George

Poor George (Zach's rooster) is not enjoying winter any more than I am these days. He seems to have gotten some frostbite on his comb. Who knew? Apparently lots of people, because when I googled "rooster comb frostbite" there were far too many responses. Entire forums of people discussing their flocks of fowl.

So I read up on his condition, which might be frostbite, or might be fungus from being cooped up on really cold days. When Zach found out a too dirty coop might be causing fungus, he went right out to clean and put down fresh hay. I was really quite impressed. Then he brought George into the barn (the boy's room, was once a barn but now is the back bedroom), and I held him while Zach applied some triple antibiotic ointment to the rooster's comb and wattle. George seemed to know that Zach was helping, he did not even flinch the whole time.

One forum recommended feeding your flock hot mash for breakfast on these cold winter mornings; Zach already has plans to do so tomorrow first thing. I'd say he needs to get a hobby, but apparently he has one....or five...