Will this cause splayed legs?

[ekofke201]

I fell over a week ago... which left both of my arms in slings... which means that the 5 week old chicks and 3-4 week old ducklings are still inside because I can't paint the coops! Bummer, since I was planning on putting them out last week since they are my firsts.

Finally, my question. Since the ducklings are suddenly super gross and messy I have been giving them a break from their brooder in the bathtub (no water for swimming) for a couple of hours each afternoon. No more than 3 hours at a time. And only when I am home to keep an eye on them.

Can I leave them in there a bit longer? I would love to since they have more room and it is so much easier to clean. I was worried that the tub was too slippery for them and they would develop a problem with their legs. Thoughts?

Thanks!

 

[Amiga]

You are right. A slippery tub is an invitation to splay leg. Not a guarantee, but a risk.

You could toss a big towel in there, and have someone who owes you favors rinse and wash it out for you!

And oh, wow, sad to read about your injury. Forgive me, I often focus on the ducks first, and fail to acknowledge the human. One of my shortcomings.

 

[duckyfromoz]

Both arms! My goodness that must leave you in a very difficult situation. Splay leg is much more common in younger ducklings and chicks- especially the just hatched when their bones are still so soft. There is still a risk with older ones- but it is less likely to happen now at this age.

I have some rubber stickies in the bathtub made for children to stop slipping- maybe some of those could be just as useful to use for your ducklings.