Feeling so guilty about locking up my hens

I know what you mean. We have a fenced are for our small dog, Cosmo, and thank goodness the chicken's coop and run is outside the fence. Still, when I feed and water, I have to make sure the dog is in the house because I need to have the gate open, and that's a pain sometimes.

I used to allow my hens to free range all day, but they were getting way too adventurous...they were wandering too far. I saw a few in the neighbor's driveway and I was like "UH-OH" So now, I only let them out at 5pm, when I get home from work, until dusk.

Don't let those chickens make you feel guilty......it's for their own good! LOL

 

I understand about your concern with your chickens and dogs. However, your health and the health of your soon to be newborn takes precedence. You gotta do what ya gotta do. I wish you the best.

 

I am having the same problem (except no big belly ). We had a fox attack, and I wouldn't let my girls out for a week...then we got a new dog, who was too interested in the girls to trust. So now I only let them out a few hours a week and they hate me for it! I can just feel their anger and frustration when I try to compensate with extra treats. They just give me the "evil eye" and make me feel very guilty. I try to explain my reasons are to keep them safe, but being typical teenagers, they just don't listen!!!

Concerning the running around between contractions- this could actually help. They tell you, you should walk around as much as possible to get the baby to move down . Sorry, I have a bit of a strange sense of humor regarding birth since I was in labor with my little girl for 48 hours with NO dilation (and eventually had to have a c-section)

 

I can understand - you are a momma all the way, and want the best for all living things.

I have to do the chicken and dog shuffle every day as well. Often, I feel guilty for leaving the chickens penned up all day. Like they might get bored.

They live in the moment, like dogs.

Good luck with the baby!!!

 

You poor dear! You have a very kind heart. I bet those chickens are just fine out there, until they see you. Then they put on a show to get out. You take care of yourself, do what's best for you and try not to worry about those chickens. A couple of hours late in the day is plenty of time to be out running around. They can get used to a new schedule just fine. They sure can complain when they want to though, can't they?

 

Argghh, the chicken eyes! The chicken eyes!