.png)
Advancing Hen Health: Suprelorin Implant Project
Reproductive illness is a leading cause of mortality in rescued hens, yet a life-saving preventative treatment (Suprelorin implants) remains prohibitively expensive and difficult to access in Canada. Secondhand Stories is launching a multi-phase project to bridge this gap by gathering data from sanctuaries, collaborating with veterinary professionals, and compiling evidence-based research on the efficacy of this intervention. We will leverage these findings to create resources for chicken guardians and veterinarians, ensuring every rescued hen has equitable access to the preventative healthcare necessary for a long life free from suffering.
This project has been made possible by the generous support of the Animal Welfare Foundation of Canada.
01
Data Collection
In the project’s first phase, we will survey sanctuaries across Canada to gather insights on the challenges and barriers to accessing this treatment. We will then connect with veterinarians to learn about their experience, or lack thereof, with Suprelorin implants in chickens. Finally, we’ll initiate outreach with regulatory bodies such as the College of Veterinarians of Ontario and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association to understand existing gaps in veterinary support.
02
Literature Review & Focus Group
In the second phase, we will conduct a rapid review of the literature about Suprelorin’s safety and efficacy, then conduct a small focus group to collect real-life examples of Suprelorin use from sanctuaries. We hope to demonstrate how Suprelorin can serve as a practical, welfare-enhancing intervention for rescued hens and provide guidance to sanctuaries and veterinary clinics about its use.
03
Dissemination & Communication
The final phase will focus on dissemination. A full report will be published, accompanied by a one-page fact sheet for veterinarians. We will host a webinar for sanctuaries and apply to present our findings at relevant conferences. Additionally, we will initiate conversations with Suprelorin’s Canadian distributor and global manufacturer to highlight the unique needs of sanctuary animals. We also plan to explore regulatory pathways—such as connecting with Health Canada’s Veterinary Drugs Directorate—to advocate for improved access to this treatment in sanctuaries. All findings will be shared publicly to ensure transparency and widespread impact.
