My health - and thinking about getting some chickens

[Chicabee19]

I am new to this site and new to the idea of having some chickens. This is one of the most helpful, friendly sites I've been to.

I have read up to 50 pages from each discussion area, most recently reading the emergency/illness stuff...

I am thinking about getting some of my own hens after buying fresh eggs here in town, then having them run out for short periods.

I have a compromised immune system - Epstein-Barr and other autoimmune diseases that commonly appear with E-B.

I was going to put in a greenhouse last year, but ended up not doing so because I don't breathe well in damp conditions and can no longer tolerate very much sun at all.

Do you think I can raise up to 3 layers w/o affecting my health?

thank you!

D.

 

[nnbreeder]

If you are worried about dust and feather dander you can wear a mask. As long as you keep their area clean you should have no problems. Depending on your location you could use a chicken tractor and move them daily for fresh grazing and to keep manure and other assorted nasties from building up.

 

[wegotchickens]

The fresh eggs are sooo good for you!
Also, watching the chickens in the yard can be very relaxing and peaceful.

Do you have someone that can help you build or assemble a coop? Also, a source for hens?

To me, raising the chicks is that dirtiest part of having chickens since they need to stay close and be kept warm. Hens take minimal maintanence in comparison.

 

[Chicabee19]

thanks for your reply. I am originally from Oklahoma

, now in Oregon.

 

[Chicabee19]

So, getting some older chickens might be better than raising chicks myself?

I was thinking maybe my friend from whom I get eggs could hatch chicks for me and I could visit and bond with them until they are old enough to come to my house?

I have no budget, so coop/run will have to be made from found items and recycled from the mass of remodeling materials lying around here... or maybe the universe will bring me someone who wants to give away their coop/run.

peace

 

[rooster-red]

If you take a few precautions I think you'll be fine raising chickens.

Design a coop that is easy to keep clean, keep a set of shoes to wear only in the coop & run area and remember to wash your hands everytime after you visit them.

 

[Chicabee19]

Should I continue adding questions to this thread, or jump over to the appropriate board and start new discussions?

I think I am lucky I already have found 3 people here in town for advice and help!

peace

 

[cjeanean]

You can do either....a lot of times threads go way off topic and people keep replying....switching forums usually ensures you get more responses....

 

[Jenski]

What about finding another local person to raise them for you so you have a regular supply of eggs ~ without the added worry of taking care of animals?

 

[Tuffoldhen]

I have a compromised immune system since childbirth...I have no problems being around my chickens or henhouse...Keep things clean and washed up you will be fine...

It will do you good to out and about!!...

Thats why I'm a tuffoldhen...