Rent-a-Chick (Fall 2024)

PROGRAM IS CURRENTLY FULL: Scroll Down to Join Our Wait List

The FARM 1780’s next round of laying hens will hatch on September 3rd. And we have an exciting opportunity for a few families to care for these chicks with our fall rent-a-chick program.  Our program includes few-day-old chicks and all of the supplies that you need to care for them for two weeks.  This is a great opportunity for anyone who is thinking about getting chickens or even those who can’t have chickens because of HOA rules (these will remain in a container that you keep in your home or garage).  When you return your chicks & supplies, you’ll get a certificate for a dozen eggs to use when your chicks start laying.

Pick-up: Saturday, September 7th, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (backup day is Sunday 9/8 should our chicks need extra time to get acclimated after hatching).

Each family will receive:

• 3 chicks (about 5-days old)
• A box for the chicks to live in
• Extra bedding
• Feeders, Waterers, and Feed for 2-weeks
• Heat Lamp
• Instructions for care
• A certificate for a dozen eggs when your chicks start lay in the Spring

At the end of two weeks, you will return your chicks and equipment to The FARM.

Drop-off: Saturday, September 21st, 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Chicks can only be returned during this window.  If you cannot drop-off during this time, please do not reserve them.

$37 per family (at pick-up you will be asked to leave a credit card on file.  If you do not return your chicks or equipment, we will charge the card on file an additional $37 to cover the cost of equipment).

FAQs:

Q: Where will I keep the baby chicks?

A:  Choose an area inside of your garage or home.  DO NOT place chicks outside on a porch, deck, or area where they will be in the elements and susceptible to predators.  Pick an area that allows for proper ventilation while avoiding drafts

Q: What if we have pets?

A: Other pets, like cats and dogs, need to be kept away from the chicks.  These animals have predatory insticts that may pose a threat to the chicks & there shouldn’t be direct contact between the two.  Obviously, your pet is a member of your family and so if separation is not possible, then we suggest reconsidering the rent-a-chick program.

Q: What is a good age range for Rent-a-Chick?

A: Any child can enjoy this experience.  And, we’ve even had adults without children participate in this program! Young children do need to be supervised and you should not allow them to hold the chicks on their own until they have had some practice. Watch for pulling, poking, biting, shaking, and dropping (this is a natural reaction for a young child who hasn’t interacted before, but they can quickly learn proper handling)

Q: What if we decide chickens aren’t for us and we want to return them early?

A: Our chickens are always welcome home! If you get into this and decide at any point it’s not for you all, then just give us a call and we’ll schedule a time for you to return them. There are no refunds for early returns.

Q: What if we really like the experience and decide we want to keep the chickens?

A: This happens a bunch! We are thrilled when families have such a good experience and decide to continue on their own journey with chickens.  You’ll just give us a call and let us know your intentions.  We’ll then bill your credit card on-file for the additional $37 to cover the cost of the chicks and the equipment.  Send us pics once in awhile!  We love keeping up with their journey.