How to raise Backyard Chickens: [CHICKENS-101] Chicken Therapy

Hi everyone,

I haven't posted in a couple of months, but I've tried to keep up with the emails. This is such a great group and so much fun.

First off, thanks for being my bright spot on many days here lately.

Here's what happened.

I have 6 small dogs. 10 - 15 lbs. They have large 20 x 20 kennels. One of the dogs - Happy - learned how to scale the 8' fences. Up and over in a heartbeat. Immediately he would go after chickens. He was deadly. We tried everything short of putting a complete wire top on the pen. Nothing worked so I was forced to keep him crated and leashed. I contacted every rescue in our area for help. He would be such a great little dog in a house with no chickens..... and no cats. He was an excellent little house dog, very gentle and loving, except for cats and chickens. Finally I found someone on my own to take him.

In his rampage he destroyed all of my chickens except for 4. I only had 2 Partridge Cochin hens and a pair of Silver Lace Cochins. I became so depressed over it all. I felt so guilty over the chickens and was heartbroken. It didn't help matters that I had to give him away and had such a difficult time finding a home. None of the 5 rescues, including the Humane Society would help.

Then.........................

On March 1st my Dad had some major surgery and then we had to put him in a rehab (nursing home). He's 88 and they scared us to death about the anesthesia.

One March 3rd my husband had to have his shoulder reconstructed because of an accident at work. I had 2 of them in different hospitals on different sides of town. They were only able to repair 50% of the damage and we don't know yet how much use he will have of that arm.

In the middle of all this my only brother who is 63, got arrested for DWI. A beer to many at Applebee's got him. His wife threw him out and immediately went and filed for divorce. I think it was already coming, but this just pushed it over the edge. He had to move in with us.

Everyone is now on the mend and at home. My brother have moved in with Dad and this is a great relief for me. Having someone there with Dad all the time is a blessing. Even if it did happen the way it did.

I'm now the chauffeur, cook, washerwoman, nurse and Ms Do It All for 3 grown men. Gaaaaaaaah, no one can drive, either because of injury or legal problems. Add to that a busy 8 year old. No wonder I'm so depressed.

I decided to get Chicken Therapy. I was doing fine until that dog went beserk. Hmmmmmm

First I order a nice assortment of Cochins. They are coming in June. I felt a whole lot better!

Then I had to fire up the cab service to take my brother to Rural King. Guess what? I did retail chicken therapy! I caved in and bought 10 Buff Orpington pullets. I feel even better!

I feel so much better with my 10 little peepers keeping me company in the kitchen. I'm secretly hoping that one is a rooster. :) Soon I will be moving on to Phase II Chicken Therapy which is building new coops/tractors for all my little chickies. All will include tops for better dog proofing than before. Just in case.

Things are looking up!

Dana

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