will know what your doing. After a while, it’ll be routine & she’ll know you’re trying to help!

 

[Pumphrey]

Thanks so much! That is a great idea. It was broken quite high up on the leg. She can move it above the break but prefers to keep it tucked.