New to Chickens

[bdorsey5151]

Hello,
I'm new to raising chickens & have been doing some research. A friend & myself are doing this and wanting to start with 12 Rhode Island Red hens, young adults, not chicks.

What's the deal with shots ... do they have to have them ... and if so, what kind?

Is organic food easy to get?

What's the best way to get the chickens?

 

[alexa009]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens! Glad you joined the flock! Chickens don't necessarily need shots.

 

[Ducksandchickens]

I don’t give my chickens shots unless for emergency. Look at your local feed store for chickens, that way you’re helping your community and I use kraut organic feed

 

[bdorsey5151]

Thank you, the book I'm reading said the chicks needed shots, so it's confusing! Is Kraut a brand? And where do you get it? Do you have a vet for your chickens? Thanks!

 

[Ducksandchickens]

Thank you, the book I'm reading said the chicks needed shots, so it's confusing! Is Kraut a brand? And where do you get it? Do you have a vet for your chickens? Thanks!

Yes kraut is a brand. I have a vet for the chickens but I only take them for emergency

 

[bdorsey5151]

Okay ... I looked for kraut & all I found was an article about fermenting chicken feed like sauerkraut. Where do you get it?

 

[Dayrel]

Welcome by BYC!

As for feeds, I recommend that you find your local farm supply stores- Tractor Supply and Rural King are two of the biggest, though there are also many smaller operations around. Take a tour and get an idea of what brands and feed types they carry. Some brands are national (Purina/Nutrena/etc) and there are many local/regional brands. Organic feeds are pretty common, but as you would expect are more expensive.

 

[Justso]

Hi bdorsey! Maybe you could give a little more information, where are you located? That would help people direct you to a store near you. I think the shots that are being referred to are for Marek's. It is optional. Where are you getting your chicks from?

 

[ronott1]

It is great having you here!

Often it is better to as questions in the forum that matces better. Ask about inoculations in the raising chickens or the emergencies forum

 

[Kiki]

Welcome! We are glad you joined our flock!
Jump right in and make yourself at home.
Fermenting feed can be made at home with nothing more then any complete feed and water.
Fermented Feed FAQ | Tikk Tok

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