Caring for the flock with COVID-19

[Kuntry Klucker]

Has anyone given any thought to how they are going to care for their flocks if they get the corona virus?

I was just wondering, this is a worry of mine. If we get really sick or even hospitalized, what are we going to do?

Does anyone else worry about this?

What are your plans?

Thanks.

 

[Wezdin]

Let em free range, they should find all they need this year, not ideal, but doable.

 

[Kiki]

I can't even tell you how many people have tested positive for the coronavirus in my city since the number is constantly changing but I can tell you that only one of these people are in the hospital.
The rest are recovering at home.

Just because someone gets this virus doesn't mean it's an automatic hospital stay.... Many many many people are recovering just fine at home.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I figure between my hubby and I one of us would be well enough to at least drag out food and water for the chickens, and let the dogs out to potty.

 

[centrarchid]

I will be doing the care for them myself if able. My whole family will be quarantined with my wife in a location with very good health care capacity somewhere else. In I fail, then my kids can do most for short-term but a neighbor would likely fill in. If I kick bucket, then chickens will be in deep doo doo.

 

[artsyrobin]

Not just for the virus, but at anytime, you need a backup person that knows your flock and what their needs are. It is very concerning.

 

[Folly's place]

We have family and friends who have pitched in to manage farm chores, as we have for them, when necessary. In this case, we wouldn't have to have close personal contact to make it work, and it should work out.
I hope so!
Mary

 

[Folly's place]

As already mentioned, you need a backup plan anyway, aside from this current crisis. Family, neighbors, or friends, especially someone who's familiar with your birds, for any time you need help.
Typical petsitters aren't so handy when there are horses, cattle, and chickens involved, and the dogs and cats. That's why we have people who have the same critter collection, and can step in to assist, as we have for them.
Mary

 

[Kuntry Klucker]

Let em free range, they should find all they need this year, not ideal, but doable.

I thought about that too. Just open the coops and let them take care of themselves. I hate to say that but it may be the only way for them to have a chance at survival.

 

[centrarchid]

You can plan a ahead to reduce flock size. I just sold seven for $12 each. They sold within 4 hours on Craigslist. Sale is providing enough feed for more than a month and reduces pressure on forage when birds are out free-range.