Easter Chicks and Ducklings Dangerous
March 15, 2009 by Peggy Rowland
Filed under Pets
Even though children may think live chicks or ducklings are cute, the truth is they’re inappropriate and even dangerous pets for children.
Despite the time a rooster named Sparky attacked me, I like really like chickens. I raised many of them when I was in junior high school, but I lived in the country, on a farm. And, yes, I was once given some dyed blue and pink chickens around Easter. I didn’t realize then how disrespectful the practice is.
As you probably know, chicks and ducklings aren’t disposable Easter pets. The bright coloring of those unfortunate enough to be dyed quickly fades, but the chicks and ducklings grow up. And they produce lots of poop!
But why do I say these cute chicks and ducklings are dangerous?
Chickens and ducks can carry the harmful bacteria known as Salmonella. Children may be exposed to this bacteria by holding a chick or duckling, and that’s bad news since their immune systems are still developing.
According to the CDC, the possibility that a chick or duckling will shed Salmonella is increased by the stress the animals experience during shipping. The CDC goes on to warn that it’s especially dangerous to allow children under 5 to handle chicks or ducklings.
Please give a stuffed toy chick or duckling for Easter, not the real thing. Bright blue stuffed toy chicks are fine!
(Image via flickr)
