Putting a chicken down without holding legs?

[CluckNDoodle]

I need assistance please. I have a hen that has some severe leg & foot issues. We loved her, kept her comfortable, and extended her life as long as possible and she's at the point now that I have decided the best thing to do would be to help her to pass. I'm hoping someone can give me an idea of the best way to do this without holding her by the legs considering her situation? I know it's her last moments, but for that very reason I don't want to grab her by her delicate legs in order to use the broomstick method. I know a knife would be the obvious solution but I honestly don't know if I have one sharp enough?? She's thin but her neck still feels strong enough that I don't want to mess up.

Any assistance is welcome. I'm almost at the point where I just want to take her to the vet to do it just so I don't "hurt" her in her final moments. Yes, I realize I'm a complete softy and that's of no help when raising livestock. lol

 

[JacinLarkwell]

You can wrap her in a towel and hold her in your lap to cut her throat. It's messy but quick and you can use a scalpel. Sharp enough that by the time pain would register she would be pretty much gone. I'm sorry I even have to tell you this way, it sucks putting down an animal you care for

 

[CluckNDoodle]

You can wrap her in a towel and hold her in your lap to cut her throat. It's messy but quick and you can use a scalpel. Sharp enough that by the time pain would register she would be pretty much gone.

I do have a scalpel, this may be a better option. Thank you!

 

[21hens-incharge]

I been there.

If you want a vet to do the deed....
Call your vet or several if you need to. Many dog/cat vets CAN do the euthanasia but finding one that WILL may be frustrating.

I had a bird that found her way into my heart. The vet did not charge much to help her in the end.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

I agree, if you don't want to do it and can afford it, I see nothing wrong with taking her in. I have certain animals that while they aren't a typical cat or dog pet, I can't bear to put them down myself when it comes to it and need someone else to do the deed

 

[Lilokieescorter]

I can't really off any ideas except my condolences for you & you Chick. ❤❤

 

[CluckNDoodle]

Thank you everyone

 

[21hens-incharge]

 

[Tre3hugger]

Some shard branch loppers or construction shears do the trick and it is pretty impossible to mess up. Pipe cutters work too. Something like this.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-...88&gclid=CNmTqPznu-oCFaIIiAkd-Z8G7A&gclsrc=ds

 

[CluckNDoodle]

Some shard branch loppers or construction shears do the trick and it is pretty impossible to mess up. Pipe cutters work too. Something like this.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-...88&gclid=CNmTqPznu-oCFaIIiAkd-Z8G7A&gclsrc=ds

I also have several types of these. This is a good option. Thank you!