Peaches Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 Some of you may know I've had a mixed bag of time with my rescue hens, but Henrietta was the first one to die naturally in her bed. I'm so pleased that I've finally managed to see one hen through from rescue to a natural death. I've lost 3 to foxes, 1 to a dog (my fault), 2 to egg peritonitis and 1 to a heartache/shock. Henrietta was bandy legged and very slow towards the end but even yesterday evening she tucked into grapes and seed with gusto. I've made loads and loads of mistakes while keeping hens. I think maybe the image portrayed of taking on rescue hens is more glamorous and less arduous than the reality. I've found it very hard work and heartbreaking at times - like last week when my friend's dog killed Bodie (and not fast ). I've also found it uplifting and life affirming. Suzy Q and Jackie O are still alive and well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egghead68 Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 So sorry for your loss. Rest in peace, Henrietta. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WitchHazel Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 Sorry to hear about Henrietta. Whatever has happened to your other battery girls, don't forget that they were lucky to have had time out of ther cages in a caring home. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tweety Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 I know just what you mean - somehow it is not quite as bad when they die naturally. I'm sorry that Henrietta has died, but she was a lucky girl to have had her second chance with you and to pass away in her sleep. Keep up the good work with the ex batts - it can be heartbreaking, but it is worth it Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bramble Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 Sleep tight little Henrietta, I am sure you enjoyed your retirement x Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peaches Posted October 7, 2011 Author Share Posted October 7, 2011 Thank you for your kind words. I'm feeling quite teary for Henrietta, and I really hope I did give her a good life. We have a large garden and they roam freely most of the time. Losing hens is heartbreaking. It's more bearable having a community of people who understand. Thanks. Just edited to say that Suzy Q and Jackie O are sat companionably basking in the sun. They look very happy .... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mercedes55 Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 So sorry to hear about poor little Henrietta. I do agree that the reality of keeping hens is far more arduous, both mentally and physically, than we expect when we take them on, but very worthwhile all the same. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Angie Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 I am so sorry for Henrietta , i'm sure she has had a wonderful life with you and loved every fr minute. I have lost two this year, one in the harsh Jan snow and cold the other died in her sleep with no sign of illness the vet could't find anything wrong with her. I thoroughly agree that keeping hens is more arduous than we expect it to be. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
memphisto Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 So sorry to hear Henrietta passed away I am sure she had a lovely retirement and enjoyed being one of your girls and enjoying the life you gave her. Take some comfort in that she died comfortably and peacefully in her home. Thinking of you xx Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
counturchickens Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 We lost ex batt daisy a little while ago, in her sleep. It is still upsetting, but at least the end was peaceful. As others have said without you the girls wouldn't have had a retirement at all. Take care x Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sandyhas3chucks Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 So sorry to hear about poor little Henrietta. I do agree that the reality of keeping hens is far more arduous, both mentally and physically, than we expect when we take them on, but very worthwhile all the same. yes I agree and Happy forever free ranging Henrietta x Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sparkysmum Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 So sorry to hear about little Henrietta RIP Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Plum Posted October 7, 2011 Share Posted October 7, 2011 So sorry Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
