Putting down a baby chick

[Swilso3]

It's painful and I am so sorry you have to go through this. My preferred method is to use a sharp object to remove the head. I was always worried I wouldn't get the other methods done just right and the poor thing would suffer. Hang in there

Thank you!

 

[Dean126]

See below

 

[Dean126]

I had to do this for the first time too, to two chicks. The first time I used a pellet gun through the head as it was pretty hands off the second a knife to cut the head off. Both worked fine. Its a day ruiner no matter which way you do it... but sooner is better than later

 

[Trisseh]

I prefer decapitation for small/young birds as it’s easiest to grip and ensure it’s done quickly and properly - I have a pair of Gerber game shears which work extremely well and have a little notch so they can’t flip their head out as I cut. I prefer manual cervical dislocation for older birds. But it really depends on what you’re comfortable with and what is within your abilities. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with having your vet do it if you don’t think you can. or if you have a friend that can help walk you through it, sometimes that helps too.

I will point out that the most important points to consider when euthanizing an animal are:
1. Speed to unconsciousness/insensibility
2. Level of pain (if any) experienced
3. Comfort For/effect on person performing the euthanasia

if a particular method makes you squirm, but is the fastest way to unconsciousness with the least level of pain, is it better than a method that takes longer and is more painful, but removes you further from the act? Taking the extra time to ensure the bird (and you!) are calm is important. Also take into account local/country laws on what is acceptable. Here in Canada, the most often used and as far as I know only approved methods for the layman are decapitation and cervical dislocation for birds that are awake. Abattoirs have different regulations and methods but they aren’t useful to the backyard poultry owner.