What to do with this foot?

[ShannonR]

If you're considering amputating the dead bits of toe (which may be a good idea), I'd start first by seeing if she has any sensation at all in those areas. Get a (sterilized via heat or alcohol) needle and poke the black areas. If she doesn't respond to a prick, try deeper. If she doesn't respond to it at all, those areas are definitely dead and should probably be removed, careful not to cut into the fleshy bits. They'll probably fall off on their own anyway, but if they're definitely dead and have no sensation, removing them would probably be good.

If the toe is bleeding, that indicates at least some degree of blood circulation, which would lead me to believe it's not totally dead at this point

 

[casportpony]

If the toe is bleeding, that indicates at least some degree of blood circulation, which would lead me to believe it's not totally dead at this point

It's been my experience that sometimes, even if the toe is still alive, that is better to amputate. If the OP can get pictures of the feet with all of the debris removed I can mark up a picture and explain why.

 

[Kris5902]

Very scary prospect... I’ve elastrated mastitis once in an ewe, it was pussie and gross, so I’m going to proceed slowly. She has made it this far for I don’t know how long... I will err on the side of caution and post as many pics as possible so those with more knowledge can help me through this.

Again, huge shout out to @casportpony @Eggcessive @MissChick@dee @Wyorp Rock and everyone else who is helping me through this mess. These chicken and I cannot thank you enough for your help and experience

 

[Kris5902]

Will update pics tomorrow after our next session... also working on more housing. Hubby is making a town trip for his bloodwork tomorrow and I’m going to get more materials. Tomorrow I will hopefully also tackle the rest of the flock in that coop, and discuss long term solutions with our farm manager (my aunt in law) as she is back, and that lessens my animal feeding chores...

 

[Kris5902]

Tomorrow I will also bring the kittie nail trimmers to the coop... I’ve been thinking about this for a while, but was scared to do it... I really do care about the birds and I know how inexperienced I am at this. Thanks for all the help and links.

I am almost now brave/humble enough to post pics of the beaks that were already “trimmed” when I picked up the last batch of “egg layers” for your help. (Their lower mandible is very overshot, think major underbite) “commercial” chickens are sad girls... so many issues, and I just want to make their lives the best they can be. I cannot say thank you often enough.

 

[aart]

Tomorrow I will also bring the kittie nail trimmers to the coop

Guillotine cutter or rotary grinder?
I found a coarse sander drum on a dremel tool is best for avoiding massive bleeds on dog nails. Corn starch works good as blood stop
Best of cLuck!

 

[Hardknockshomestead]

Wow, you guys. I have been reading the thread. There are so many people from all over that are concerned about this one little chicken. From the op's reaching out for help, to members responding with helpful suggestions, it is touching to see all of you wanting to make this little bird's life better!
My faith in humanity is sometimes shaken, but this morning is restored!

 

[aart]

From the op's reaching out for help, to members responding with helpful suggestions

That's what forums are about....people who know helping people who want to learn.

 

[Kris5902]

Guillotine cutter or rotary grinder?
I found a coarse sander drum on a dremel tool is best for avoiding massive bleeds on dog nails. Corn starch works good as blood stop
Best of cLuck!

Guillotine... I’m going to just take a little off to start, I have a styptic pencil somewhere here but I can’t find it... so thanks for the cornstarch suggestion! I’m not too worried about that when I do my cats nails, but this is my first trim on a chicken so I’d rather be safe!

 

[coach723]

Just take off a little at a time, and work towards getting them trimmed enough. You can always take more off, can't put it back! I've accidentally gotten them too short a few times, pressure and corn starch got it stopped. You are doing a great job, the birds are lucky to have you. We all probably at one time or another were in a situation (or two, or three, or......) where we just needed some advice and encouragement, this place is great for that! Glad she's perked up some already, she has to feel better just getting most of that gunk off!