Last week I went to my favorite feed store to seek advice on an ill hen. Since I am relatively new to chickens gaining knowledge about them is important. I have only had and started learning about chickens since May of this year when I ordered 12 differ ant kinds of chicks. Well, not counting a hen and rooster who adopted us from our next door neighbors back in April of this year. My goodness there is a lot to learn about them! Had no idea. I also had no idea how much fun having chickens are. Each one has their own personality and quirks. They actually make me laugh on a daily basis. And there are times when all I can do is shake my head. Like when they run away from the Blackbirds! Or when an acorn falls from an Oak tree and they all run over to see if they can eat it.
Anyway back to my feed store visit. I explained to the guy who works there, who raises chickens, about the hens symptoms. He mentioned it sounded like the hen was egg bound and suggested some treatments for her. He said that there was a 50/50 chance of survival. Okay, she has a fifty percent chance of making it through. Good enough odds I tell him. Then I tell him I want to do whatever I can to help her.
Then a guy walks up, overhears the conversation and looks at me and asks me if I am really going to try to save the hen. Um, yes. I tell him I am a believer in when you have any animal in your life, you do the best you can for them. He looks right at me and says, " You know, it's just a chicken."
I thanked the guy at the feed store. He wishes me good luck and if I need anymore help or questions, to either call him or go down there.
So, for the past three days I have been diligently treating Spazzy hen ( she adopted us from our next door neighbor). Lots of research on the Internet. And my sister and a dear friend ( via email) helped out a lot.
Well, sadly this morning when I went out to feed everyone, and checked on Spazzy, she had passed away during the night.
For some reason what that guy said at the feed store stuck in my mind when he said, " It's just a chicken". Well, not to me. She wasn't "just a chicken". Until next time........................
For people like us, Cindy, it is never "just a chicken". I feel sorry for folks who have that kind of attitude - and I feel sorry for any animals in their care. You did such a good job - everything you could, in fact - trying to figure out what was ailing sweet Spazzy. Sometimes, there's just nothing you can do. You are a wonderful chicken mama.
ReplyDeleteThanks Danni. I'm trying to be a good chicken mama. I know I've asked you a ton of questions concerning our feathered friends. Thanks for your help.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry about Spazzy. There is always so much sadness when you open your heart to animals. I know she had a great summer with you and I know you did all you could for her.
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