Getting chicks for the first time

[Kuntry Klucker]

Hey Fellow Backyard Chicken fans,

I am new to chickens and doing chicks for the firs time. I have been reading some of the posts
that others have made regarding things that can go wrong with chicks. It is needless to say
overwhelming.

I was wondering if some one could tell me what I need to have on hand before
the chicks come to be prepared for anything that comes up. I have the brooder and the things needed
for that I am looking for more health related items to have on hand.

Thanks

 

[mmaddie's mom]

electrolyte powder
PolyVisol baby vitamins (without iron)

 

[Celtic Chick]

Check List
As you pick up your new chicks, be sure and get all the supplies you’ll need.

Taking Them Home...

Chick Starter Feed
Feeder
Chicken Fountain
Bedding
Brooder Lamp
Heat Bulb (Red is recommended)
Duramycin (if needed)


As they get older...

Chick Grower Feed
Oyster Shell
Fence Posts
Poultry Dust
Chicken Wire
Grit

More great info on TSC website:
http://www.tractorsupply.com/content/knowhow/chicks/livestock_care_caring_for_new_chicks
http://www.tractorsupply.com/conten.../livestock_care_raising_poultry_expert_advice

 

[Kuntry Klucker]

thanks for your reply
can I get all the stuff and the feed store, or do I need to go to other
places to get those items?

 

[Kuntry Klucker]

thank you Celtic Druid, the websites were very helpful.

Now I have another question. I keep reading that you have to be careful
with baby chicks because of salmonalia (sp?). Has anyone become sick due
to handling a raising chicks? I just wondering.

Thanks

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

I've never gotten sick from handling chicks, but I am kind of OCD about washing my hands. Just be sure to wash or use sanitizer and you should be fine.

Nikki

 

[pixiedouglas]

One thing that is rarely mentioned that you definately need, a camera!!!!!

 

[Scoop]

I never got sick from handling baby chicks. Just be careful to wash your hands when you are done cleaning out the brooder, waterer, whatever. Did anyone mention that you'll need viewing chairs to sit next to your brooder? Oh, and you can turn the tv off, you won't need it for a while!

Good luck Roy!

 

[chickiepie]

Just wanted to say I got my first batch of chicks about a month ago and I, too, was very nervous! However, I have found that it is easier than I expected and I've kept them all alive to boot!

 

[Kuntry Klucker]

Thanks Chickipie, I am so nervous about doing chicks, sometimes I get cold feet and
wonder if I am going to be able to pull this off.

I got 15 BO pullets and 1 BO roo.
I worry about the roo if he will be nice or not, then I worry about if the chicks
will survive when I have absolutly no experience at this, then I worry that when
the chickens go outside I will have problems there too.

Needless to say I think
I worry too much. I have heard it said that chickens are so easy to take care of,
maybe I am just making it harder.

Anyway, thanks for your post, gives me hope that a nervous newbie like me can pull
it off.

Thanks