Worming the Chicks

[FutureFarmGal]

I have read a million different opinions about wormimg chickens, and I am stumped about what I should do. This is my first flock, and they're almost 16 weeks old. They don't free range for now because I don't have a fence yet and I don't want the neighborhood dogs to eat them, so they just have a nice big run. Anyway, what is your opinion on worming? When should I start to worm them? How often should it be done, and with what products? Thanks in advance for the answers.

 

[Eggcessive]

I would advise worming them, since they are not getting out on fresh grass to free range. Twice a year is the usual, but 4 times a year may be needed in tropical conditions. In the US, Valbazen or SafeGuard Liquid Goat Wormer are used to treat all worms. Piperazine or Wazine will only treat roundworms. Other wormers such as Flubenvet, Levamisole, and Wormout Gel are used more in other countries outside of the US. You will want to keep droppings picked up, and your bedding clean and dry to keep re-infestation occuring. Here are some good articles to read with differing approachs to help you make up your own mind:
http://www.thepoultrysite.com/articles/1256/worms-in-freerange-hens/
http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/04/answers-from-chicken-vet-on-worming.html
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1090991/worms-and-worming-warning-graphic-pictures-and-videos
https://poultrykeeper.com/general-chickens/worming-chickens/
http://www.flytesofancy.co.uk/chickenhouses/Worming_Poultry.html

 

[FutureFarmGal]

Thank you so much Eggcessive! That helps a lot.

 

[Eggcessive]

You are welcome. Glad to help.