Very sad to read about Aggie.
...she obviously had a lovely and loving life with you, and a peaceful end.
I joined this forum a few minutes ago looking for answers to my poor sick girl, Vera. She's about 18 months old and has always been free-range with her friend GP (Greedy Pig, as my husband calls her), but the more timid of the two. On Monday she was fine, puttering away in the paddock while I sat and read my book, keeping a watchful eye out for Mr Fox; she sat in her dustbath, enjoying the warmth of the sun for a while, and then it was time for them to go back in their pen. She went straight into her house, which was most unusual, as she'd usually stay out and play until dusk. By Tuesday she was becoming lethargic and not interested in her treats. She has deteriorated through the week, becoming hunched and not sitting down. Her comb is pale pink and as she hasn't laid for about two weeks I thought she was eggbound, however yesterday I read about Sour Crop so proceeded accordingly. She produced a stream of stinky slime; she then ate a little warm mash and drank some fresh water, but has stayed in her house. Oh - I've also noticed her head, on either side of her comb is slightly swollen.
This morning her crop is empty, she's still hunched, and has taken only a couple of her favourite treats.....soft grapes. When I cuddle her she's warm, her eyes are bright, but she's obviously not the Vera I know and love.
One chap who keeps chickens says to put her down, but although I don't like to think of her suffering, I don't want to be too hasty in case it's something simple that can be treated. Has anyone out there got any advice?