symptoms of possible botulism but not sure

[Ohiogallina]

Two of my barred rocks are displaying leg paralysis and droopy feathers. After reading about the possible causes of botulism (decaying vegetation, mold) I am wondering if I brought this on by turning over some of the dirt in the run about two weeks ago and using it to fill in dirt holes around the edges. there was some old straw in there that looked like it was decaying and the birds ran around like crazy picking in the stuff. Shortly (like hours) after that, one hen got leg paralysis and then another, but not right away. They also had droopy wings/tails, but not droopy necks. The first hen now seems to be recovering, she is perkier, tail and wings good but still stumbling and not able to jump up on a roost yet. Still laying though. Droppings look normal. The second one is now not able to get up, but still eats/drinks. I've isolated both of them in a separate pen and wondering when do I take the first one and put her back with the flock, is there danger in her being with the second, still sick one? Should I be trying medicine? My gut feeling says the first bird will recover but I am worried about both, esp the second. Should I be cleaning out the droppings every day? is there danger in eating any of the eggs from them?

I feel terrible about this, am hoping they both recover, would hate to lose either.
thanks for any advice.

 

[Imp]

Quote:
I'm not experienced with this, but I'll try to help.
I would keep them both isolated till well past getting better. If it isn't botulism you risk bringing it back to the rest.
I don't think they are a danger to each other, both have already been exposed.
Don't know about medicine. I'll take a look and add the link if relevent.
Yes keep the area clean
And I wouldn't eat the eggs when they are sick

Good luck

Imp

http://www.welphatchery.com/poultry_health.asp

 

[tigerrrrrrrlilly]

give the birds epsom salt in their water, it contains magnesium which helps eliminate toxins. Antibiotics should be used too.