6 Chicks. WWNRD (What would nancy reagan do?) Say no to drugs or yes? Please help!

[a3prepper]

Starting with 6 Hens (2 of each breed) Plymoth Barred Rocks, Gold Comets, Rhode Island Reds

We live in Ohio and I was told these were good all around climate breeds. This is our first attempt at chickens and we are very excited. I have a friend that is going to help us. We get our chicks at the end of this month. I'll have a coop and heat lamp all ready for them but I have a question? Should I treat them with tetracycline in their water. Our idea is to keep them as toxin free as possible. We want to get eggs and when they are done make sandwiches. I've read several posts but wanted some expert opinions. Also at what point do we want to give them crushed oyster shells?

I feel kinda stupid like a little boy instead of a grown man at 42 but I'm pretty giddy about getting these chicks. Its our first step toward self sustaining living and homesteading. We are hoping to purchase some property this coming Spring/Summer and really start our new life. But for now.....chickens it is.

I'm Gary by the way. Nice meeting you and look forward to your advice.

Stay Blessed!

 

[DTchickens]

I wouldn't use any antibiotics (Which I believe the tetracycline is?) at this point unless there was a necessity for it. Why treat for something that isn't there? The only thing most birds will need throughout their lifespan is a good wormer/feed, green grass, sunshine, dirt (for bathing/grit), and clean water usually. Some need adequate shelter but not all as many are plenty capable to survive free range and be happier than they would be in your specifically designed cages.

At most I would give them vitamin and electrolytes, which are not always a necessity as if you have a decent feed, green grass, and the occasional fruit or vegetable you might toss to them they're probably already getting it all or most. Also on the oyster shell: I don't supply it, I never have. I have never needed it as the calcium that was added into the laying pellets has always been enough for me. You can use baked egg shell too though in place of the oyster shell if need be.

God bless,
Daniel.

 

[RonC]

I second not giving them antibiotics for no reason. Keep them on their starter till they start laying. At that point you can switch to layer. If you wind up with younger birds in the flock that shouldn't have calcium you can feed flock raiser and offer the oyster shells free choice in a seperate container. They won't eat the oyster shells if they don't need calcium.