Compassionate Veterinary Care for Backyard Poultry
Backyard poultry have become a beloved part of many Annapolis-area households, and they deserve the same thoughtful, knowledgeable care as any other family pet. Bay Ridge Animal Hospital is proud to provide veterinary care for poultry species, offering compassionate, individualized medical care for these often-underserved patients.
Poultry Species We Treat
- Chickens
- Ducks
- Geese
- Turkeys
- Peafowl (Peacocks & Peahens)
- Quail
- Pheasants
Please note: We do not see companion birds or exotic avian species such as parrots, parakeets, cockatiels, conures, macaws, cockatoos, finches, or canaries.
Whether you have a few backyard hens or keep poultry as pets or for exhibition, Dr. Wilkinson can help your birds live healthier, longer lives. All appointments are performed at our hospital—we do not offer flock or on-site farm visits.
Wellness & New Bird Exams
Adding new birds to your property or bringing home chicks? A wellness exam helps establish a health baseline, identify concerns early, and provides guidance on quarantine and introducing new birds safely. We'll evaluate body condition, feather quality, respiratory health, and overall wellness while discussing husbandry recommendations appropriate for your birds' age, breed, and intended use.
Sick Bird & Injury Visits
Poultry are experts at hiding illness, so changes in appetite, egg production, mobility, breathing, or behavior should never be ignored. We diagnose and treat many common medical conditions, including:
- Respiratory infections
- Egg-laying disorders (such as egg binding and prolapse)
- Bumblefoot
- Wounds and predator-related injuries
- Sour crop and crop impaction
While we do not routinely perform surgical procedures, we can evaluate your bird and recommend appropriate treatment or referral when surgery is necessary.
Parasite Control & Fecal Testing
Internal and external parasites are among the most common health concerns in backyard poultry. We offer fecal testing to screen for intestinal parasites, including worms and coccidia, along with recommendations for safe, effective parasite control and treatment for mites and lice.
Nutrition & Husbandry Guidance
Proper nutrition and management are the foundation of good poultry health. We're happy to provide recommendations on:
- Balanced diets and feeding
- Supplements when appropriate
- Coop sanitation and hygiene
- Seasonal care
- Environmental management
Good husbandry goes a long way toward preventing illness before it starts.
Biosecurity & Disease Prevention
With highly pathogenic avian influenza and other contagious poultry diseases remaining a concern, good biosecurity is more important than ever. We can provide guidance on reducing disease risk through proper quarantine procedures, limiting contact with wild birds, and recognizing early signs of illness that require veterinary attention.
Compassionate End-of-Life Care
When a beloved bird's quality of life declines, we're here to provide honest guidance and compassionate support. When appropriate, we offer humane euthanasia to help prevent unnecessary suffering.
Why Bay Ridge Animal Hospital?
Finding veterinary care for poultry can be challenging. Dr. Wilkinson has experience treating a variety of poultry species and is committed to providing the same high standard of medical care we offer our canine and feline patients.
Please note that our poultry services are provided by appointment at our hospital. We do not offer flock health consultations, farm calls, or on-site visits.
Ready to schedule an appointment for your bird? Call us at 410-268-6994 or request an appointment online. We're conveniently located in the shopping center between Bay Ridge Avenue and Forest Drive in Annapolis.
