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I had one of the worst scenarios that could happen to a breeder. I had two baby bird emergencies at two different times this weekend.  I had three 2.5wk old babies.  Well, this weekend two developed an infection and had crop problems at two different times, or showed the signs at two different times.  So I had to go out to the pet hospital twice as an emergency.  The first one died and then I brought the other two to the hospital. Two nights ago I was able to take them home (after paying EXORBITANT fees, in addition to the understandable fees) and have to keep an eye on them, feed them and give them antibiotics.  Even though I am not keeping them, I could not let anything happen to them.  Of all the time I have bred birds, I have never had this problem.  It is the fact that they are very young and in close proximity to each other.  So if one some how one gets an infection, chances are high the others could as well.  As of now, they seem to be doing fine and will have a checkup in a few days.  Through all this, the mother thought she lost her clutch so she has laid new eggs.  After this final clutch, I am going to either separate the birds or look into bird contraception .

I am also suppose to give the birds a probiotic (like Bene-bac). I totally understand the purpose of replacing and enhancing the natural flora especially when they are on antibiotics. I live in Boston and totally depend on Mass Transit. The problem is there are no pet stores in a reasonable distance where I could go and come back without worrying I am gone to long from the babies. I know lactose is bad for birds, but do you think I could give lactose free yogurt which contains probiotics? I could also add bakers yeast as I know Saccharomyces is a needed component.

Thank you very much,

Alex

I think this is a question best directed to your vet, however I will add this; The formula you are feeding the chicks now does contain various dried bacilli that is necessary for proper flora, (or should) however I don't know if that would be enough to offset the antibiotics you are providing. I'd also like to think if your vet prescribed the antibiotic and did not specify adding Bene-bac, then it might not be needed since they are on formula. I don't think I would add bakers yeast, as that could overload their systems and cause a yeast infection. As for the yogurt, I don't think it would hurt, but I'm not a vet, and can't answer with authority on that subject. Out of curiosity, what was the vet's diagnosis, and what antibiotic did he start them on?

Hope your chicks make it...

Check with your vet but I feed my birds yogurt. Do you know what caused the infection? good to know so you can keep it from happening again. Hope your babies make it.

With people, the healthy bacteria is acidophillus (check spelling) and can be found in health food store in capsules and liquid (in the refridgerated section).

Again, check with a vet about the amounts - I would think on drop would be more then enough for the whole clutch.

It is also present on grains like millet. You can "make" it yourself with human grade millet by soaking in water - it's called rejuvalac (definately check spelling) ask someone in the health food store.

Good luck

I just wanted to add that I recently had a misshap with a baby bird who is still handfeeding as well. He is on antibiotics like your birds but the vet never mentioned anything about probiotics being given. I would assume, like the others have stated that since they are still handfeeding, there may not be a need for probiotics. Good luck with them!

tiels can be pretty lactose intollerant, so careful with the yogurt. I concurr... talk to your vet.