Letter to the Editor Courrier des lecteurs Backyard laying hens — A comment Dear Editor, A small backyard flock of laying hens in a British Columbia subdivision is beneficial, enabling the owners and children to appreciate and learn from this hobby. The owners need to know that, with any class of livestock, there is going to be “normal mortality” that is often age-related. There can be diseases of reproductive, respiratory, skeletal systems, and foot pads that do not always respond to treatment, with euthanasia being the
kindest act. Individuals can be kept as “pets,” but replacing the losses with chicks or pullets, with proper biosecurity, would maintain the flock size, egg production, and be the easiest for acceptance by the family.
Dr. Tom Hutchison Roblin, Ontario
Constructive and professional comments made in the spirit of intellectual debate are welcomed by the Editor. Writers are expected to be respectful of others and to ensure that letters are considerate and courteous. The Editor reserves the right to remove comments deemed to be inflammatory or disrespectful.
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kindest act. Individuals can be kept as “pets,” but replacing the losses with chicks or pullets, with proper biosecurity, would maintain the flock size, egg production, and be the easiest for acceptance by the family.
Dr. Tom Hutchison Roblin, Ontario
Constructive and professional comments made in the spirit of intellectual debate are welcomed by the Editor. Writers are expected to be respectful of others and to ensure that letters are considerate and courteous. The Editor reserves the right to remove comments deemed to be inflammatory or disrespectful.
CVJ / VOL 55 / APRIL 2014
297
