Fran has deep and penetrating wounds along her neck and back and we held her in the barn and applied Corona Cream, ointment we keep on hand for animal injuries and cuts. She is in shock, as happens to chickens when they are frightened, and I don’t know if she will survive. The next day or so will tell.

As always with me, I am compelled to think about the psychological space between people and animals. We were shocked by the fox attack, a perfectly common thing in rural life, and delighted to find the chickens alive, one by one. I am fond of Meg, but I do not really love chickens the way I love dogs or donkeys or cats. Still, I see this creature struggling to live, and I am touched, as it challenges the humanity in me, keeping it alive with care and within reason. What is reason? We don’t take chickens to vets or spend significant amounts of money on their medical care. It is inappropriate to me. If Fran does not recover, we will find a quick humane way to put her down. Animals are not all alike for me.

I have grown fond of the chickens, and love photographing them. I am especially fond of Meg. But perspective is important. I will share the process, keep you posted. I am working to figure out what I feel for a chicken. In the barn, holding her while Maria applied the ointment, I felt a lot.