#NationalLoveYourPetDay 20th February 2024
We believe that chickens make great pets, and really bring your garden to life. Here are 4 reasons why you should keep chickens…
They are low maintenance – compared to other pets, chickens are easy to care for and not as demanding as other pets. They need a coop and run with protection from predators so they can be safe during the day and night. These, combined with good food, fresh water and some basic enrichment like perches and a dust bath, and they will be quite happy even when you can’t be at home all day. You can even get automatic door openers so you don’t even have to get up early at the weekend to let them out!
Companionship – Chickens are more social than you may expect and they learn very quickly to recognise your face and voice. Teaching them to associate your call with the arrival of tasty treats is a great way to bond with them. Just spending time with chickens is naturally calming and a great way to de-stress at the end of the day.
Chickens are individuals – just like other animals, chickens have their own individual characters. There will always be a bossy hen at the top of the pecking order and some that are more confident and friendly than others. Learning about the individual personalities in your flock makes them fun to be around.
Eggs – it goes without saying that having your own sustainable source of fresh eggs is a huge benefit to keeping chickens. If you have children it is a great way to teach them where their food comes from, and how caring for an animal gives its rewards. Everyone knows that happy chickens lay tastier eggs!
Chicken Maths is real! – Everyone will tell you that chickens are addictive! You might start with 3, but soon it will be 5…and maybe room for a few more little ones?!..Always choose a larger run and coop than you think you need. The more space they have the better, and if you do decide to add a couple more you can do so.
As with all animals it is important to understand their basic health needs and the equipment required to look after them properly. For more information check out the Poultry Pack created by 12 British chicken-loving companies.