That is very wise. Likewise that is what I will be doing I got a 135 gallon stock tank that I plan on re using as a raised garden bed for Herbs in the Garden any more chicks I plan to get will be hatched under a broody.
Wow 7 dogs!? That must pretty amazing! Man I thought my TWO were handfuls...
As far as Brooders go you can use a plethora of things! As above a puppy play pen. A rather LARGE cardboard box although some grimmice at those. Large totes that can be rather cheap anywhere you go. Kiddie pools with high edges. Some even use a spare bathroom bathtub. I personally went and got a...