In 2023 the UK saw a major bird flu outbreak among poultry and captive birds in both commercial farms and residential backyard flocks. Thankfully, the UK does not currently have any reported outbreaks of bird flu in poultry or other captive birds, though it is still present in the wild bird … [Read more...] about New poultry registration regulations
Assessing your pet’s quality of life
All owners want their pets to have the best quality of life possible; we want them to be happy, healthy and comfortable. If you are caring for an old, severely ill or terminally ill pet you may be worrying about whether their quality of life has declined and if the time has come to say goodbye. … [Read more...] about Assessing your pet’s quality of life
Antimicrobial resistance
What are antimicrobials? 'Antimicrobials' include antibiotics, antiparasitics, antivirals and antifungals and are essential to the treatment and prevention of the spread of diseases in both animals and humans. What is antimicrobial resistance (AMR)? Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is the ability … [Read more...] about Antimicrobial resistance
Saying Goodbye
Making the decision to say goodbye to your beloved pet is one of the most difficult decisions you will make as an owner. Euthanasia or having a pet 'put to sleep' is often the kindest way to give your pet a dignified passing, without pain and suffering. When is the right time to euthanise my … [Read more...] about Saying Goodbye
Current UK Bird Flu Outbreak – Updated 18/04/2023
Due to the current UK bird flu outbreak we will be asking any chicken owners who wish to book an appointment some general screening questions. If we suspect that your chicken may be suffering from bird flu we will direct you to the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) via Defra Rural Services … [Read more...] about Current UK Bird Flu Outbreak – Updated 18/04/2023
Common Chicken Problems
Moulting and Feather Damage Chickens go through a natural moulting process after summer as the weather becomes colder. Your birds won't look their normal beautiful selves for a few weeks! Birds will lose their glossy feathers from the head down and they will be replaced by new pinfeathers. This … [Read more...] about Common Chicken Problems
Parasites
Worms Back garden flocks can be affected by parasitic worms just as much as larger scale commercial farmers. Intestinal worms such as roundworms, hair worms and caecal worms can cause weight loss and reduced appetite, dullness, diarrhea and a drop in egg production however some birds may show no … [Read more...] about Parasites
Setting Up A Chicken Coop
Back-garden chicken coops are increasingly popular, particularly in Sussex and we see quite a few chickens every year at Heathfield Vets. Whether they are kept as pets or as an egg producing flock, chickens can make a wonderful addition to your family. If you are thinking of welcoming some … [Read more...] about Setting Up A Chicken Coop
Feeding Your Chickens
What we feed our animals affects their health and happiness, just like dogs and cats, chickens can suffer if they don't get the right nutrients in their diets or eat too many treats. It's important to keep feeders clean and to always provide fresh, clean water for your flock. Pellet Food A good … [Read more...] about Feeding Your Chickens
The Chicken M.O.T – Is Your Hen In Good Health?
Chickens make wonderful pets with the added bonus of tasty eggs throughout the year too! Keeping your chickens healthy and happy is a big responsibility and if you're a new keeper of a back garden flock, it can be daunting to know when something is wrong or not. Your birds should be checked … [Read more...] about The Chicken M.O.T – Is Your Hen In Good Health?
