u/Greigebananas

Hi
My silkie has fainted once Three weeks ago for a few seconds on the way from the coop to the run.

He looked fine, then it happened again three days ago. Then he started being less active and unsteady on his feet. Today i had to carry him out to the run, he can fall forward a few steps.

I have an appointment with the one chicken specialist in my region tomorrow. I asked that they look him over, because it's not guaranteed Marek's. It is technically a euthanasia appointment.

His eyes are Normal and both legs are equally affected, it seems to be the whole body. Except he seems in ok spirits (enjoyed some sweetcorn)

He's very thin but I've gone through more feed this summer than usual. Same feed as usual.

No other hens are unwell. He is the only silkie.

I hate that it's unknown, i don't want to euthanize him if there's hope he will be better, but i can't live with myself if he suffers over the weekend and dies in pain from Marek's.

I gave him aspirin two days ago with no effect, b vitamins. Today i gave him ivermectin but the vet is tomorrow

Vet said it's most likely Marek's (just statistically, she's not examined him) it is endemic here and he's an unvaccinated silkie.

Sorry for the long post im so devastated. Any advice or experiences appreciated

I almost wish he was more ill, it would make the choice easier. He can hobble around a few steps, and seems quite alert and grooms himself.

Asking here because it's a bit more niche than the usual dog training subreddits.

I am starting silky leash training for my dog on the collar. I enjoy her having various pretty collars and don't have any need for her to pull in them.

She doesn't have a pulling problem really, i just want basically no pressure on the neck if she's wearing a collar. So far we are doing great at silky leash she will follow the pressure even if it is just the slightest (we are still practicing indoors)

However i like her to pull or at least have tension in the leash during tracking, i also use a pulling harness for jogging and some hikes. Or for building drive, i might want to hold her back in her harness and release to a ball.

For collars I'm thinking more short potty breaks, pet friendly patios, busy spaces in town where she is usually in a casual heel.

Are there any people who have acheived this?
It will finally be useful that dogs are terrible at generalizing, I'm hoping.

The article I'm working from doesn't really mention training it for only one tool. Any tips on differentiation appreciated🙏

My dogs heel was taught with a jumble of different techniques, including some luring. However there's always room to improve and get it more precise and flashy. When i search most stuff is either how to initially teach a heel, or it's using luring.

Are there any ideas on how to do it without?

I am going to try doing a zen bowl inspired drill,

having a treat in the bowl nearby, walking past it in heel it and then sending her to it for the reward. I'm thinking this is good for keeping motivation up even if there's no food on you, and some good intensity whilst waiting for the release word.

Anything like that is welcome please! I'm not saying luring is bad, it's just that's what is easiest to find online or even in person and it's nice to vary a bit!