Are Chickens the New Dog?
August 23rd, 2009 Posted in Green Living & News
Living green doesn’t just have to be about saving energy and using environmentally-safe products, it can also be a way to bring new members to your family.
Most Americans stick with the same pets: dog, cat, hamster, fish. An alternate option, though, can help keep your home green while welcoming new companions to your backyard.
Chickens are becoming an increasingly popular pet across the country. These backyard birds are a great way to have fun pets and reap some great benefits.
Of course, there are nutritious eggs that will come from the chickens.
Another advantage is the organic pest control. By allowing the chickens to find food (bugs and grass) on their own, pests like ticks get eaten with little effort on your part. You’ll also get free fertilizer!
These pets are relatively easy and inexpensive to care for, especially when compared to other household animals. Their shelter can be made with recycled materials, and they don’t require much attention.
Because they are a backyard animal, though, it’s smart not to get as attached to chickens as you would with a dog or cat. They run a much larger risk of getting injured or even killed by predators like raccoons or hawks. However, owners can learn to recognize the warning squawks from their poultry to avoid the problems.
As with any pet, there’s a lot for new owners to learn, and it’s all about trial-and-error. When considering your next animal, try some sweet little baby chicks and get more than you expected.
By Stephanie Desmond
5 Comments | The First 1,000 to Comment (Starting 12/21/2009) Will Become EcoSMART Product Testers!
By Michael Hendrson on Aug 22, 2009
Started raising chickens this year, and they do a great job in the flower beds and garden areas digging for bugs. Will be composting all droppings from the coop for use in the garden next years. A definite win-win deal. Eggs are great tasting, and fresh everyday.
By April on Aug 23, 2009
Have a major chinch bug problem. Didn’t know they flew and am seeing a trend in infestions in my neighbors yards. I have heard chinch bugs are very hard to get rid of. HELP!!!!
By Stefanie on Aug 24, 2009
Never thoght of chicks as being potential pets. They are cute and fuzzy, but I don’t know if they could replace my cats.
By Stefanie on Aug 24, 2009
Never thought of chicks as being potential pets. They are cute and fuzzy, but I don’t know if they could replace my cats.
By Brian Rish on Sep 1, 2009
Would love to have chickens, but not sure my dog would love them as much. Also thought of goats, but didn’t get them for the same reason… and they would eat all of my flowers!