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Owning backyard chickens doesn’t mean you have to give up travel or long weekends away. It just takes a little planning and prep to make sure your flock stays healthy, safe, and comfortable while you’re gone. Here are a few key things to consider before packing your bags:
Find a Reliable Chicken Sitter
The most important step is finding someone trustworthy to care for your chickens while you’re away. This could be a neighbor, friend, or even a local pet sitter with experience in poultry care. Before you leave, do a walk-through where you show them where the feed and water are kept, how to lock up the coop, and what signs of distress or illness to look for. Leave written instructions as a backup.
Automate Where You Can
Technology can make things easier for everyone involved. An automatic coop door can let the chickens out in the morning and lock them up safely at night. Timed feeders and waterers help ensure the flock stays well-fed and hydrated without requiring constant attention. These tools can be especially helpful if you can’t find someone to check on the birds daily.
Prepare the Coop for Your Absence
Before you leave, it’s a good idea to deep clean the coop and check for any maintenance issues. Make sure all the bedding is fresh, there are no gaps predators can sneak through, and everything is secure. Refill all feeders and waterers to capacity and double-check that your chickens have plenty of space and ventilation.
Keep Communication Open
Stay in touch with the person watching your flock, especially if you’ll be gone for more than a few days. Let them know they can call or text with questions or concerns and consider offering a few fresh eggs as a thank-you for their help.
With the right prep and a little help, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind knowing your flock is in good hands. When you return, you’ll be greeted with happy clucks and maybe a few eggs too. And if you’re just getting started, now is a great time to check out the poultry options at Chickens for Backyards. We’ll help you build the kind of flock you’ll be excited to come home to. Contact us today to learn more!
