Taking a well-deserved break is something we all look forward to, but for chicken owners, the thought of leaving your flock can be daunting. The good news? With careful planning, you can ensure your chickens are happy, healthy, and safe while you’re away. Whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a two-week adventure, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for going on holiday as a chicken owner.

1. Choose the Right Caretaker

The first step in your holiday preparations is finding someone to look after your flock. Ideally, this would be another chicken keeper who understands your birds’ needs and quirks. If that’s not an option, choose someone reliable and willing to learn.

Here’s what to look for:

• Someone trustworthy who can commit to daily visits.
• A calm temperament for handling unexpected issues.
• An interest in learning about chicken care (if they’re new to it).

Short trips? If you’ve invested in automated systems for feeding, watering, and coop doors, you might not even need a sitter for a two-to-three-day getaway. However, for longer trips, a chicken sitter is essential.

2. Clean and Repair Your Coop Beforehand

No one wants to deal with a dirty or damaged coop while you’re away, especially your chicken sitter. Before you leave:

• Inspect the coop and run: Look for holes, gaps, or weak spots that predators or vermin could exploit and repair them.
• Deep clean: Give the coop a thorough clean, removing old bedding and droppings. This ensures your sitter starts with a fresh, hygienic setup.
• Double-check security: Make sure all latches, locks, and fencing are secure to prevent unwanted visitors like foxes or snakes.

3. Leave Detailed Instructions

Don’t rely on verbal instructions alone. Write everything down in a clear and concise plan for your chicken sitter. Include:

• A list of your chickens (with breed descriptions and any unique identifiers).
• Feeding instructions, including portion sizes and times.
• Where to find food, treats, and supplies.
• How to collect and store eggs.
• Any special instructions, like managing broody hens or sick birds.

Include your contact details, your vet’s information, and the number of a friend who keeps chickens in case of emergencies.

4. Automate Where You Can

Automating tasks can make things easier for both you and your chicken sitter:

• Automatic coop doors: Let your chickens free range during the day while ensuring they’re safely locked up at night. These doors operate on timers, so you won’t have to worry about missed curfews.
• Treadle feeders: Keep food clean and secure from pests with a large-capacity feeder. This reduces the need for frequent refilling.
• Automatic waterers: Ensure your flock has constant access to fresh water, even in your absence.

5. Stock Up on Food and Treats

Chickens can eat around 400 grams of feed daily, so calculate how much you’ll need and add extra to be safe. Here’s how to prepare:

• Fill all feeders and ensure they’re working properly.
• Store backup feed in a secure, dry place where your sitter can easily access it.
• Leave treats and toys to keep your chickens entertained. Boredom busters like sprouted seeds or hanging cabbage heads can keep your flock occupied and happy.

6. Ensure Access to Fresh Water

Water is critical for your chickens’ health. They drink 250–500ml of water daily (more in hot weather). Install an automatic waterer or place several bowls around the run to provide constant access. For hot climates, leave instructions for your sitter to add ice to the water supply to keep it cool.

If you have ducks, ensure they have access to a water source, like a small pond or bucket, as they require even more water than chickens.

7. Emergency Preparedness

Leave an emergency kit and clear instructions for your sitter to handle potential issues. Your checklist should include:

• A first aid kit for chickens.
• Your vet’s contact details.
• Information about common chicken illnesses and symptoms.
• A trusted chicken-keeping friend’s number for advice or backup.

8. Egg Collection: A Must-Do Task

Encourage your sitter to collect eggs daily—not just for freshness but to prevent problems. Chickens can develop a habit of eating their own eggs if left unattended, which can be hard to break.

Let your sitter know they’re welcome to take some eggs home as a thank-you.

9. Get Your Flock Holiday-Ready

Prepare your chickens for any potential stress while you’re away:

• Superfood supplements: Boost their immune system with a healthy blend of superfoods.
• Apple cider vinegar: Add it to their water to promote gut health.
• Treats and enrichment: Keep them happy and distracted with fun treats and toys.

Going on holiday as a chicken owner doesn’t have to be stressful. By planning ahead, automating key tasks, and leaving clear instructions, you can relax knowing your flock is in good hands. Plus, investing in automated solutions like coop doors and waterers will make future trips even easier.

Need help preparing for your next holiday? Explore our range of feeders, waterers, and coop accessories to ensure your chickens are cared for while you’re away.

Happy travels! 🐔✈️