Friday, April 08, 2016

Cute chicks and one that needs physical therapy


The chicks that hatched last weekend are growing fast. Each one has its own personality already.  Here’s just a few pics of them. These were taken when they were just one day old.


One side of its nose is black and the other side isn’t.



Unfortunately, in every hatch there’s always a weak one.  This particular chick has a splayed leg.  Luckily it’s not severe.  I noticed it when it was around 3 days old.  Its left leg does not have the strength to support itself upright that it sways slightly sideways.  Untreated it may cause more discomfort and will become permanently unable to walk.  So I went search online to find ways to treat this.

At first I tried using a straw with rubber band inserted through it just like this video I took.  But I noticed it prevents the chick from moving its legs closer together because the straw is stiff.


So I tried using a band-aid which is much better because it allows more freedom in the leg movement.  So far he/she is progressing well and is able to walk and run in the brooder.  I just hope that the recovery will go smoothly.

Now I’m becoming a PPT (Poultry Physical Therapist) haha.

On another note here’s a video of my flock while I was feeding them some scrambled eggs and tofu (yes you heard that right). They're always expecting some treats!