Trouble walking

[ladycluck333]

My dominique is probably 7 years old or so. She has not laid in 2-3 years, Her comb has been a little pale since she stopped laying. About 6 months ago the very tip of her comb became very pale and she started being less active. I just attributed that to her being so old.... The past 2 days she has been walking really slow with a wider stance than usual and she is having problems with balance. She is loosing weight but continues to eat and poop normally. All the other girls appear happy and healthy. Is she sick or old? Should i separate her from the flock? Have any of you kept your chickens through their golden years? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you

 

[Eggcessive]

Does she waddle or walk like a penguin, or walk in a more upright position? Is how lower belly full as if she may have fluid or something else in there? Many chickens end up with laying problems such as internal laying or egg yolk peritonitis. It occurs more in high production breeds from hatcheries. Dominiques aren't quite as likely to have that, but I am no expert. Hens can certainly live past seven, and even lay eggs, but she could just be showing her age.