We have 3 chickens, 1 is adored by ds more than the others.. A few weeks ago we noticed her to be quite lethargic and unwell, and took her to the vet. Unfortunately I didn't have a chance to talk to talk to ds about the chance of her dying, so when it was an abscess in mouth (and nothing contagious), we decided to try medication, rather than have her put to sleep. She got better for a week after medication ended, but has gone down hill again. I really think if she makes it to Monday, she won't be coming home from the vet. Ds is devastated..

I have told him that it is not his fault, and it is more than likely his love for her that has kept her alive so long (they sit outside together and watch the clouds).. But how do I help him? We have been fortunate enough to have not had any loved ones pass away since we had children, so they have never really been exposed to death.