Aw Penny! What a little sweetie. She’s so fortunate to have you looking out for her. Chickens make the best company inside, but I understand the ness aspect. We had a sick chicken inside for the last week or so of her life in December and I always let her walk around in a little area covered with table cloths, towels, puppy pads. About anything I could cover the floor with!Penny loves indoors but doesn't want to be crated- but for her safety- and the cleanliness of my floor when I am not home she must be. She doesn't walk far- but ya never know with her lol. Also if she gets too far from food and water she won't eat because it's not right in front of her...poor girl. But I am home now and she is great!