Showing?

[chickenfinch]

I am interested in showing one of my chickens, and was wondering a few things about showing. Can chickens get diseases from poultry showing? And what is the standard for barred rocks? Thanks!

 

[FarmersHatchery]

There is always a risk that a chicken can catch a disease when you take it anywhere. They can even catch a disease if you go somewhere where chickens are (without any of your birds) and return home, since diseases can hitch a ride on your clothes and spread to your birds. However, that being said, it is very unlikely. People who show animals tend to take good care of their animals so they rarely get sick. Likewise, if they do have a sick animal they know better to take it to a show where they can get other animals sick. Also, almost all shows have a vet on site to watch birds as they enter the show area to watch for sick looking birds(even a bird with lice can get removed from the show). They also do blood tests for a certain disease there too. Overall, the risk is very low (very very low), but there. All in all, I wouldn't be too concerned about the risk, especially if it would stop you from showing. Showing animals is a very fun and worthwhile hobby that is very rewarding.

On the barred rock standard...I don't raise barred rocks, so I can't help you on that. I know if you are really interested in showing, you can buy the Standard of Perfection book from the American Poultry Association. It has all breed Standards in it, if you can afford the $60 price tag. Here is a link to their website store: http://www.amerpoultryassn.com/APA_ShoppingMall3.htm

Otherwise, you just need to talk to people who raise and show barred rocks. You should also do some of your own research online and see what you can find.


Good luck and have fun showing!!