So I had some sickness in my small flock this summer. Just a couple of runny noses and some sneezing. I am down to just 5 hens. No one died from disease. I ended up with 4 roosters we butchered and one sweet hen died from a tragic stupid accident.(ugh teenager!) I am wondering if there is a way I can get my flock tested for all these diseases to see if I should maintain a closed flock. I live in Michigan and was wondering if I could just take fecal samples and send them somewhere? Any one have ideas?
So sorry about your losses. Fecal tests are only for parasites. There is no one test for all diseases. Nor one blood test for all diseases. Lab testing has to be directed at special tests for specific symptoms. IMO keep them separated from the others until you can find out what you are dealing with. If you have a local vet who treats poultry call them for advice. If not, try contacting your county agent to help you connect with poultry experts in the area. But since none have died and if the respiratory issues have resolved, it may not be anything serious? Hopefully those with more experience will offer you their opinions here.
