Vets to euthanize all 4-H chickens at Sanilac fair after virus hits

[audy5000g]

Your thoughts? Michigan

http://www.freep.com/story/news/loc...ckens-sanilac-fair-after-virus-hits/89403424/

 

[Wyorp Rock]

These kids made a mature, ethical and well informed decision to have their birds euthanized. I'm sure it was difficult to make, but in this particular case, the risk of spreading a contagious disease was too high.

The possibility of carrying/spreading ILT, not only to their own flocks at home, but the potential of visitors carrying it on their clothes, shoes, etc. was very real.

While ILT can be "managed" and each bird can be treated and possibly recover-they are still carriers. Any birds exposed/housed with or near infected birds, as a general rule are considered carriers as well.

Having this disease in your flock would mean you will need to keep a closed flock or all in/all out operation. You couldn't show poultry, sell/give away chicks, hatching egg, started pullets, etc.

For 4-H, FFA, or any backyard chicken keeper who has the even faintest idea of raising chickens for show, profit or to give away, this would be damaging, not only to their reputation, but emotionally and monetarily as well.


Just my thoughts - W.R.

 

[audy5000g]

Thanks