'Spirit' the Cockerel!

I was surprised yesterday to be presented with a chicken at work for an examination!
My consult list just said 'lame chicken'! The owners came in with a large carry cage and inside was a beautiful cockerel! He was indeed lame, probably after having a fight with the other cockerel over their harem of female chickens! Being well handled he didn't attempt to peck me (thankfully) but just crowed at me. He was otherwise in very good condition and clearly well cared for. 'Spirit' the chicken had a swollen and painful knee. After phoning the drug manufacturer for a dose, I was able to give him some anti-inflammatory pain medication to go home with and also prescribed a good rest.
Hopefully 'Spirit' will be fine.
There is never a dull day as a vet!
Seeing this beautiful animal reminded me how lovely chickens actually are. If you have never had the pleasure of seeing a live chicken perhaps you could visit a local 'petting zoo' or farm and take a look. They have chickens at Paradise Wildlife Park who are allowed to roam about... very funny!