Our Disabled Duck

[craftzenmom]

We rescued a duckling from my Aunt's ranch about a month ago, he or she (no sign of gender yet, about 6 weeks old). Duckley was about to become hawk food because his left foot is sort of backwards and cannot support any weight. It seemed to get better for awhile when he was littler but now that he's had a growth spurt we can really see that the foot is not working at all. We've built an outdoor pen with a pond that we've made accessible with bark and small pebbles to make getting around as easy as possible. My concern is whether we need to intervene or just let the foot develop as it is going to on it's own. We do not have a ton of resources to invest in this venture but are willing to keep him/her for the long haul since release may not be an option with this disability. Any ideas on whether or not we need to do anything or just leave it be?
Thanks!

 

[Kevin565]

. I don't have much experience with Duck trauma so I can't give you any advice. However, we will all be here for support and wish your duck a speedy recovery

 

[QuackerJackFarms]

Hey and Welcome! Can you post pics?

 

[Amiga]

Some have had success with splints and nutritional support. Hydrotherapy (swimming) often helps quite a bit.

 

[duckyfromoz]

By 6 weeks old- if it was something the duckling could " grow out of " or recover from- it would have happened by now. There are a number of deformities ducklings can hatch with- and without seeing your little one- it really is hard to know exactly what is going on.
I have cared for a number of disabled ducks and geese- and sometimes the quality of life is such that it is worth all the time and effort and special care to keep them alive- but sadly also there are times when a trip to the vet is needed. Dislocations are common - either in the hock or hip, and I am wondering from your description if the hip is the problem with your little one. Can you describe a little more how much movement the duckling has in the bad leg?

 

[craftzenmom]

Thank you... I am going to try and get some video of him cruising around. The leg basically folds up when he tries to stand on it so he does a lopsided hobble using the good leg to get where he needs to go then sits for awhile and starts all over. He's fine in the water. I will do some more observations and see if I can articulate them better.
Thank you for any insight,

 

[QuackedUp]

I have heard of support/stabilization techniques being used in ducklings. Since he is just 6 weeks his bone may still be malleable enough that some type of external device may help somewhat. I understand not wanting to spend money on a random animal taken in. I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND THAT FEELING! J If I were you, the foot/leg would bug me enough looking at it to the point of consulting a vet. The right vet will respect your wishes and only suggest minimal, basic care options. You always have the right to refuse services too. I do think it is a good idea to go ahead and take him in for a consult though. My concern is that, as he gains weight and grows, his leg may not have the strength or stability to support that weight and thus he could end up a lame duck. I think it is worth a look from a professional. But remember, you are under no obligation to expend funds on this duck and a responsible vet will not try to sell you a Cadillac if all you need is a Vespa.

 

[QuackedUp]

What's the word? Any news?

 

[fletchersmom]

Hi! I too am embarking on raising a disabled duck. I am choosing to raise mine inside because neither of this legs work. Fletcher crawls around on his hocks. Not for everybody but its a choice I'm making. My dogs and cats have excepted him as part of the family so I'm going to make it work. Good luck with yours.