Swollen crop, dead chook

[BrettV]

So I'm totally bummed today as I had to clear a swollen/blocked crop this morning by squeezing out the fermenting gunk, and in the process I accidentally suffocated the poor girl. Was a very disappointing start to the day.

For future reference is there a particular technique I should use? If I killed another Chook doing this I would really be upset with myself!

Thanks
Brett

 

[Sarevan]

I am sorry for your loss. For impacted crop I use water and a feeding tube to get it into the crop. Then massage the heck out of it to break it up. I don't try to vomit them or try to work anything back up. I had a hen I nearly drowned trying that, so don't feel bad we all make mistakes.

Here in the forums are different ways to handle impacted crop, and sour crop. I would do a search and read them, the more recent ones in last few months. There is lots of information here and reading to see how others have handled problems gives you confidence.

 

[theoldchick]

The best way to treat an impacted crop is lavage or surgical removal of the contents. If you do use lavage make sure the water temp is correct. Too hot and you've burned the crop. Too cold and the chicken may go in shock. Remember, you are not alone in having a chicken die while trying to help it. Sometimes the stress of just being picked up is too much.

Sorry for your loss.

 

[BrettV]

Thanks for the feedback, I'll look up some of those posts.

I'm not distraught but its disappointing that when I make a mistake a chook dies. Expensive lesson!