Advice for a 1st time chicken moma and her new chicks??

[ChickenCrazedMoma]

Hey there I am a busy moma of 4 boys , 2 dogs, 3 cats, 2 ferrets, and 10 3 days old chicks. (5 Buff Orpingtons and 5 Barred Plymouth rocks. Oh yea and of course my oh so loving and understanding hubby who shares this crazy life with me everyday. I love the site and the wonderful people on it ,I just wanted to take a moment to introduce myself , and see what if any advice you guys may have for us.

 

[suebee]

My advice is read, read, read here on BYC. Any specific questions besides keeping the dogs and cats away the new chicks?

 

[lizzy06019]

This is a great place for you to learn all you need to know about raising chicks. I'm a new chickie momma too and it's a very exciting time for our family. My 4 year old is learning so much about caring for small animals. We have 2 dogs and it's totally different handling them verses chicks. My best advice is to enjoy them while they're little. Handle them everyday so they get used to you and find a safe place for them... away from unsupervised visits from the dogs/cats/kids. Read as much here as possible... there's always something new to learn from very experienced people.

 

[ChickenCrazedMoma]

LOL yea we have them put up in a very safe place. I spent the last year reading every thing I could get my hands on and have been able to visit with some nice chicken owners who let me see there coops and babies. They seem to be doing very well and are so sweet, I just love to sit and watch them. Today I had to clean a few crusty behinds but they are nice and clean now. The weather has been great here and was wondering if we should let them explore alittle outside or should we wait a bit?

 

[ChickenCrazedMoma]

Thanks Lizzy and congrats on your new babies too. I also have a four year old who loves the new babies. Sue I have an 11yr old Autistic son and love your quote!

 

[M To The Maxx]

 

[Sequin]

Welcome!!! Just be prepared that little chicks make a LOT of dust as they grow. I had really forgotten how much dust they make - until I now noticed it covering just about everything. LOL... Congrats on your new little ones!!!

 

[suebee]

Quote:
Heck yea I'd let them out to explore but only under very close supervision. It's gonna be in the upper 80's here in NC. My chicks have been out and love it.

 

[ChickenCrazedMoma]

Quote:
Heck yea I'd let them out to explore but only under very close supervision. It's gonna be in the upper 80's here in NC. My chicks have been out and love it.

I was hoping to hear that! lol I wanted to take them out tomorrow to explore in a little spot I have set up just for them. How long should I let them play outside?

 

[suebee]

Quote:
CCM, Mine son just turned 22. It's been a journey!