The Omlet Blog Archives: October 2019

31% off Chicken Perches this Halloween!

Save 31% on Omlet Chicken Perches this Halloween!

OFFER NOW EXPIRED

Calling all wicked Witches! We know October has been a very busy month for you all, which is why we are offering 31% off when you upgrade your witch’s broomstick this Halloween, to the Omlet Chicken Perch. This spooktacular offer will fly past, so don’t miss out! 

Use discount code WITCHES until midnight on the 31st of October! 

 

Give your chickens a brilliant new way to play in their chicken run with Omlet’s Chicken Perch, available in 2 lengths to suit your flock. The naturally weather resistant perch not only features an innovative bracket design – allowing it to be placed anywhere on any chicken run – but is also suitable for use by all breeds of chicken, making it the new must-have DIY chicken coop accessory!

Upgrade your chicken’s playtime with this fun accessory, and use code WITCHES to save 31% until midnight tomorrow.

Terms and conditions

This promotion is only valid from 30/10/19 – midnight on 31/10/19. Use code WITCHES to claim 31% off Chicken Perches. This offer is available on the Omlet Chicken Perch 1 metre and 2 metre only. Subject to availability. Omlet Inc. reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any point. Offer cannot be used on delivery, existing discounts or in conjunction with any other offer.

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This entry was posted in Chickens on October 30th, 2019 by linnearask


The Autodoor Has Arrived!

Did you know that over 60% of chicken keepers aren’t getting enough sleep?! Omlet has the solution as they launch the New Automatic Chicken Coop Door.

In the last decade chicken keeping has become a hit with families wanting a slice of the good life, propelling hens into the top ten list of pets.  The reasons are clear: a supply of fresh eggs that’s the envy of your friends as well as teaching children important lessons of where their food comes from suggests that chickens really are the ultimate pet.  

However, a recent survey found that over 60% of chicken keepers wish they could spend longer in bed in the mornings with many admitting they would be willing to pay up to $400 for a solution that could prolong their lazy mornings in bed! 1 in 6 couples even admitted to regularly arguing about who should let the chickens out. What will save the country’s chicken keepers from tiredness and possibly even divorce?

Introducing the brilliant new Automatic Chicken Coop door opener from Omlet. Designed to work with the best-selling Eglu Cube as well as any wooden chicken coop. Omlet’s Automatic Chicken Coop Door Opener is battery powered and combines both a timer and a light sensor, giving you the ultimate flexibility and control.

Omlet’s Head of Product Design, Simon Nicholls, said:  “We know our customers love their chickens and always want the best for them, that’s why we designed the Autodoor so that the hens could get up when they want, which can be quite early in the summer.  It was also important to ensure that it works as well at closing the coop at night and in all weather conditions too, so we carried out extensive testing in several different countries over 2 years to perfect the design.”

The unique integrated frame and door design comes with everything you need to attach it to your chicken house or run and has been tested to work down to -20 deg C. Like a personal chicken coop concierge, the Autodoor will always make sure your chicken’s coop is securely closed at night even when you’re running late.

Sharon Burton, who has kept hens for 4 years in Oxford, believes the Autodoor has even saved her marriage! “There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for my chickens. I buy them the best food, I sprinkle dried flowers in their nest box to keep it fresh, but I always felt guilty if I didn’t hop straight out of bed at the crack of dawn to let them out and whenever I asked my husband Paul to do it he would pretend to be asleep! When Omlet asked me to test the Autodoor I was delighted, it’s saved my marriage!”

Omlet’s new Automatic Chicken Coop door opener is available now to order! Prices starting from $189.

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This entry was posted in Chickens on October 30th, 2019 by linnearask


Top 10 tips for camping with dogs

Spaniel outside on their Omlet Cushion dog bed in Prism Kaleidoscope

Calling all fellow adventurers! If you’re planning a camping trip and want to bring your dog along for the fun, you’ve come to the right place. Camping with dogs can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it does require some extra planning and consideration. In this guide, we’ll share our top 10 tips to ensure an awesome camping adventure with your canine buddy. So grab a cup of coffee, put on your boots, and let’s hike on in.

1. Do your research

Before hitting the road, make sure you do some research to locate dog-friendly campgrounds around your area. The last thing you want on your outdoor adventure is to show up to a “no pets allowed” sign. So look for places that not only allow dogs, but have ample space for them to roam. 

Campgrounds that provide pet amenities like dog parks or trails should be highest on your list. The number one rule in camping is to respect the rules and guidelines, so finding a campground that’s dog-friendly will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. 

2. Pre-camping vet visit

Keeping up-to-date with your dog’s vaccinations is an important part of pet parenting all of the time. But before you bring your canine buddy camping, it’s a good idea to schedule a visit to the vet to make sure your dog’s flea and tick preventions are current. Lots of tiny insects live in the woods and you want to make sure your pup is protected. 

This appointment is also a good time to discuss any specific concerns or potential risks related to camping, such as wildlife encounters or waterborne illnesses. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, right?

3. Pack dog essentials

Just as you need your essential camping gear, your furry friend needs their essentials, too. Here are some ‘must-have’ items to pack for your dog to be sure they become happy campers as well.

  • Dog bed: Since sleeping bags are just a human thing, it’s important you bring a dog bed for your canine to get comfortable and cozy on while camping. The Cushion dog bed designed by Omlet is the perfect choice as it literally is the ‘go anywhere’ dog bed. Made from durable and sustainable materials, the Cushion dog bed will keep its pillowy soft shape for sleeping in the tent, on the forest ground, or in the car.
  • Dog bowls: One of the best parts of camping is enjoying a fireside meal after a day full of adventure. So don’t forget to pack durable dog bowls for your camping canine. And if your dog is adventuring on hikes with you, be sure to pack a portable bowl for water stops so they can stay hydrated along the way.
  • Dog blanket: Depending on what time of year and the location of your camping adventure, nighttime outdoors can bring with it colder temperatures. In order to make sure your dog stays cozy and warm, be sure to pack a dog blanket so they can enjoy a snuggly snooze. The Sheepskin Dog Blanket designed by Omlet is an easy-to-travel with choice that will keep your pup warm throughout the entire camping adventure.

4. Practice leash etiquette

Keeping your dog on a leash is not only a rule in many campgrounds, but it’s also a safety measure for you and your pet. Remember, letting your dog sniff in your backyard is much different than sniffing in the woods of the great outdoors. 

So before you and your canine head out on your camping trip, make sure you practice leash training. Even dogs who are used to being on a leash could benefit from some reminders of staying close and away from wildlife. To add some fun to your outdoor experience, get your furry friend a dog leash from the Omlet Dog Walk Collection in the same print as their cushion dog bed and match their accessories to your favorite walk.

5. Be mindful of local wildlife

Speaking of wildlife, it’s extremely important before embarking on your camping journey to be aware of the potential animal encounters you could have in your area. Other campers are not the only interactions you and your dog will have on your trip, so make sure you do your research in advance to understand which animals and plants are in that area. 

Bears, snakes, and skunks are just a few of the furry wildlife that could live near your selected campground, so when hiking, always keep your dog a leash to avoid any unexpected confrontations. If lakes, streams, or ponds are around your campsite or on your hiking paths, be sure to never let your dog drink from stagnant water.

Dog and owner camping with backdrop of mountains

6. Staying cool

If you’re planning your canine-friendly camping trip during the summer months, temperatures can get hot – and uncomfortable. Dogs can easily overheat so making sure you provide your pup a shaded area and plenty of fresh water is essential to keep them cool while camping. 

Whether your dog is camping out with you in a tent or underneath the stars, when the mercury rises, seek out spots that are well-shaded or covered so you both can stay cool. Big trees and covered camping structures are great options. And since hydration is key to a happy and healthy camping trip, make sure you refill your dog’s water bowl often with fresh, cool water.

7. Cozy canine space

One of the best parts of camping is cozying up in a sleeping bag after a long day enjoying the great outdoors. So how can you let your dog experience the same joy and wonder of that experience? By creating a spot all their own with a cozy and comfortable dog crate.

With the Fido Folding dog crate designed by Omlet, you can set up your dog’s personal space with ease so they can relax and feel safe throughout the trip. Easy to set up and take down, this dog crate is the perfect option for camping canines. Add a dog blanket from home to snuggle up with and your dog will be a happy camper in no time. 

8. Keep them entertained

Your camping trip will likely include lots of walking and hiking with your four-legged companion, but how do you make sure your dog stays active and stimulated for the whole trip? To prevent boredom or restlessness in your dog while camping, be sure to pack some dog toys to keep them mentally engaged and busy. Stuff their favorite Kong with delicious dog-friendly treats and your pup will stay occupied during your entire fireside s’mores session. 

9. Respect other campers

Remember, not everyone is a dog lover. If camping in a well-attended campground, it’s possible you may encounter fellow campers who have animal allergies or who are just not ‘dog people’ like you. So be mindful and respectful of others by keeping your dog’s barking under control, avoiding their campsites, and cleaning up after your pup promptly. Fostering a positive camping environment makes the trip enjoyable for everyone. 

10. Leave no trace behind

Last but not least, practice good outdoor ethics by following the “leave no trace behind” principles. This means not only picking up your own trash and debris, but cleaning up your dog’s waste, too. Pack plenty of poop bags to carry with you on walks and throughout the campground to dispose of your dog’s ‘business’ in designated trash cans. Keeping the environment clean ensures a beautiful experience for future canine campers. 

Canine camping with Omlet

Camping with your four-legged friend is a wonderful way to create lifelong memories and deepen your bond together. At Omlet, we believe there is no better way to connect with your dog than time spent together. That’s why we craft ingenious designs like our dog crates, cushion dog beds, and dog blankets so you can spend less time fussing over the essentials and more time enjoying your best friend. 

Terrier dog travelling in the car resting on Omlet's Luxury Faux Sheepskin dog blanket

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This entry was posted in Dogs on October 29th, 2019 by linnearask


FREE shipping on all Qute Hamster & Gerbil Cages

Transform your hamster’s home this autumn, and upgrade to the Qute Hamster & Gerbil Cage from Omlet, now with free delivery for a limited time only. Use code SUPERQUTE to claim this special offer! 

Easy to clean, secure and stylish, the Qute Cage has a clear and removable bedding tray which makes it easier to handle and interact with your hamster or gerbils. Available in white, walnut or birch effect, this luxury hamster house also features an optional storage section below for keeping all your hamster’s feed and bedding tidily in one place.

The Qute Hamster & Gerbil Cage is a modern and practical upgrade from traditional small pet cages, which will seamlessly fit in your home like a contemporary piece of furniture. If you have been looking to have hamsters but have been put off by the clunky, plastic cages found in pet stores – look no further than the Omlet Qute! 

Available now from $99, with FREE delivery until midnight on Monday. Use promo code SUPERQUTE.

 

Terms & conditions

Free delivery promotion is only valid from 10/25/19 – midnight on 10/28/19. For free delivery use promo code SUPERQUTE. This offer is only available on Qute Hamster & Gerbil Cages. Offer applies to Standard Delivery Service only. Free delivery offer is not redeemable on pallet deliveries. Omlet cannot take responsibility for third party supplier delays such as courier service. Free delivery is only valid for orders shipped to the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands, Luxembourg, Austria, Italy, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, USA and Spain. Subject to availability. Omlet ltd. reserves the right to withdraw the offer at any point. Offer cannot be used on existing discounts or in conjunction with any other offer.

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This entry was posted in Gerbils on October 25th, 2019 by linnearask


How to Give Your Rabbit a Health Check

GIF of rabbit with twitching nose

Rabbits will most likely not show any signs of illness or pain before it is really serious, as any weakness would mark them as an easy target for predators in the wild. It is therefore important that you, as an owner, carry out regular health checks on your pet, so that you are able to spot potential problems while they are still treatable. 

Always take your rabbit to the vet as soon as you suspect something is not right. A rabbit’s health can deteriorate very quickly, so don’t lose any time wondering if it’s worth it or not.

Body

Put a towel on your lap and place your rabbit on top of it. Stroke him or her to calm them down. When your rabbit has settled, you can start examining their body. 

Feel the stomach to make sure it’s not swollen or distended and go through the rest of the body for signs of cuts, bruises or lumps. Feel the muscles in the legs, they should be strong and firm. Any wincing or unexpected movement from the rabbit could be a sign that the body part you’re touching is causing your rabbit pain.

Check your rabbit’s breathing; it should not be labored. Wheezing or clicking noises from the lungs can be signs of illness.

It is worth getting a set of scales and regularly weighing your rabbit. Sudden weight loss is a serious sign of illness, and a lack of appetite is a strong indicator of poor health.

Mouth and nose

The nose should be dry and not have any discharge. Check that the rabbit is not dribbling, and that it doesn’t have any sores or cuts around the mouth. The gums should be pink (a red or purple color is a sign of illness).

Make sure the teeth are not overgrown or damaged. They should also be growing straight and be uniform. You won’t be able to see the back teeth, but if you move your fingers over the cheek you can feel for lumps, and make sure that everything is symmetrical. Overgrown teeth are a serious problem as this can prevent your rabbit from eating, which is why it is very important to give them plenty of good quality hay to wear the teeth down with.

Eyes

Check your rabbits’ eyes to make sure they are clean and clear. You shouldn’t see any discharge or dirt. If you do, carefully pull back the eyelid to see if you notice any redness or pus in the eye; it is possible that the rabbit has scratched its eye. The eyes should also be dry; runny eyes can be a sign of teeth problems, or possibly ingrowing eyelashes or blocked tear ducts.

healthy-rabbits-on-eglu-go-runEars

Rabbit ears should be free from any dirt, wounds, lumps, wax, discharge or parasites. Look inside the ears; you can use a torch if it’s difficult to see. Take extra care if you have a lop rabbit as they are particularly prone to abscesses around the ears. Carefully massage the base of the ears, where lumps can sometimes occur. 

Feet

Watch your rabbit move around to make sure it’s not limping and doesn’t have any lameness in the legs. Pick up your rabbit and put him or her on your lap. It’s not a good idea to put a rabbit on its back, so hold it against you with one hand under its bottom. Try spreading the toes to check for scabs, abscesses or a build up of dirt. Also check the heels on the back feet. These should not be red or swollen. Check the fur on the feet and brush it if it’s matted.

Rear End

Check the fur around the bottom. It should be completely clear from feces or other dirt. A dirty bottom can be a sign that the rabbit’s diet is too rich and that they are not eating all the caecotrophs they produce.

During summer you should check for any build up of dirt at least once a day, as a dirty bum can attract flies that lay eggs in the damp fur. This causes a condition known as flystrike, which can kill a healthy rabbit in a matter of days.

Also check the rear end for any swelling or redness.

Coat

With your rabbit sat on your lap, part the hair with your fingers and check for cuts and wounds, bald patches, anything moving, small brown dots or white flakes. 

Even if you don’t have a rabbit that requires grooming on a daily or weekly basis it is good to get your pet used to brushing from an early age. Rabbits moult regularly, and you might need to help them get rid of dead hair from their coat during this time.

Changes in temperament

Sudden changes in temperament and behavior is never a good sign. Maybe your rabbit doesn’t come running when you approach it with food in the morning, or is suddenly aggressive. These might be signs your rabbit is in pain. 

Rabbits who reach sexual maturity can sometimes act very differently. Spraying is a common problem, as is aggression. Your rabbit might not be in pain, but it can be very distressing for them to go through this ‘puberty phase’. This might be a good reason to get your pets neutered as soon as they are old enough.

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This entry was posted in Rabbits on October 21st, 2019 by linnearask


Get Creative and Make A Hamster Maze

Hamsters love to play and explore!  There are many toys and treats available to buy for your furry friend,  but wouldn’t it be great to design and construct an exciting maze for them? They are easy and fun to make and will provide hours of fun!

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • A shallow box, something like a vegetable box from a supermarket or an old suitcase.
  • Thin cardboard to make the walls, tunnels and other parts of the maze.
  • Non toxic glue – we used a glue gun.

Now for the fun part!

Create walls, tunnels, bridges, caves and more, securing them to your box using non toxic glue.  The more things in the maze, the better!

We added a little teepee as a finish point, and placed a treat inside for our hamster to find.  

Not all routes need to lead to the teepee. Some paths could lead to a dead end, or you could give your hamster an option of two different tunnels to go through, leading to two different parts of the maze. The green tunnel or the yellow tunnel…which will your hamster choose? 

Your hamsters will more than likely try to climb out of their maze from time to time so make sure you keep a close eye on them while they are having fun exploring!

Grab some card, glue and a box and get creative!

We’d love to see photos of the mazes that you produce, please send them to marketing@omlet.us and we will share our favorites!

 

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This entry was posted in Hamsters on October 17th, 2019 by linnearask


How to Make a Cozy Den for Your Pet

Terrier asleep on Omlet Super Soft Dog Blanket in Omlet Fido Dog Crate

Have you ever found your dog or cat curled up in a tiny, enclosed corner around the house when the weather gets cold? Perhaps under the bed, behind the sofa, or even in an empty box? When the temperatures drop outside, most of our pets’ usual snoozing spots become very cold and exposure to chilly drafts become uncomfortable. But you can help combat the cold by giving your pet a comfortable and warm space for naps this winter. Read on to find out how you can create a snuggly den for your four-legged friend to call their own.

Find a cozy corner of your home

Do you know your pet’s favorite place to sneak a snooze? As winter rolls in, keep an eye on your dog or cat’s “go to” spot to curl up for naps. It will be the place where they feel most secure and can completely relax without keeping one eye open. Most likely it is in a warm room in your house where they will have some company, but not so much that they will be kept awake or interrupted frequently. This will be the ideal location to create the cozy den for your pet! And if you have young children in the house, you might want to consider a room that the little ones don’t have access to.

Find the perfect bed

Once you have your pet’s preferred location picked out, it’s time to cover it with cozy! Sleeping on your bed or the sofa might be your dog or cat’s usual spot for comfort, but unless they sneak under the covers, they will still be exposed to those pesky drafts! And never mind the fact your bed will be victim to muddy paw prints, too! Placing your pets’ bed within something else to create a ‘den’ is a much better solution.

The Fido Nook Dog House and Maya Nook Cat House designed by Omlet offer your pet just that! Thoughtfully designed like a stylish piece of furniture, the Nook offers a sanctuary of security where your pet isn’t just pampered, but protected as well. Place your pet’s bed inside where it can be slightly raised off the ground, limiting the cool drafts and maximizing their comfort. The Nook is also available with curtains that can be attached to the front and back for added coziness and that secluded sleep retreat feeling! And to help ease anxiety for pets affected by loud noises that may come with the holiday seasons, this covered cozy den will be the perfect place for them to feel safe!

To complete your pet’s new den, you need to carefully pick out the perfect comfy bed to complement their coziness! For dogs, choose the Topology Dog Bed to place in their cozy corner and watch their naps elevate to the next level! This memory foam mattress comes with a variety of customizable topper options and the best part, they are all machine washable! And for the cats who need a comfy corner to claim, add the Maya Donut Cat Bed to the Nook or any cozy spot to create the ultimate den. The luxurious cushioning of this premium faux fur cat bed will leave your cat feeling divinely delighted with every cat nap!

Add the finishing touches

A cozy pet den isn’t complete without layers of warmth. For the dog or cat that likes to burrow in blankets or nest in a nap, adding soft, cuddly blankets to their den will make all the difference! The Luxury Faux Fur Sheepskin Blanket designed by Omlet is just what every pet needs to make a pet den feel like a home within a home! Let your pet discover an extra layer of comfort with this carefully and beautifully designed pet throw! It will quickly become your pet’s favorite blanket to bring with them wherever they go and you will love the ease of cleaning the dirt and smells as it is completely machine washable.

Most dogs and cats are social animals and love to be in your company. But just like us humans, when the weather gets cold outside, they like a personal retreat to call their own so they can feel comfy and warm. So create that cozy den for your pet so they can enjoy the magic of the season just as much as you!

Cat resting in Maya Nook Luxury Cat Bed Furniture with Wardrobe

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This entry was posted in Cats on October 11th, 2019 by linnearask


Happy World Egg Day! Enter our competition here.

Happy World Egg Day!

To celebrate, we want you to nominate someone you know who has always dreamed of collecting fresh eggs from their own chickens every day. We will be picking one lucky winner to receive an eggcellent prize – the amazing Eglu Go Chicken Coop with 2m run! 

To enter, head over to our Twitter page, follow us and reply to the World Egg Day tweet with the username of the person you want to nominate. 

Good luck!

Terms and Conditions

The competition closes at midnight on the 13th of October 2019. To enter please comment on the World Egg Day tweet on the Omlet Twitter page – you must also be following the page. One winner will receive an Eglu Go Chicken Coop with 2m run. The winner will be randomly selected from all entries worldwide and notified within 7 days of the competition closing. If the winner does not respond to claim the prize within 7 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner.

Omlet reserve the right to withdraw or amend the competition at any point. Prize cannot be transferred to cash. This competition is not open to Omlet employees or members of their immediate families. All entries must be made on the relevant competition post. The winner agrees to the use of their name and any reasonable requests by Omlet relating to any post-winning publicity.

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This entry was posted in Competitions on October 11th, 2019 by linnearask


How to Prepare your Chicken Coop for Winter

A chicken keeper and her dog outside in the snow with an Eglu coop

The temperature is already dropping rapidly, the nights are drawing in and we are just weeks away from the first frost. Although the fresh air and crunchy leaves may be loved by some, the signs of winter being just around the corner can be a worry for chicken keepers. 

Now is the time to act! Get your chickens’ coop ready for the colder months before the freezing temperatures hit, and you will be able to rest easy knowing that your girls are warm and healthy throughout winter. 

Take a look at some of our top tips for getting your chicken coop winter-ready…

Move your coop closer to the house

This is a simple step for making it easier for you to look after your girls and give them their daily health checks, which are even more important in the colder months. Choose a lightweight coop with wheels, like the Eglu, to make it even easier to move it around your yard.

An Eglu coop covered in the snow

Upgrade your wooden coop to an Eglu

The main benefit to an Eglu Cube Chicken Coop for chicken keepers in winter is the twin wall insulation found in the design of the plastic house. This works in a similar way to double glazing, by creating a barrier between the cold air outside the coop, and the air inside. The air between the two walls conducts poorly, which means inside the house stays at a consistent and warm temperature throughout winter, whatever the weather is doing outside. Chickens are very efficient at keeping themselves warm, all you will need to do is make sure the coop door is shut at nighttime. 

Autodoor

…and to make sure your chicken coop’s door is always shut at dusk, even if you are not yet home, the Automatic Chicken Coop Door is a convenient solution for the Eglu Cube or wooden chicken coops. You can set the Autodoor to close at a specific time or light percentage to suit when all your girls have gone up to bed and the sun has set. The Autodoor runs off batteries and has been tested to work down to -10 degrees celcius so there is no worry, however cold it gets outside! 

The other benefit to the Autodoor is that it will open again at dawn so you can head off to work early before the sun rises and your girls need to be let out, or you can stay in bed for even longer at the weekends without going out in the freezing cold to let your chickens out of their coop! 

“The nights are drawing in and I couldn’t be happier knowing that my girls are safely tucked up in bed with their Omlet Autodoor closed behind them. The Autodoor has given me peace of mind, flexibility and a well needed lie in! Couldn’t recommend it enough!” – Hayley’s Lottie Haven

Run covers

Chickens are very good at coping in cold temperatures, but don’t like getting wet, so it would be kinder for them to be protected from the elements when in their run by our clear covers and windbreaks. Available in a variety of sizes to suit your run length, the clear run covers protect your girls from wind and rain so they can continue to play whatever the weather, whilst still allowing light into the run. 

A close up of an Eglu coop outside

Extreme temperature jackets

When the temperature drops below freezing for multiple days in a row during the very depths of winter, it might be wise to give your chickens extra warmth with an extreme temperature jacket. Poorly or older chickens, will definitely benefit from this extra support.

Hentertainment

Prevent chickens getting bored when rain stops play with a variety of fun and interactive toys they can play with in all weathers. The Chicken Perch provides an easy outdoor perch which can be installed in their run (and protected by the run covers) for when your chickens can’t perch in their usual spots around your yard. The Chicken Swing provides hours of fun and again, can be easily installed in any run. While the Peck Toys and Caddi Treat Holder offer enriching entertainment as well as a rewarding flow of treats.

Added extras

Prevent your chickens’ water from freezing with a water heater to ensure they have access to flowing water at all times. It is also recommended to provide extra layers pellets and treats during winter, as chickens will need more energy to keep themselves warm and lay their eggs in the colder months.

 

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This entry was posted in Chickens on October 8th, 2019 by linnearask


Autumnal Apple Pie Recipe

As the leaves begin to fall and the evenings get shorter we all start to crave comfort food. What’s more comforting and warming than hot apple pie with homemade custard?! Apples are in abundance this time of year so grab some cooking apples and cosy up with a bowlful of this homemade yumminess. 

Ingredients:

Filling

4 Cooking Apples

150g Golden Caster Sugar

Pinch of Cinnamon

3 tbsp Plain Flour

Pastry

250g Unsalted Butter

50g Golden Caster Sugar

2 Eggs

350g Plain Flour

Custard

2 tsps Vanilla Bean Paste

1 pint Whole Milk

4 large Egg Yolks

2 tbsp Caster Sugar

1 tbsp Cornflour

Method:

  • The filling- Peel, core, quarter and slice 4 cooking apples. Lay them out on paper towels to get as much liquid out of them as possible. Leave until you need them later.
  • Mix the sugar and flour for the filling with cinnamon and place in a bowl big enough for the apples and set aside. 
  • For the pastry- beat the butter and sugar together then whisk in 1 whole egg and 1 egg yolk (save the white for glazing pastry later.)
  • Now fold in the flour slowly until it starts to form a ball, collect the remainder of the pastry together with your hands and form a solid ball. Wrap and place in the fridge to cool for 1 hour. 
  • Whilst the pastry is cooling, make a start on your custard. 
  • The custard- Heat the whole milk and vanilla bean paste to boiling then take it off the heat. Whilst that cools slightly, in a large bowl whisk 4 egg yolks, sugar and cornflour then slowly start to add the milk mixture in ladle by ladle whilst continually whisking. 
  • When all the milk is added to the mixture, pour it back into the saucepan and place on a low heat for roughly 20 mins, continuously stirring, take off heat when the custard becomes thick. 
  • Take pastry out of the fridge and set aside a third of the pastry for pie top. Roll the majority of the pastry out to fit your pastry dish, make sure there is a bit of overhang. 
  • Put the apples into the bowl with the sugar and flour and coat the apples using your hands. Now pile the apples into the pastry tin, then roll out the remaining ball of pastry. 
  • Brush some water around the edges of the pastry in the tin and then lay the other round of pastry on top and join them. 
  • Trim the left over hanging pastry off of the tin and make 5 slits in the top of the pastry to let the steam out. 
  • Preheat oven to 190 degrees c and place the pie in for 40mins until golden brown. 
  • Allow to cool for 5 mins then serve with hot or cold custard.

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This entry was posted in Recipes on October 4th, 2019 by linnearask