Trying to be a good chick mommy"

[Paulabee]

Hi!

I am Paula from Jacksonville Florida. I have wanted backyard chickens for quite a while, but couldn't convince my husband to do it. Finally I just asked him to take me to tractor store which had chicks for its National Chicken Sale Week. He was not happy, but he told me that he loved me enough to help me get started.
We purchased 2 Rhode Island Reds, 2 Rhode Island Whites, and 2 mixed red and white. They are in their brooder with their heat lamp... seem quite happy and active. I am trying to decide what type of choop and run to make, and especially if I end up making it with my girlfriend by ourselves. We have 3 dogs and I think the chicks have already adapted to them as they don't even jump and scatter when they bark anymore.

Anyway, I am glad to have a place to learn. Now... onward to that coop!

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi Paula and

- glad that you have joined us. I'm sure that before long your hubby will grow to like your flock as much as you do.

I'd suggest checking out the "Coops" section and the "coops and runs " forum for ideas - there's lot of ideas that may provide some inspiration.

all the best
CT

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

Hi Paula, nice to meet you. Welcome to Backyard chickens.

Actually it's a matter of the dogs not harming the chickens. Dogs and cats tend to view chicks as toys or quick lunches. Either way the chicks end up dead. You never hear of chickens killing a dog or cat. It's actually best if they NEVER meet. As a greeter, I read new member intros daily and many start by saying their dog/cat has massacred their birds.
They replace the chicks but, don't change anything with the dogs and history repeats itself.

The Learning Center is a great place to start a chicken education. The coop section has a lot of do it yourself styles, sizes, etc. Some have photos and step by step descriptions and plans.