Raising a Single 6 Week Old Chick?

[Aiwenn]

I have been diagnosed with several conditions, particularly Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder. After a severe episode, I decided a comfort pet would be best to keep me stable and anchored. I would love to raise a chick. However, can I raise a chick that is a little over a month old by itself? I have made plans to carry the chick around with me often. I am mostly at home or going on walks and hikes(which I plan to take her on) if I am not working. I plan to devote most of my spare time and funds to this chicken. She will be the most pampered poultry in history.

I am usually gone for a few hours to work, but I plan to use the mirror and stuffed animal trick so she does not feel so alone. I know they are very social animals, but if I take the time to make sure she is loved and accompanied, could it work?

Thank you very much. I hope I do not ruffle anyone's feathers with my ideas and questions.
I would love any advice that you have to offer.
Have a wonderful day.
cluck cluck

 

[Pork Pie]

Chickens are social animals and thrive in their own company. Having said that, some members do keep "house" chickens.

 

[chickenreyna]

i have a single chicken in tub in my spare room only cuz because her five siblings werent strong enough to survive, needless to say make sure you get her a stuffed animal to cuddle or something cuddly for her to cuddle when she sleeps. One even suggested a feather duster but i have yet to try a feather duster!

 

[chickenreyna]

I have been diagnosed with several conditions, particularly Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder. After a severe episode, I decided a comfort pet would be best to keep me stable and anchored. I would love to raise a chick. However, can I raise a chick that is a little over a month old by itself? I have made plans to carry the chick around with me often. I am mostly at home or going on walks and hikes(which I plan to take her on) if I am not working. I plan to devote most of my spare time and funds to this chicken. She will be the most pampered poultry in history.

I am usually gone for a few hours to work, but I plan to use the mirror and stuffed animal trick so she does not feel so alone. I know they are very social animals, but if I take the time to make sure she is loved and accompanied, could it work?

Thank you very much. I hope I do not ruffle anyone's feathers with my ideas and questions.
I would love any advice that you have to offer.
Have a wonderful day.
cluck cluck

I see you already mentioned stuffed animal. I would say the younger to bond with it then the better you are. I would def suggest s japenese mottled bantam type breed. They are so docile from my experience or a bantan in general,but thats just me.

 

[theoldchick]

You know, quite a few people have a house chicken. While it is always good to have a small flock, I do know people who have house chickens and enjoy it. I had one as a kid and I kept her until I was in my 20's. I remember altering my Honeymoon plans so I could take care of her during her last days. She was leashed trained and taking care of her was never a chore. Taking her outside on her leash was down time for me and I enjoyed watching her graze and chase bugs.

House chickens do require care. They will poop everywhere and there are diapers for that. They have stinky morning poops. They are dusty, will go where they want, and have no idea Aunt Betty's expensive vase is off limits and will break it. So, if you are willing to do the work, yes, you can have a house chicken. Those super fluffy Silkies are a favorite among house-chicken-keepers. You just have to remember you have a toddler whose brain is the size of pea and watch out for all dangers-such as keeping the toilet lid down and so forth.

Yes, a pet can help you heal so long as you are able to take care of their special needs. Are you ready? Yes? Then do your research and put your heart into it.

 

[Aiwenn]

You guys are so wonderful!!

@theoldchick
I'm glad to hear some success stories! Yes, I think I'm ready which is why I am here. I want my darling to be happy and loved so I want to learn as much as I can. Thank you so much for your advice.
How did you leash train your girl?