[jackie]

i have got 7 hens at the moment but am thinking of getting more - theyre so addictive! i was wondering about quarantining them but when i rang the farm where i got the original ones from they said if i bought more from them i wouldnt have to quarantine them. just put the new ones in at night so they all woke up together the next morning. any opinions on this?

[joyfull]

Ideally any new birds need quarantining for a couple of weeks just in case they have picked something up no matter where you get them from. 

[Squibbs]

How long ago did you get the ones you already have? If it was in the last month or so and the new ones are from the same place I wouldnt worry, otherwise I would always quarantine  - I've learnt from experience that you rush in with new stock at your peril.

 

[jackie]

i got the last lot in november so it sounds like i should quarantine then. thanks for your advice

[joyfull]

best to be safe than sorry. Several on here have taken the gamble and lost some of their favourite birds as a consequence 
Good luck with the new girls though 

[Sassy]

Personally I would always quarantine

[Jeanette]

Quarantine every time.

[jackie]

will take your advice. how long should they be quarantined for

[joyfull]

I do a couple of weeks just to give any infection that may be incubating time to show - but others may do for less.