Episode 78 - Holidaying with Chickens

Holidaying with Chickens If you’re a chicken owner planning to go away for a weekend, you need to ensure your chickens are well-cared for during your absence. Here’s a complete list of considerations:    Feeding    - Automatic Feeder: Invest in an automatic feeder that can hold enough feed for the duration of your absence. Ensure it’s filled with enough feed for the weekend.    - Feed Supply: Double-check the feed supply to make sure there’s more than enough to cover the time you’ll be gone.    Watering    - Automatic Waterer: Use an automatic waterer or a large water container to ensure a continuous supply of fresh water.    - Water Capacity: Ensure the waterer has sufficient capacity to last the entire weekend.    - Backup Water Source: Consider setting up a secondary water source in case the primary one fails.    Shelter & Security    - Secure Coop: Make sure the chicken coop is securely locked to protect against predators. Check that there are no gaps or weak spots where predators could get in.    - Weather Protection: Ensure the coop is protected from the elements, with adequate ventilation and no leaks. If extreme weather is expected, take additional precautions.    Egg Collection    - Nest Boxes: Ensure nest boxes are clean and ready to collect eggs. If you’ll be gone for a short period, it’s usually fine to leave eggs in the nest boxes until you return, but extended periods may require someone to collect eggs daily to prevent breakage or egg-eating. Rollaway boxes work best for this, as the egg will roll to the back and not be broken by the next lady coming in.    - Egg Collection Service: Consider asking a neighbour, friend, or pet sitter to collect eggs if you’ll be away for longer than a day or two.    Health & Well-being    - Check Chickens: Before you leave, check that all chickens are healthy with no signs of illness. Address any issues before you go.    - First Aid Kit: Have a chicken first aid kit available with essentials like electrolytes, probiotics, and antiseptic in case of minor issues.    - Predator Deterrents: Ensure any predator deterrents, such as motion-activated lights or alarms, are functioning properly.    Cleaning & Maintenance    - Clean Coop: Clean the coop thoroughly before leaving to minimize the risk of buildup in waste or odours.    - Bedding: Add fresh bedding to the coop and nest boxes to ensure the chickens are comfortable over the weekend.    - Check for Hazards: Look for any potential hazards inside the coop or run, such as sharp objects, and remove them.    Automated Systems    - Automatic Door: If you have an automatic coop door, ensure it’s functioning correctly and has a backup power source (e.g., battery) in case of a power outage.    - Timers: Verify that any timers for lights or automatic systems are set correctly.    Neighbor/Friend/Professional Help    - Pet Sitter: Consider hiring a pet sitter or asking a neighbour to check on your chickens once a day. Provide them with clear instructions on what to do.    - Emergency Contact: Leave your contact information and that of a local vet with your designated helper, just in case.    Communication    - Instructions: Provide written instructions for anyone who may be helping out, including how to handle emergencies, where to find supplies, and what to do with eggs.    - Emergency Plan: Make sure there’s a plan in place for emergencies, such as power outages or unexpected weather changes.    Peace of Mind    - Check Cameras: If you have security cameras or a baby monitor in the coop, ensure they’re working so you can check on your chickens remotely.    - Final Walkthrough: Do a final walkthrough before you leave to ensure everything is in order.   By taking these steps, you can enjoy your weekend away with the confidence that your chickens will be safe, healthy, and well-cared for in your absence.