An Omlet designer starts every project with a question: what will bring us closer to our pets? Then, we break that question down into many more. How do hamsters live in the wild? What makes a perfect hamster and human moment? What challenges do hamsters present as pets? These are a few of the questions we asked when we set out to create our new Hamster Habitat.
We found a perception of hamsters as “starter pets”; one you begin with in preparation for a more challenging one. We thought these intelligent, diligent little creatures deserved better, so we set out to change that perception, and show how a hamster can enrich your life, and you can enrich theirs.
DO THE GROUNDWORK
We began our research by growing our team of office hamsters and gerbils, and bought the most recommended cages on the market, and studied how our tiny pet team behaved in them night and day. We talked to pet owners and vets, read community forums, books and blogs. We clocked up hours on YouTube and TikTok, absorbing everything we could from the shared experiences of humans and hamsters everywhere.
We landed on key principles for hamster happiness born out both by widespread agreement – and our own observations.
HAMSTER TELLS
So what can indicate how a hamster is faring in a new environment? They’re small, they’re nocturnal and they hide, so it’s not always straightforward.
“There are behaviors you can watch for; bar gnawing is common. Then there’s monkey barring, when they climb up and around the metal of their cage, indicating they don’t have enough space to roam. Hamsters do chew, and they do climb, so some climbing and gnawing isn’t necessarily a sign of stress – but if it’s constant then it indicates they don’t have enough space or enrichment.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
BIGGER IS BETTER
Among our findings, space was a big one.
“They like continuous floor space. We used heat mapping and our night cameras, and were able to see that they use and reuse the same pathways, using horizontal and diagonal space consistently.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
THINK DEEP
Depth was just as important as area.
“They like to burrow underground, so having a bedding tray that lets them use that vertical space is essential.”
Finn, Product Engineer
IN THE ZONE
What was interesting though, was how they used their space.
“A bit like us, hamsters tend to have areas for different uses. A larder. A toilet. A bedroom. They basically build little rooms.”
Jack, Senior Product Engineer
RUNNING MACHINES
One hamster hobby was crowned the clear winner.
“They love to run. They can run for miles and miles every night. A good wheel is really important.”
Sophie, Design Intern
SEEN AND NOT HEARD
A large obstacle standing in the way of human and hamster cohabiting happiness was the cage itself – even spacious ones that seemingly met hamsters’ needs.
“The problem with a lot of hamster cages is that they’re noisy. They rattle, the wheels squeak. And they’re ugly. Some are garish, some just look like big boxes with lots of metal. And that means the hamster often ends up somewhere out of the way – out of sight, out of mind.
We set the goal of making ours beautiful and silent so that the hamster could live in any room in the house, and be present and part of the family, which encourages interaction.”
Jack, Senior Product Engineer
ENRICHMENT IS EVERYTHING
As our research confirmed theories, we focussed increasingly on enrichment as key. Josh, our lead designer on the project, sums it up like this:
“If we take cats and dogs as an example, their natural habitats aren’t living rooms and kitchens. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t suited to or happy in them. By living alongside them, we’ve created ways to enrich their lives. Part of that is the bond we share with them, and part is the activities we do with them for fun and exercise.
We approached hamster care in the same way. We set out to design a complete system to make time together more instinctive and fun, and to provide plenty of opportunity for hamsters to meet their needs on their own terms too.
We looked at other products on the market, and whilst many came with accessories, a lot of these were cheap and unfit for purpose. So even if the house itself was popular, the owners would often reference the extra bits that came with it going straight to landfill. So the wheel often is small and squeaky. You get tiny plastic hides. We wanted to do it differently. We wanted to make sure anything we included had a real purpose, and worked for hamsters and humans.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
IN A SPIN
The wheel was really important from the get go, because our observations had shown us just how much time our hamsters and gerbils spent on it. But it had to be fit for purpose.
“If you are going to provide a wheel, you have to make sure it’s big enough for the bigger breeds to fully extend their backs and run in a flat position, rather than arched, which can damage their spines. But it should also be lightweight enough for the smaller breeds to maneuver easily.
Then from a human point of view, we had to make sure it was quiet, because the feedback we found is that wheels squeak, and that’s a real deterrent for people when it comes to having a hamster.
We put ball bearings in, which helps the wheel run really smoothly. We remade the whole thing at one point, because we weren’t satisfied with the central bearing. As well as decibel meter testing, we took it home and tested it out in our own bedrooms – it really is silent!”
Jack, Senior Product Engineer
CHAMBER OF SECRETS
“Initially, we tried making accessories that couldn’t be chewed. But we soon switched tactics, because hamsters and gerbils will chew, it’s something they do. So we looked at natural materials.
We made wood pulp Chamber Hides, which can be chewed. They’re biodegradable, they can be replaced without costing the earth. They simulate hamster habitats in the wild, which have multiple chambers. Bedding material is great for digging but it’s not good for forming hides, as it collapses. The idea with our Chamber Hides is that you put them under or on top of the bedding and they hold the structure, so they can dig and tunnel between smaller areas, as they would naturally.”
Sophie, Design Intern
RAMP UP THE FUN
“We also looked at ways to add variation to the space, and designed platforms and ramps you can add, which give them more areas to use. So you can create mezzanines anywhere on the mesh. And we made a nice attachment method so they’re really easy to clip on, and secure for the hamster when using them.“
Finn, Product Engineer
TIME TO SPILL
Making our Hamster Habitat deep enough for burrowing was easy enough, but it threw up a new problem – bedding spill. Hamster owners may be familiar with the frustration of waking up to discover lovingly loaded bedding deposited not so lovingly all over the floor.
“When they burrow, the bedding material just gets kicked out. We experienced this – we would come in in the morning to find bedding everywhere. It’s a mess, it’s wasteful, and it’s annoying!
Consequently, people often don’t fully fill the bedding trays – but hamsters need that depth. So we wanted to find a design solution to prevent the spillage. We came up with the fender. It lets you fill the tray all the way up, and prevents spillage. But it also lets you fill it even higher if you want to.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
The bedding fender gave another benefit – it made interaction and cleaning easier too.
“You can lift the whole mesh top off, but the bedding fender stays put. This is actually really helpful, because when you lift the top off to interact with your hamster, move things around or spot clean, the fender keeps the tray enclosed, so the hamster can’t escape.”
Sophie, Design Intern
LAYER upon layer
We now had three parts that made up the whole – the bedding tray, the fender and the mesh top. But we had to make sure the three parts wouldn’t rattle and would fit together perfectly, which posed a fresh set of problems.
“We made hundreds of prototypes; we began with cardboard, wood, and 3d printing. As it’s a large product, we would print off one area at a time, like a corner, so we could look at that in really small detail. Testing and refining helped us get each bit right.
We work really closely with our suppliers too. When you’re making parts like this, you’ll naturally get some discrepancy in measurements. There is always some slight movement, which is part of the process – it’s inevitable – but it means measurements can’t be 100% precise. This discrepancy is called the tolerance range.
What you can do is control that tolerance range as tightly as possible, which comes down to collaboration with our manufacturing team – because it’s diligence and attention to detail that ensures deviation between each part is minimal. And that comes down to relationships. So we work very closely with our suppliers to get the tolerance range really tight.
Another measure we took to ensure the three sections fitted tightly together was to add chamfers, which are essentially lead-ins, onto each section. These give an angle, which guides each piece as you slide it into place, so it sits snugly exactly where you want it, supporting it. Because one little edge in the wrong place can cause a real wobble, and one wobble can make a lot of noise.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
A STRAPPING DESIGN
As well as needing the three sections of the habitat to fit together securely, it had to be quick and easy to lift each bit off. Because otherwise, it would make cleaning and interacting with the hamster time consuming and fiddly.
“This is where the bungees really come into their own. We found all the cages had horrible metal or plastic clips, that were tricky and time consuming to undo, or failed quickly. So we thought, how can we do this better? And we came up with bungees. They’re much easier to use – really effective and they look better. And, they’re easy for humans to undo – it’s one smooth motion but it holds everything securely.”
Finn, Product Engineer
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE
With hamsters, best practice is regular spot cleaning to remove soiled bedding, with less frequent deep cleans that disturb all your pets’ hard work creating pathways and dens in their bedding. With easy clean being a hallmark of Omlet design, our Hamster Habitat would have to be faff free for both.
“As well as being able to undo the bungees and lift the mesh top off, there is one big wide door at the front. We made sure everything we designed fitted through that. You can fit your arm in for quick jobs. So you have options. We also made sure there were no corners or crevices for dirt to build up – the curved plastic tray can be emptied and wiped clean in no time.”
Sophie, Design Intern
TAKING A STAND
If our Hamster Habitat was to truly integrate into people’s homes, we had to consider where it would sit – or what it would sit on.
“We had a concept of a tray that drops into a stand – so you don’t have to get the stand, but you can add it later. We spent months and months tweaking to get it right. We have pages of sketches for the diameter of the leg for example, increasing it by tiny increments to see what looked best.
We applied that process to every element, considering the whole, stand and habitat combined, as a piece of furniture, which could appeal to children but also adults. We wanted it to have a playfulness, but not be childish.
Victoria (Omlet’s Textile Designer) was really helpful and worked with us on form and colorways based on interior design. We didn’t need to break the mold – but we could question it and play with it to improve it. So we added curves, which look great but have a functionality of making the corners easy to wipe clean. The curves also give it the recognisable Omlet design blueprint.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
ALL SYSTEMS GO
Our idea of a complete system designed to encourage interaction had one more important component: a playpen, which would have to be safe for hamsters and practical for humans.
“We engineered hinges that click into place so the Playpen folds away flat for easy storage and pops up in seconds, creating a sturdy structure. Smooth sides which couldn’t be gnawed or climbed and a floor protector completed the function. We made two sizes, with the larger one big enough for owners to get in there with their hamster.
We wanted it to have the same visual style as the Habitat, to feel like a product family. Victoria developed a surface design, which mimics the maze-like running and tunneling that hamsters do. This is similar to the way she approaches the dog bed prints, where she will often take a movement or action then design a graphic print inspired by it.”
Josh, Product Design Manager
GRAHAM THE GUINEA PIG
“Graham’s one of the first ever residents of our new Hamster Habitat. He’s head of the hamster design squad.”
Freya, Omlet Community Manager (and Graham’s primary carer)
With over 10,000 hours over four years in the workshop, we think our Hamster Habitat is packed with enrichment and has every potential for hamster happiness – but you needn’t take our word for it. Endless night cam footage confirms that Graham loves it. The Omlet cats spend hours watching him through the bedding fender, but Graham’s unfazed – he knows they’re not getting in. The bungee straps are a stretch too far for even the most dexterous paws.
“As for the cats… Let’s just say they’ve been very interested! But they’ve had no chance. It’s not going to knock or tip over, we’ve tested that. We’ve done everything we possibly can. Along the way, we’ve got to know Graham – his habits, his personality – and how much caring for a hamster can bring to your day. That’s been the biggest learning of all.”
What’s there not to love about a little autumnal getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Long walks in the countryside with the crunching of crisp leaves beneath your feet, or maybe for you it’s endless hours inside relaxing and avoiding the elements and enjoying the sound of chirping birds from the comfort of a cosy cottage. Speaking of…what about the chickens at home?!
If you didn’t make it on a summer holiday this year, you may have never experienced being away from your feathered friends for more than a few hours. So, what exactly do you do when you’ve made the decision to leave your chickens?
What is a chicken sitter?
Babysitters, dog sitters, and even cat sitters are terms we’re all familiar with, but what about a chicken sitter? Just as you would when leaving beloved fido for a few days, a chicken sitter is a trusted individual or group that can take care of your chickens in your absence. This might be a friend, neighbour, family member, or even someone from a reputable, trusted chicken sitter directory.
How long can chickens be left alone for?
Leaving your flock to their own devices is a bit different to leaving another pet such as a dog or cat at home. These amazing animals are pretty self-sufficient, so can be left alone for up to 3 days before you should have to consider a chicken sitter. This being said, it won’t do your chooks any harm either, should you want someone to keep a beady eye on them even if you’re only going away for the night! Most importantly, chickens need constant access to food and water that won’t run out, and enough space in their enclosure to move around.
Whilst chickens are relatively low-maintenance, we still know just how important it is to you to make sure your feathered babies will be well looked after when you’re not there. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of these essentials that will help not only the lucky chosen chicken sitter, but also for you to feel reassured, and of course for your chooks to remain safe, comfortable, and happy during your time away, regardless of how experienced (or inexperienced!) your chicken sitter is. Now, are you ready to bid bye-bye to the girls for a few days? Here are the essentials.
The essentials
A secure chicken coop
The best way to make sure your chickens are safe is with a predator-resistant coop such as the Eglu Cube from Omlet. Thanks to the unique anti-tunnel skirt, pesky predators will be deterred from trying to break or dig through the coop, meaning that you can be assured that your hens will have the best levels of protection whilst you relax on holiday. Take a read of our How Strong Are Eglu Cube Chicken Coops? where our Eglu Cube chicken coop was really put to the test (p.s. It survived a black bear attack!).
As well as being incredibly secure, all of the Eglu chicken coops have been expertly designed to be super simple to clean. So whether your hens are in the capable hands of an eggspert chicken keeper or amateur Auntie Alice, looking after chickens has never been easier. The Eglu Cube’s smooth, wipe-clean surfaces and slide-out droppings tray mean that your chicken sitter can have your hens’ home sparkling clean in just minutes! Watch this clip to see how sensationally speedy Cube coop cleaning can be.
Hentertainment
It’s key to make sure that your chickens stay hentertained whether you’re there or not. Having bored chickens can lead to unwanted behaviour such as egg eating, so it’s important to keep their brains mentally stimulated. And just as with other pets, you can encourage this through play. Make sure that your hens have an unrivalled garden setup before your travels, which can be created using toys such as the Caddi Treat Holder and Pendant Peck Toy, which can easily be refilled by your chicken sitter. Not only do chicken toys provide chooks with hours of entertainment, but also help to improve coop hygiene by keeping food off the ground – even less cleaning for your chickens’ provisional parent!
Poultry playground essentials
Another great addition for your hens before you go is the PoleTree Customisable Chicken Perch. Choose the perfect perch kit for your flock, assemble it in a few simple steps, and your chickens will do the rest! It’s a great opportunity for your chickens to show off their impressive perching skills to their sitter too!
If you’re happy to keep your chickens free ranging with your chicken sitter, the Freestanding Chicken Perch will suit your poultry playground perfectly. Just like the Poletree Chicken Perch, the Freestanding Chicken Perch is completely customisable, so will keep your chickens hentertained, with the perches adjusted to their abilities and needs. Don’t forget to set up your perch before heading off, and give your hens the chance to get used to their new accessory.
An automatic chicken coop door
An automatic chicken coop door is next on our chicken sitter essentials list. This is a must-have if you want to ensure your hens’ routine remains the same whilst you’re away. Omlet’s Autodoor allows users to choose from 3 unique settings to fit their lifestyles. Opt for the light setting and your Autodoor can be automated to close at dusk and open at dawn. The time setting means that you can choose an exact time for the door to open and close, whilst the manual setting gives chicken keepers the option to control the door however they wish.
This makes the Autodoor perfect for when leaving your chickens with a sitter, knowing that you can still remain in control of bantam bedtime. What’s more, the Autodoor has built-in safety sensors, meaning that you needn’t worry about any feathery obstructions getting trapped.
If you haven’t quite got your hands on an Eglu chicken coop just yet, then the Autodoor can still be attached to any wooden chicken coop, maximising the security of your chickens’ enclosure whilst you’re on holiday.
The ultimate thank you gift!
You’ve made it a week away from your chickens! No doubt, you’ve missed your flock tremendously but know that they have been left in capable hands following our chicken sitter essentials guide! By now, your chicken sitter is already convinced to get a few of their own (if they haven’t already!), but it’s also time to say thanks with the ultimate thank you gift, and what better than a kitchen accessory to store the delicious eggs your hens have been laying all week.
Omlet’s Egg Skelter is a great choice, coming in 3 colours to fit the design of any home. It’s also an eggcellent way of keeping hens’ eggs in date order, to ensure optimum freshness. Alternatively, go for the Egg Ramp as the ultimate chicken sitter thank you gift. The bold design stores up to 12 eggs and conveniently keeps them at room temperature.
Leaving any pet behind isn’t easier, regardless of how long you decide to go away for. Most importantly, is that you are confident in who you have decided to leave your chickens with, But with these chicken sitter essentials, it will mean happy holidays for you and as less stress as possible for your chooks!
April 24th is National Pet Parent Day, and we thought we would take the opportunity to find out more about what the Omlet community are like as dog owners. Take the quiz and get a customized gift idea for your pooch. We’d love to hear your results! So, what type of dog parent are you?
How much research did you do before getting your dog?
Not much, I just saw them and knew they were the right dog for me.
A lot. I knew what characteristics I wanted in a dog, and once I had narrowed it down to a few breeds I spoke to owners and met with breeders to make sure we made the right decision.
No research. I grew up with dogs of this breed, so I know them and would never go for another breed.
Absolutely none. I know very little about dogs.
It was quite an impulse purchase; I sometimes wish I had done a bit more research.
Where does your dog sleep?
We did get them a super luxurious dog bed, but it’s been unused as they just sleep in my bed.
To start with we had a crate, but now they sleep on a memory foam dog bed downstairs, and they love it.
In a dog bed by the back door. They’ve got a dog flap so they can go in and out whenever they want.
Sometimes in their bed, sometimes in my bed, sometimes on the sofa.
The neighbor had a spare dog bed we inherited; it seems to work fine.
How do you celebrate your dog’s birthday?
Well last year we just had a picnic in the park with all his friends and played games and had cake, but I’m thinking this year we might rent a dog play place and do a proper doggy birthday.
We might go for an extra adventurous walk.
Sorry? I don’t even know when my dog’s birthday is.
My partner keeps track of when it is and might get them a little gift.
I normally fry up a sausage or some meatballs to give them for dinner.
Does your dog get to meet a lot of other dogs?
My dog has more friends than I do – it’s a nightmare trying to keep up with their social schedule!
We do socializing on walks, but I don’t always trust other dog owners so try to keep it short.
They are very friendly with the other dogs in the neighborhood.
Yeah, most of my friends have dogs so their dogs have become my dog’s friends.
I’m not sure my dog likes other dogs.
What does your dog have for dinner?
I get a special dog food that’s locally produced, made from only organic, natural ingredients. It’s expensive, but my dog deserves the best.
I researched the best dog food for my breed, and that’s what they get. We do give them treats when training, but I don’t think dogs should have human food.
Dog biscuits.
Some kind of dog food, normally just whatever is on offer at the supermarket.
They get normal dog food, but also quite a lot of the food dinner the children don’t finish.
What does your dog do when you go on vacation?
My dog has got a passport, so they always come with us wherever we go. They need a holiday as well!
They go to the kennel.
If we’re just going for a weekend they can look after themselves with some walking help from the neighbors. If we go for longer, they stay with my parents.
These days we tend to just go on vacations where we can bring the dog.
Friends and family, but people seem to be getting a bit tired of being asked.
Mostly 1s – The Doting Dog Parent
You absolutely adore your dog – in your eyes they are perfect. The most important thing for you is that your pooch knows they are loved, so you do everything you can to make sure they have the best time possible.
We assume your dog is pretty trendy, so we would suggest getting a new luxurious dog collar with a matching dog lead?
Mostly 2s – The Responsible Dog Parent
You got a dog because you wanted them to be a part of the family, but you won’t allow them to become a problem for you. You took them to puppy class and still do regular training to make sure they don’t pick up any bad habits. It has been worth it, now you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the cuddles.
We trust you have everything essential, but we’re also sure your pooch will love a new dog toy. Omlet has got a great range that will keep your dog entertained!
Mostly 3s – The Dogs are Dogs Dog Parent
Your dog is super important to you, but a dog is not an accessory to carry around. You think dogs are happiest when they have a job to do, so you make sure your dog gets to work their brain and body. Maybe they’re a farm dog, or maybe they herd sheep, take part in hunts or compete in agility competitions.
We think your good boy or girl might like a new super soft and luxurious dog blanket to keep them warm and cozy after a long, adventure-filled day outside.
Mostly 4s – The Accidental Dog Parent
You don’t really know how you ended up a dog parent, and even if you now really like it, it was never the plan. You’ve had to learn on the job, and sometimes it seems a bit overwhelming, but you know your dog loves you and that they are happy and healthy, and that’s a great feeling.
Get ready for a great summer with your furry friend with Omlet’s memory foam dog cooling mat, a self-cooling addition to your dog’s bed that will keep them chilled for up to three hours.
Mostly 5s – The Very Relaxed Dog Parent
Yes, it’s true your dog is a bit of a pain sometimes, pulling the leash and stealing food from kitchen counters, but it’s not the end of the world – they’re a dog after all! Your dog is truly a part of the family, and you can always do a bit of training later on.
How about treating your pooch to a new comfortable dog bed? We think a colorful Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed might be perfect for the two of you!
The Omlet Eglu Go UP Raised Chicken Coop will keep your hens safe all year round!
One of the main reasons why people get chickens is, of course, for the freshly laid eggs! Waking up to find eggs in the morning is one of the biggest joys of being a chicken keeper, and you’ll rarely ever be in short supply because of how frequently hens lay! While factors such as age, the time of year, and illness can affect how often your chickens produce eggs, you can generally expect a happy and healthy hen to lay an egg for you every day. If you notice that your chicken is not laying at all however, you may in fact have a rooster! Read through one of our previous blogs How to Tell a Cockerel From a Hen to find out more on this topic. So, what exactly do you do after you find your hen has laid an egg, and how long can chicken eggs stay in the coop for?
So, How Long Can Chicken Eggs Stay in the Coop?
Ideally, a freshly laid egg should be collected from your chicken coop nesting box as soon as possible and you should not leave eggs in the coop overnight if you can help it. While it’s true that eggs should not be left in the chicken coop for a prolonged period because it makes them susceptible to becoming contaminated with salmonella bacteria, it’s not solely for this reason. In fact, eggs can actually be left in the coop for 4-5 weeks and still be fresh to eat. This is because unwashed eggs have a protective bloom, or cuticle, which naturally prevents bacteria from the outside of the egg from entering inside. When you wash eggs, this bloom is then also washed away. Therefore, you do not have to wash fresh eggs unless soiled.
Why Should Chicken Eggs Not Be Left in the Coop for Too Long?
One of the other main reasons why you should not leave eggs in the coop for too long is because of the risk of your chickens eating their own eggs. Although it might sound like strange behavior, the longer you leave your chickens’ eggs in the coop, the more time they have to break them and begin feasting! You can read more about this topic in a previous blog where we spoke aboutwhy some chickens do this and what you can do to stop this behavior. Furthermore, the smell of broken eggs attracts chicken predators such as racoons and rats, who could also be stealing your hens’ eggs to eat.
Collecting eggs frequently will also help you to prevent your hens from going broody. A broody hen will sit on her egg all day, every day for up to 21 days, if not broken. This could prove an issue as you still need to ensure your hen is provided with adequate food and water, which of course will be difficult with a chicken that won’t move!
Fortunately, the Omlet Eglu Go UP Raised Chicken Coop has been designed to make it simple for chicken keepers to collect eggs. The easy to clean roosting bars and nesting box, along with a large and accessible back door, make for enjoyable and effortless egg collecting. All Omlet chicken coops are also predator resistant, so you can be assured that not only will your hens remain safe, but their eggs from being stolen too!
How To Tell if an Egg Has Gone Bad
It can be tricky to keep track of how fresh your eggs are if you’re unsure of how long they’ve been sitting in your hen’s nest box, or your egg basket if you have already collected them. Luckily, there are a few methods out there that can help you tell whether your eggs are still good to eat.
The Visual Test
First and foremost, you can carry out a visual inspection of your egg. Start by having a check of the shell, which should appear undamaged if your egg is still good to eat. Signs to look out for include any slime or cracks on the shell, as well as a powdery feel. Should you notice any of these, then your eggs could either be moldy or contain bacteria and are therefore unsafe to eat. If the shell of your egg appears to be normal but you’re still dubious, crack the egg open. If any of the insides of your egg is unusually discolored i.e. are pink or green, then your egg has gone bad and should not be consumed.
The Smell Test
Next, is the smell test. When you crack open a fresh egg, it should not smell. An egg that has gone off, however, will have a distinct, foul odor, similar to a “stink bomb”. In some circumstances where an egg has gone really bad, you may even be able to smell it before even cracking its shell open!
The Float Test
Another way you can tell how old your eggs are is by conducting the float test, which measures the air pocket of your egg. The amount of air inside an egg is an indication of its age, and the more air inside means the older it is. All you have to do for this one is to fill up a bowl or glass with water, which you should then place your suspected egg/s into. If your egg floats, then your egg has gone off, but if your egg sinks, then it’s still fresh!
To ensure optimum freshness and reduce waste, it’s a good idea to use a chicken egg marking date stamp after collecting your chickens’ eggs from their coop. Simply mark your eggs with food-grade ink with the date of lay as an easy way to keep a record of your hens’ eggs.
How Often Should You Collect Chicken Eggs?
Collecting fresh eggs from the hen house should be done at least once a day, and if possible, twice. Egg-laying times can differ from hen to hen but generally speaking, most will lay by the late morning, so it’s best to do the first collection around this time. If you are doing a second collection of the day, check for any fresher eggs later in the evening. However, there are specific circumstances that mean as a chicken keeper, you may have to occasionally collect eggs more often.
If you’re experiencing that your chickens are eating their own eggs, for example, you should check their nesting box four times a day and collect any new or previously missed eggs. If this helps to break the habit, you’ll be able to resume your usual collecting regime after a few days. As well as this, the time of year may also impact how often you should collect eggs, as we will discuss below.
Hens can comfortably nest in their Omlet Eglu Classic Coop.
How Long Can Eggs Stay in the Coop in Spring and Summer?
The answer to how long you can keep fresh eggs in the coop before storing them inside is dependent on the climate of where you keep your chickens. The outside climate, in turn, affects the temperature of your coop, especially those made of wood.The warmer the temperature, the easier your eggs can spoil. If you’re experiencing a particularly hot summer, if left in the coop, your eggs will start going bad more so at 3 weeks as opposed to 4.
How Long Can Eggs Stay in the Coop in Autumn and Winter?
Late autumn and winter as a chicken keeper can bring challenges, which means making a few adjustments for you and your flock. Use these tips to keep your chickens fit and healthy this winter, but a good place to start is by providing your hens with additional chicken vitamins and minerals to help their immune systems. Regarding eggs, something to note as a chicken keeper over this period is that most breeds of chicken will either stop or reduce their egg-laying output as there is less daylight, although some owners combat this by using artificial light in the chicken coop so that they have a supply of eggs throughout the year.
If your hen is still laying this time of year, their eggs can spoil very quickly as a result of freezing. As an egg freezes, the inside of the egg expands and the shell cracks, now making it unsafe to eat. At -0.45°C, an egg white will freeze and at -0.58°C, the yolk will too, so you’ll need to be quick when it comes to collecting and storing your hens’ eggs in cold weather! Fortunately, well-insulated chicken coops, alongside using a chicken coop temperature protection jacket will prevent eggs from freezing.
Can the Type of Chicken Coop Affect How Long Eggs Can Stay in the Coop?
When it comes to keeping chickens, deciding which coop to get is one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make. While your hens’ eggs hopefully won’t be in the nesting box for too long, it’s wise to consider how you can maximize keeping your eggs fresh for longer by choosing a suitable coop. Both wooden and plastic chicken coops have their advantages and disadvantages, however, in terms of practicality, plastic chicken coops definitely take the lead.
Plastic Chicken Coops
Plastic chicken coops such as the Omlet Eglu Cube Large Chicken Coop and Run, Eglu Go Chicken Coop, and Eglu Go UP Raised Chicken Coop have excellent ventilation systems, which mean your chickens (and their eggs) will remain cool in warm weather, and not freeze in cold weather. Another overarching advantage of plastic chicken coops is the potential issue with red mite, a parasitic mite that can infest your chickens’ coop and suck their blood! While red mite can be treated, prevention is always better than the cure. Plastic chicken coops make it very difficult for red mites to live in, as opposed to wooden coops where mites love to get stuck in.
Concerning how this will affect your eggs, is that a red mite infestation could mean your hens will completely stop laying altogether, and if they are still producing eggs, you may notice red spots on the shell. These are squashed red mites, which now mean your eggs are inedible.
Wooden Chicken Coops
The main advantage of wooden chicken coops is their traditional appearance. An issue with wooden chicken coops is that wood is not a very good thermal insulator. What this means is that when the weather warms up outside, the temperature inside of your coop will quickly increase too. As we learnt earlier, this becomes an issue over the summer when of course, eggs will go bad at a quicker rate due to the high temperatures.
What Can You do to Make your Chickens’ Eggs Better
Your chickens’ general health goes hand in hand with the quality and quantity of eggs they produce. Therefore, as a chicken keeper, it’s fundamental to remain responsible for their wellbeing to not only prevent illness but to also ensure they continue to lay tasty eggs! If you’re struggling to tell which of your chickens are laying, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to find out.
In our previous blog8 Ways To Make Your Chickens Lay More Eggs, we discussed the importance of feeding your hens a good quality feed. If you’re unsure of what to look out for, a good feed should be made up of between 16-20% protein, depending on the age of your chickens. Additionally, chickens should regularly be fed plenty of calcium, often in the form of oyster shells. You can also use a natural supplement chicken eggshell improver if your hen’s eggshells feel particularly soft or weak.
Putting Eggs in the Fridge to Last Longer, does it Work?
When we think about keeping food, particularly animal products, fresh, we all acknowledge the importance of storing these products in a fridge (or freezer). When it comes to supermarket eggs, in the UK and the rest of Europe, eggs are typically not refrigerated, whereas, in the US, they are! So, what about the freshly laid eggs from our backyard hens? Well, the answer to this question still remains largely unanswered by the chicken keeping community, with are arguments on both sides as to which way will make your eggs last the longest. You can read more about this on a previous blog we wrote on storing chicken eggs.However, the rule of thumb is that you should store eggs below 68°F (room temperature) once they have been collected. So, whether this is in or out of the fridge in a basket, box, or chicken egg skelter, is your choice!
Conclusion
Although it might seem like a simple question, there’s really no simple, “one size fits all” answer to how long you can keep your hens’ eggs in the coop! In summary, you should collect eggs at least once a day, regardless of the time of year. Just be mindful of factors such as the weather that could make your eggs spoil sooner, and act accordingly by collecting more frequently. If in doubt, go ahead and test the various methods to help you determine if your egg is good to eat!
Providing your small pets with enough exercise and activity is extremely important for their mental and physical well-being. An under stimulated rabbit or guinea pig will easily become bored, which can result in unwanted behaviors and a lot of frustration. Luckily, there are things you as an owner can do to encourage movement and introduce more excitement into their lives. Here are some of our top tips:
Provide more space
It might seem obvious, but it’s much easier for a rabbit or guinea pig to get enough exercise if they have plenty of space to move around on. Extend their current run, add new playpens, or set up a room in the house or area of the garden where your pets can securely roam free.
Change things up
New things will excite and stimulate your rabbits and guinea pigs. However, they don’t need a completely new home every month to stay interested. Regularly swapping toys around or changing the setup of their hutch and run by moving accessories to new places will encourage them to explore, stimulating both brain and body!
Get them foraging
Rabbits and guinea pigs instinctively love searching for food. You can help them live out this natural interest by hiding treats in their enclosure, stuffing hay into small nooks or putting leaves, fruit and vegetables in a Caddi Treat Holder. Anything that gets your pets working for the reward of some really good treats is great in terms of activating them!
Level up
Adding guinea pig and rabbit platforms to your enclosure is a great way of utilizing all the space available. Guinea pigs will love running down ramps, and rabbits can use their long leg muscles to jump up onto platforms or steps. As if that wasn’t enough, rabbits especially love sitting up high and inspecting their surroundings, so giving them a lookout space is going to be very popular!
Digging opportunities
While it might not apply to the average guinea pig, you will struggle to find a rabbit that doesn’t absolutely love digging. If you don’t want them to ruin the lawn, giving them a designated digging pit is a good idea. A large plant pot or tray with loose soil will be a great start. You can also put some crumpled up newspaper in the bottom for your rabbit to shred.
Get involved with the playing
If your pet is comfortable with it, a great way of activating them is to play together. Get down to their level and give them some time to get used to your presence. Eventually they will likely approach you and you can slowly introduce games and interactive playing. You can bring toys and treats for encouragement, depending on what your pet likes.
Some rabbits and guinea pigs can also be mentally stimulated by learning tricks. We’ve got a blog on how to train your small pet if you think this might be for you!
Teeth exercise
Rabbits’ and guinea pigs’ teeth never stop growing, so to keep them in tip top shape your pets will need something to grind them down with. A constant supply of hay is the most important thing, but you can also give them gnaw toys and pet friendly branches to nibble on.
Give them a space to rest
While it’s important to give your pets enough space and opportunities to move and exercise, it’s just as important to make sure they have places in their home where they can settle down and relax. Being prey animals, they will benefit from having somewhere secluded to return to where they know they will be safe. This could be snuggling down in the bedding of their hutch, or peeking out from a shelter on the run.
Fall is a season of change for chickens. They will usually molt at this time of year, which will make them a little uncomfortable when the temperature dips. They will be hungrier than ever while the new feathers sprout, and a few added treats in their diet will be well received. As ever, though, it’s a give-and-take situation when you’re keeping chickens, as the hens will repay your kindness with lots of droppings and soiled bedding, which are great fuel for your fall compost.
Keeping chickens in the fall
Fall is the time for backyard bonfires, as the year’s dead vegetation is consigned to the flames. Chickens will head straight for any ashes left over from a bonfire to have a good peck-and-scratch, so make sure these have cooled down before letting the chickens get to work. If anyone nearby is planning a firework or bonfire party, make sure the hens are safely in their coop before the fun begins – it’s not much fun at all for a chicken caught in the firework crossfire.
Before lighting those bonfires, check to make sure no chickens have decided to shelter there instead of heading home to the coop. While you’re at it, shoo out any hedgehogs, toads or other wildlife. The base of a cozy woodpile is a tempting place for a small animal to seek shelter from the storm!
Not all the backyard waste will be burned, of course. Leaves, weeds and leftovers from the vegetable beds can be added to the compost. This is a good time to give your compost heap a good turn with a pitchfork, mixing the soiled hen coop bedding, chicken droppings and other goodies together so that they can work their magic next year. Only use soiled bedding, as clean sawdust takes a long time to rot down and can, in excess, ‘kill’ the compost.
Cold weather, chicken eggs and chicken feathers
For most hens, egg-laying will still be regular as the season progresses, but there will be a fall in production as the days get shorter and the weather gets colder. If you have lights in your coop to boost egg production, this won’t be an issue.
Chickens often molt in the fall, so they need a good diet and a constant supply of grit to help them stay healthy and grow new feathers. Extra vitamins and minerals will help, and a little apple cider vinegar in their water will help ensure a healthy, glossy new plumage. Dried mealworms add a little protein boost to a hen’s diet, which can be very useful during the molt.
What do you feed chickens in the fall?
Although winter is looming, this time of year is actually a great season for hungry chickens. There are lots of juicy bugs to scratch for in the still-soft ground and leaf litter, and if you have any fruit trees, there are rich pickings for the birds in the shape of windfalls. A Halloween pumpkin, seeds included, will give the hens lots to get excited about.
These treats should not be too plentiful, though, as the hens will need to be hungry enough to eat lots of their usual layers pellets to ensure maximum health for the colder months ahead. A less filling treat is a pile of fall leaves – there will be a few bugs in there, but not too many. The hens will absolutely love scratching and pecking their way through the leaves, though!
Coops should be thoroughly cleaned before the winter sets in. Everything should be scrubbed, and you can use a Diatomaceous Earth product to keep lice and mites at bay.
How to care for the chicken coop in the fall
As the nights draw in, it’s important to lock the door of your chicken coop promptly at dusk, to make sure night-prowling predators don’t try to snatch an early supper. The coop and run will need to be checked to make sure they are predator-proof after the wear and tear of the year. With food less plentiful in the cold months, chicken predators such as rats, foxes and weasels may be tempted to check for holes in the chicken wire, or may dig their way under poorly secured fencing.
Rats will often try to take up residence by burrowing under a chicken shed in the fall. It’s difficult for chicken keepers to deter them completely, but you can deter them by placing cat or dog poo in the entrance to their burrows. The smelly stuff won’t bother the chickens.
If you have a wooden chicken coop, fix any holes in walls and roofs. If you have a weatherproof coop such as the Eglu Cube, your hens are in for a very cozy late fall and winter.
At some point late in the season, when you’re finally resigned to the fact that the summer isn’t coming back this year and the cold weather lies ahead, give your hens a health check. A healthy fall hen is well set for the winter and will already be looking forward to scratching through the snow and dreaming of spring!
Chickens are not only great companions, but also a great way of being more resourceful, providing you with a frequent supply of fresh eggs. However, you could have a problem on your hands if you begin to notice that a few eggs are going missing. Sometimes chickens develop a bad habit of eating their own eggs, which although is not detrimental to their health, is a sure sign that something is not right.
Your Chickens are Bored
Your poor chickens may simply be suffering from boredom! Boredom in chickens can occur when they either don’t have enough space to roam, or they’re lacking facilities to keep them entertained.
For a happy hen, they need a bare minimum of 1 square meter each in their run, however 2 square meters plus (per hen) is always preferable. Chicken toys are also a fantastic way to keep your chickens entertained. How about trying out theOmlet Pendant Peck Toy, an interactive and engaging feed toy that not only improves flock behavior but will provide your hens with the mental stimulation they desire.
Dehydration
Chickens that eat their eggs may be dehydrated. Since eggs contain a large amount of water, your chickens may be resorting to eating them simply to keep themselves hydrated.
To stop egg eating behavior, make sure that your hens are supplied with a clean water bowl/feeder at all times. During the warmer summer months, chickens need a lot more of it, so add some ice to their bowl or feeder to make sure they stay on top of hydration.
Vitamin Deficiency
A vitamin deficiency can be another reason as to why your hens have turned to egg eating. Your chicken’s diet is fundamental to their wellbeing, and a poor one could be depriving them of their nutritional requirements. Along with eating eggs, broken eggs can be another indication that your chicken is vitamin deficient, more specifically suffering with a calcium deficiency.
It’s important to provide your chickens with a balanced diet of enough protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, so although they naturally forage, you should supply your chickens with a good quality feed. For added calcium, it’s recommended to add grit, a ground hard substance, to your chicken’s diet, which aids with digestion. Surprisingly, you can feed your hens crushed eggshells, or alternatively, you can use crushed oyster shells – a high calcium, soluble grit.
Inadequate Nesting Facilities
Your nesting box needs to be a secure and safe space for your hens. Egg eating can occur when your hens are uncomfortable with the nesting box, most commonly due to the bedding itself or exposing your chickens to too much light.
First of all, make sure that their nesting area has adequate bedding and is made of a comfortable nesting material. There are a number of choices of bedding to choose for your hens so if you notice that they are not getting on with what you’re currently using, try changing their bedding to see what works best for them. You’ll also want to keep on top of cleaning their bedding by replacing it weekly, also removing any droppings.The Eglu chicken coops make for easy cleaning, with integrated and private nesting boxes, whilst offering plenty of space that your hens will love.
An Anxious or Stressed Chicken
Chickens found to be eating eggs can also be suffering from stress or anxiety, which your hens can be experiencing for a number of reasons. Stress-inducing scenarios can be related to either handling, a new environment, the introduction of new chickens, extreme heat, or regular visits from predators.
Having an anxious hen isn’t pleasant for either you or them but fear not, as there are steps you can take to help minimize stress to help your egg eaters. Some stressful situations are easier to tackle than others, such as introducing new chickens or handling if these are two stressors. Take a look at Omlet’s guide onintroducing new chickens for some more help.
Still Struggling?
If you’ve tried all of the above, ruled out anything medical, and yet your flock remain stubborn with their egg eating habit, here’s what else you can do to try and tackle the problem:
Quickly Collecting Eggs
Quickly collecting eggs once they have been laid will give your chickens, or particular offender if it is just the one hen, less opportunity to eat the eggs. If possible, check the next box four times a day to start with. Hopefully after a few days, this will break the habit, and you can go back to collecting the eggs once a day.
Fake Eggs
Fake eggs can be made of wood, rubber, or ceramics and will leave your chicken pecking but will eventually become frustrated so that they’ll stop attempting to peck at real eggs.
Using Mustard
Create a small hole in your egg, empty the contents and fill with mustard. Mustard is a flavor that (most!) hens can’t stand so after a few attempts, they’ll likely stop attempting to eat eggs.
If you do have an egg eater on your hands, don’t panic! It may seem a bit odd, or the behavior might confuse you but with a few tips you can get the habit well under control. Hopefully next time you go to collect eggs, you’ll have happy laying hens, with your eggs still intact!
As Fourth of July is coming up this weekend we wanted to give you some top tips to help your patriotic pup deal with fireworks. To help us with our list we utilized some advice from renowned dog trainer, Brandon McMillan, to give you some unique methods to help calm your dog this Independence day.
Step 1: Try Using Naturally Calming Oils
One method that can be used to help your dog relax from all of the booms and bangs of fireworks is using essential oils like lavender. By diffusing essential oils, this can help your dog feel a calming effect. However, it is important to make sure that you do not apply the oil directly on your dog’s coat and do not let them ingest these oils as large amounts can be harmful or irritating for your dog. Also, ensure that the essential oil is of good quality and consult with your local veterinarian for further recommendations.
Step 2: Use a Thunder Vest/Shirt
Another great way to help your dog feel protected and help them release calming hormones is by using a thunder shirt/vest. It is believed that the evenly applied pressure around the dog’s torso helps release calming effects on your dog. In his Youtube video that we link to below, Brandon tries a thunder shirt on a jack russell terrier that has anxiety.
Although this method may seem a little unorthodox, mimicking the popping and crackling of fireworks with bubble wrap can help desensitize your dog gradually to fireworks. In his video, Brandon at first pops the bubble wrap further away from the dog and does one pop at a time with a treat reward after each pop. He also allowed the dog to smell the bubble wrap so that they could see that it was not a threat. Brandon continued this method one “pop” at a time and gradually the dog was more relaxed. If your dog seems to get very anxious or upset from the popping sounds, slow down the pace and try the process again at a later time.
Step 4: Play Calming Music
This is a very simple step that anyone can do to help their dog feel more zen and distracted from other sounds. Have Alexa play a classical track, or maybe your dog likes a little smooth jazz. Try out some different music genres on your dog and see which one is the most calming to them.
We hope these 4 tips bring your canine companion a little peace of mind this Independence day. For more dog training tips and tricks follow Brandon McMillan here on his Youtube channel. Happy 4th of July!
Birds are extremely affectionate pets that love to thrive in a family environment. You don’t need to be a bird expert to keep a small bird under your roof. However, if you want it to thrive and be happy and healthy, there are a few things to consider.
Omlet offers you a list of 5 things to keep in mind when raising a budgie.
1- Consider investing in a cage that respects your pet and its needs
If you decide to adopt a bird, this should be a priority. Make sure you have a cage that meets your bird’s needs and allows it to be happy. A bird needs enough space to stretch its wings and have fun. Make sure the cage is large enough and that it gets enough sunlight. Your bird will need to see light to be able to thrive.
Budgies fly horizontally and do not fly high, so make sure the cage is wide enough.
It is important to choose a cage that is easy to clean, as you will need to spend time keeping your bird’s area clean. This is essential for your bird’s health (and yours). Budgies need to relieve themselves on a regular basis, approximately every 15 minutes, so you need to have easy access to all areas of the cage so that you can clean the entire cage and avoid unpleasant odors and a dirty environment for your little budgie.
You should also consider a cage that can accommodate several birds. Although birds can be kept alone, they do prefer the company of their own kind.
The Omlet solution: The Geo Cage
The Omlet Geo Cage for Budgies, Finches and Canaries complies with current regulations to provide your pet with the space it needs. Its innovative design provides a safe and airy living space for your budgies. This cage is the result of many years of research to provide your birds with an optimal environment to keep them happy.
This cage not only meets the needs of your budgies but is also functional and can be cleaned quickly and easily. The inside of the cage will be as good as new after your visit. In addition, The Omlet Geo Cage for Budgies, Finches and Canaries offers an exceptional design that allows it to be integrated into any interior decoration.
The cage is extremely important, as is its location. Remember to place the cage in a room with stable temperatures: not too hot, not too cold. Also avoid rooms that are too noisy with too much traffic and activity. Your birds need peace and quiet. A bright room will make your little bird happy. However, avoid placing the cage too close to windows, as the sun through the glass and the intense heat can be dangerous, or even fatal to your pet.
2- Don’t skimp on accessories
Taking care of your bird is not only about giving it a place to sleep, it is also about allowing it to have fun and discover many things through a variety of accessories. The bathtub is not a trivial accessory: budgies love to stay clean. There are many plastic tubs available that allow your bird to clean itself and feel clean all the time. Choose a bathtub that fits your cage and can easily be installed in it. It should be easy to fill from the outside.
At Omlet, we offer a Geo Bird Bath that fits our Geo cage and its sloping sides perfectly.
Technique for the bathtub: do not fill it to the brim, as you will find water everywhere. The tub should not be too small to allow your bird to enjoy it fully, but it should not be too large either, so that it does not take up all the space in the cage. If the bathtub you have chosen fits easily into your bird’s cage, you may want to consider adding it for a few hours while your bird takes a bath and removing it the rest of the time.
You should also consider quality drinkers and feeders that will allow you to feed your beloved animals properly and without hindrance.
If your bird can clean itself and stretch its wings, it is likely to thrive and feel happy. However, it is necessary to keep it occupied with toys.
So think about furnishing its space with useful accessories that entertain your budgie. Vary the shapes, sizes and aspects to offer your pet new experiences.
Perches for birds are extremely important for your birds and play a significant part in ensuring a better lifestyle. Choose perches with a wooden base, such as pine, as plastic fails to offer the proper grip that your bird needs, and can be bad for their feet.
Bird toys have their place in your pet’s cage, but avoid taking up the whole space. It is important to have several types of toys that you can mix up on a weekly basis to give them more variety and keep your bird entertained.
Toys stimulate your pet and prevent your bird from getting bored.
3- A happy bird is a well-fed bird
There are several ways to take care of your bird and the first way is to feed it sufficiently with quality food. What does a bird eat? Your birds’ favorite foods are seeds, vegetables and fruit. Just like other animals, dogs, cats (etc), never give your birds chocolate and caffeine.
It is essential to ensure that the drinker is always full of water to keep your animals properly hydrated. Your birds will know how much water they need but it must be available to them. If the water is not drunk, it is essential that you change it regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
4- Birds need quality sleep!
Sleep is essential for your bird. It allows your pet to rest its body and recharge its batteries. Just like human beings, sleep helps reduce stress and promotes your pet’s learning and memory. It is estimated that a budgie can sleep between 10 and 12 hours a day. A happy budgie is one that benefits from this rest time in the best conditions.
It usually prepares for bed half an hour before going to sleep. You can improve the sleeping conditions of your bird by providing an opaque blanket, which does not let light in and ensures that your bird gets the rest it deserves. This solution also allows you to soundproof the cage a little if there is regular activity in the room. It is sufficient to keep the room dark and to let a little light through so that your birds are not injured if they hear a noise that wakes them up. The Omlet Geo Bird Cage Cover offers your birds an ideal solution for a full and restful night’s sleep. It can be placed on any cage and allows your birds to sleep safely.
Establish a routine each night so that your birds feel comfortable and understand when it is time to go to bed. They will feel confident that there is nothing to worry about and will fall asleep peacefully.
However, if you notice that your bird(s) panic when you put the blanket on the cage, don’t persist. Some birds have their own habits and there is no point in insisting on certain accessories. If your bird is happy and can sleep perfectly and peacefully without a cover, that is the main thing.
5- Give your bird lots of love and get it used to its environment
For a bird to be happy and healthy, nothing is more important than the love you give them in a healthy environment adapted to their needs. Never rush your bird and give it time to adapt to any situation, new environment, new toys or accessories…
Don’t hesitate to talk to your bird and make it feel your presence without smothering it. Repeat its name to get it used to the sound and to assimilate it. If there are several of you in the family environment, introduce the members of your family little by little without rushing your pet. No loud noises or big movements. Your friends or family can enjoy your bird, but in a calm and respectful way.
Treats and time with your pet will make your bird happy. Make sure you spend time with your bird. This will strengthen the bond between you. Gaining your pet’s trust is a long-term process. You can use your fingers to tame your pet little by little, for example by moistening them and placing seeds on them. Intrigued and curious, your bird will surely come to you.
Do not hesitate to open the cage from time to time to let your bird fly in the open air in a room. Just remember to avoid bright lights that may attract your bird and end up hurting it (sunlight through a window, for example). If you decide to let your bird fly in your home, be careful with objects that could either break, or hurt your pet. The room should be secure enough to prevent your budgie from ending up in the vet’s office.
An unhappy bird may become aggressive or develop health problems. This can manifest itself in regular pecking or screaming. Your budgie, if unhappy, may be more agitated than usual. If you are sure that you have done all you can to keep him happy and his aggressive behavior persists or you detect abnormal problems, it is time to make an appointment with the vet. In fact, one visit per year to the vet is recommended to check that everything is going well with your pet.
With all these tips and tricks, your bird can be happy and thrive by your side. All you need is patience and the right equipment and accessories for your pet’s needs.
This article is a part of our Pride of Omlet series, a collection of amazing stories which shine the spotlight on extraordinary pets and share their selflessness, bravery, talent and compassion with the world.
-Written by Anneliese Paul
Henni Hen is a teaching assistant by trade. A cute and cuddly chicken who loves children. She follows in the footsteps of her bubbly humans, Hamish and Verity.
Verity hatches chicks in an incubator every year at the primary school in Kent, where she works as a reception teacher. It’s a highlight for the children in Spring, with lots of learning opportunities and fluffy little chicks make Easter even more special.
It was natural for Henni to become a teaching assistant at an early age. She was, after all, born in a school. Henni helped the children with course work and became the subject of many good literacy and science lessons.
But Henni’s talent lies in her ability to help children read. Henni can’t read herself, but children who wouldn’t usually read to an adult began taking Henni to beanbag in a quiet corner where they could get cozy. Henni cuddles up and listens patiently to her young reader, giving the odd encouraging cluck.
When Henni and her sisters became too big for the classroom’s hutch, Verity and Hamish moved into a house with a garden. Instead of rehoming the chicks with local farmers (like they usually did), they decided to take Henni and her sisters home. They’d been talking about getting a dog, but both working full-time, the chickens seemed like a good option.
Most of the time, Henni is outside, like an ordinary chicken, scratching in the garden or getting up as high as she can. But Verity and Hamish potty trained her because she loves coming into the house for a cuddle, and of course, she needs to work.
During the lockdown, the children missed holding Henni. So, Henni sprang into action and delivered both live and recorded lessons from the study that she shares with Verity. Verity read children stories, and Henni sat on her shoulder, making sure the children were listening. The principal called Verity regularly to make sure Henni’s doing ok.
Being a caring soul, Henni also gave to the community over lockdown. Together, Henni and her sisters lay six eggs a day, so Henni and Verity decided to do a doorstep delivery service for their neighbors. At 10 am, Henni would lay an egg and make a lot of noise about it, so all the neighbors knew when their eggs are ready. Then, Henni would hop onto Verity’s shoulder, and together they delivered eggs to all the houses near their neighborhood.
When she returned home, she’d often hop onto her favorite perch (the top of the garage), and the children from the neighborhood would come over to Verity and Hamish’s to see “the one on the roof!”
Henni and her sisters Megg, Gertie, Margot, Ginger, Rona and Nora used to live in a wooden coop in the garden and come into the garage in winter when it was cold, but Verity and Hamish wanted the best for them. So last year, they got a new home, an Omlet Eglu Cube, and now they’re cozy outside all year round.
But Henni still likes to come inside for a cuddle and can often be found sitting on the sofa between Verity and Hamish for a family movie night after a hard week at work.
She’s just an ordinary brown chicken, and she’s low in the pecking order, but she’s got high hopes for the world. She’s very special to the children she teaches and the community she lives in, and of course, to her humans Verity and Hamish. She’s worthy of a gold star for an outstanding effort.
Everyone loves to stroke, cuddle and pamper their pet. Their fur is soft and warm, and stroking a dog or cat can help humans relax and destress. But despite these positives, your pet’s loose hair can invade your living space, settling on carpets, sofas, beds and furniture. It can be difficult to get rid of. So how can you avoid spending hours cleaning up after your pet?
Spring is finally here and the winter fur is starting to fall out. Avoid being overcome with pet hair and make life easier for yourself in the days to come, with the Omlet tips below…
Removing fur to help pet allergies
Do you often have red,swollen eyes, a runny nose and experience persistent sneezing? If so, it could be because of your pet’s fur. Did you know, 40% of European cats are carriers of a bacterium: Bartonella henselae? Researchers thought that this bacteria could only be transmitted through your pet’s scratch, but numerous studies have shown that the bacteria can be transmitted through fur and fleas. This is why it is important to treat your pet and wash your hands after petting it.
Pets affect the quality of the indoor air we breathe. Hair and saliva carry allergens and can cause nose, throat and eye irritation, asthma and breathing difficulties.
So how do you deal with pet hair?
Useful techniques to get rid of hair
Removing pet hair from your home doesn’t have to be a time consuming task. Here’s a few tips and tricks to try…
Brush your pet’s hair regularly, preferably outside, but if that’s not possible, an easy clean area such as the bathroom may be just right. By brushing your pet, you allow it to shed any hair that may have otherwise fallen onto your sofa or other surface in your home. You can gather the hair in one place and you clean it up much more easily and quickly.
Protect furniture and areas where your pet likes to lounge. Your furry friend is bound to have a special place where he likes to spend time napping and grooming, and these areas can become loose fur hotspots! Try covering your pet’s favorite patch with a towel or blanket.
The ultimate appliance: the hoover. Cleaning your home is essential in normal times, and even more so when you have furry pets. This solution seems obvious and yet it is radically effective. Choose a hoover over a broom. A broom tends to make the hair fly around and instead of getting rid of it, you move it around to other surfaces. You can also vary the end caps to suit all surfaces.
Use dishwashing gloves! An original but effective tip. Use a pair of washing-up gloves to pick up your pet’s hair in a circular motion from the desired spot. The hair will stick to the glove and can be rinsed away.
Use moisture to quickly gather the hair into small balls. Take a damp sponge or flannel and wipe the desired area. Some of the hairs will cling to the sponge while others will clump together. This method should be combined with other techniques to effectively remove your pet’s hair.
The well-known method: the adhesive roller. Using an adhesive roller is particularly effective on your clothes, especially if you do not want to wet them with a sponge. The hair will stick to the tape and lift from the material. This technique is super effective on small surfaces. However, the roller soon becomes full of hairs and it is necessary to change the roller regularly if attempting larger surfaces in your home.
Use specific brushes: velvet brushes, electrostatic brushes, etc. There are all kinds of useful brushes on the market. With a simple movement of the hand, they attract the hair to the brush and lift off your soft furnishings.
Static electricity with tights! Don’t just throw away your frayed tights, they can be reused to pick up your pet’s hair. The friction creates static electricity and attracts the hair to the nylon material.
Ventilation: renewing the air to reduce the concentration of hair in one place. Whether you have pets or not, airing your home is essential to prevent the accumulation of dust and bacteria. You will eliminate bad odors and allow for fresh air to circulate the home.
If you really need to keep an area hair-free, the most effective method will be to restrict access to your pet. It may be drastic, but you won’t have to worry about hair in your bedroom causing irritation while you try to sleep, for example.
Your pet’s fur will always be present, and impossible to eliminate entirely, however, these little tricks will help you to considerably reduce the accumulation of hair in your home and allow you and your pet to live in a healthy, comfortable and hygienic environment.
Pets are like children. In search of adventure and new experiences, they will tend not to see the danger. Carefree, they want to touch everything and are always very curious. Greedy by nature, they do not distinguish between what is good or bad for their health. However, even if you are conscientious and careful, your home can often be a source of danger. We have put together a list of 10 products to keep away from your lovely animals.
When owning an animal, there are precautions to take. Be aware that many visits to the vet are caused by poisoning due to ingestion of toxic products. It is therefore important to store certain items in secure cupboards and only use them when your pet isn’t around. Swallowing or breathing toxic substances can be dangerous for your pet and can lead to death. Ensuring that the environment in which your pets grow up is safe should be a universal feeling.
10 items dangerous to pets
We will focus on 10 common products, but this list is not exhaustive and you should use your instinct and common sense to detect any form of danger for your companion.
1. Toxic household products for your pet
Most of the time, these are corrosive products that cause chemical reactions by coming into contact with your pet’s fur or skin or by causing internal burns after ingestion. Detergents should be raised or stored. This includes your dishwashing liquid, hand soap, and laundry detergent. Keep your pet away from any of these products or the foam created by any of these products. The risks: diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, breathing difficulties and even the risk of pneumonia.
Cleaners should also be kept out of the reach of your pets. Often composed of harmful chemicals, they can cause serious risks to your pet. Deodorants, drain openers, bleach and toilet cleaners should also be kept away.
With COVID-19, we tend to leave our disinfectant gels lying around. Be careful that your pets don’t go near them. They could easily want to play with it.
Be careful with garden products for your plants and patio.
In order not to end up at the vet, we advise you to put your products in cupboards, to raise them up high or to opt for non-toxic products. Indeed, some non-toxic products exist in specialized stores and if you have time and desire you can even create them yourself.
Image by Anna Shvets from Pexels
2. Food for Humans
Not all food is good for animals. Chocolate is one example which should not be given to your pet. Don’t leave your cookies lying around on the table (your cat could easily pass by) and watch out for crumbs left on the floor.
Theobromine and caffeine are intolerable substances in our animal friends. When ingested, your pet may start shaking, may have palpitations, abnormal blood pressure, and stomach upset. In severe cases, consuming theses foods can also result in death, therefore, this is not something to be taken lightly and remember to clean up well after eating.
Avocado, grapes and raisins should also be avoided in your dog’s diet, as should alcohol, Xylitol, garlic and macadamia nuts.
3. Pest traps and insecticides
Do you want to get rid of insects or pests? Pay attention to the traps you install. Your pets may want to play with them or be attracted by the smell. The modern bait that we can find on the market uses few chemical and toxic products. However, be sure to read the instructions and restrictions on the packaging. Products to be avoided include substances such as methyl.
Mouse traps are also to be avoided because the food in them may attract your pet. Rat poisoning consists of Cholecalciferol, and anticoagulants, which can cause nerve damage and blood disorders.
Medicines for humans should never be given to an animal. Consider them all as toxic! Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are very good examples. They should not be given to your pet if it is not feeling well.
It is imperative to always consult your vet.
Don’t leave your pet’s medication lying around. Some medications may be flavored to make them easier to swallow. However, they may be perceived by your pet as a treat who could consume an excessive dose by mistake.
Also remember not to mix cat medications with dog medications if you have more than one pet. Professional advice is essential to avoid mistakes and missteps that could result in a trip to the animal hospital!
5. Plants
Stomach problems often cause your pets to chew plants. It is necessary that you check the plants and flowers in your garden and your home to determine if they may be toxic to your pet.
Dogs, for example, cannot tolerate chrysanthemums, yew, amaryllis, cyclamen, rhododendrons, oleanders and narcissus and hyacinth bulbs.
For cats here are some plants to avoid: ficus, Philodendron or Monstera, lily of the valley, cyclamen, aloe, Yucca, Sansevieria…
6. Fertilizers
Fertilizers are potentially dangerous for your animals. They come in many kinds and forms. Depending on the nature of the fertilizer, the toxicity can vary. Choose them well and try to go for as natural as possible. Avoid products composed of phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen, as well as additives such as herbicides and insecticides. The potentially toxic dose in a dog is estimated to be 5g/kg if ingested by your canine animal. Organic fertilizers are not necessarily good for your pet’s health. Always check the packaging or ask for information from specialized professionals.
Image by cottonbro from Pexels
7. Heavy metals
Care should be taken with lead and Zinc, which can have negative effects on your pet. Pick up your pennies when they fall on the floor and don’t leave your coins lying around.
Ingesting heavy metals can cause stomach aches and even lead to anemia.
Also be careful when restoring old buildings and houses, lead could easily be ingested by your pet.
8. Essential oils
Although they have many virtues, essential oils are not harmless. They are powerful active substances that must be kept away from your animals. Essential oils can cause digestive and nervous damage and can cause burns if touched.
9. Nicotine, tobacco and other drugs
Nicotine is as harmful to humans as it is to animals. Do not smoke in front of your pet and avoid leaving a pack of cigarettes on your coffee table. If ingestion or inhalation of high doses occurs, your pet may have respiratory or even cardiac problems.
10. Some cosmetic products
Cosmetic products for humans contain many substances that are often harmful to your pet. Keep your deodorant, varnish, solvents and perfumes away.
Do not brush your pet’s teeth with conventional toothpaste. While fluoride is good for our teeth, it is absolutely not good for our beloved pets. Fluoride is toxic and could be accidentally swallowed by your pet.
My pet has been in contact with an item on this list, what should I do?
If you notice symptoms (red skin, loss of appetite, fever, severe salivation, vomiting, difficulty breathing, joint and abdominal pain, sudden fatigue, etc.), contact a vet immediately. They will tell you what to do. Any information helping to identify the source of the poisoning should be given to the professional contacted.
Do not try to make your pet vomit, give it water or medication, which would only make the situation worse.
Loving your pet also means protecting it from danger. The house is their main playground, protect your pet from these common dangers by taking care to secure them away out of reach.
Dementia is not a uniquely human condition. Many older pets suffer the condition known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS), and the effects are often subtle.
The problem first becomes noticeable when pets’ behavior changes. For example, a dog may not respond to your voice, or will stand with its tail down, looking anxious. Cats may ‘disappear’ for several hours, or even days, and any affected pet may seem suddenly uncertain of its surroundings, sometimes cringing, sometimes running away.
What is pet dementia?
As with human patients, dementia in pets results in memory problems, leading to confusion, disorientation and anxiety. The causes for this are the same as those responsible for Alzheimer’s and other types of human dementia. Destructive proteins may build up in the brain, and these cause individual brain connections to stop working. Plaque build up is another cause, as is a build-up of phosphorus.
Which pets can get dementia?
Cats and dogs are the most common victims of CDS, although other mammals such as rabbits, Guinea
pigs and ferrets may show similar symptoms. Shorter-lived mammals such as hamsters and gerbils are not affected by dementia.
Long-lived birds such as parrots, intriguingly, do not usually show dementia symptoms. Research has shown that they lack a dementia-linked variant of a gene known as GSK, something found in most animals (and even plants). This gene causes the build-up of phosphorous in the brain, and this impacts a protein called tau, which in turn triggers Dementia symptoms.
What are the signs of dementia in pets?
Most animals are very resilient and do not like to let you know when they are in pain. CDS is a different matter, though, as it causes your pet’s natural defenses to go down, and you can often spot the red flags.
These are some of the signs of dementia in pets.
Confusion. In the middle of everyday activity such as a walk or a trip from one room to another, your pet will become indecisive or may bolt for a safe spot for no apparent reason. Other symptoms include growling, raising the hackles, or shaking.
Disorientation. Your cat or dog might become anxious, or stop in its tracks, in a familiar place – even indoors where they spend most of their time. Temporarily forgetting where they are, they may feel trapped, and their panicky or fearful body language – or sounds – will make this clear.
‘Accidents’ indoors. Pets with CDS may suddenly forget that they’re not supposed to relieve themselves indoors. This is often linked to disorientation and confusion rather than loss of bodily control. They may wake up in the night, thinking it’s time for the morning routine of heading outdoors for a morning trip to the bathroom. Cats might forget the location of the litter tray or cat flap.
Odd sleeping patterns. A change in sleeping patterns can be a sign of CDS. Dogs may become restless at night, or sleep away from their usual beds or baskets. Outdoor cats may decide to sleep rather than heading out for their usual night on the tiles, or may be restless during parts of the day when they would usually be curled up and asleep.
Change in personality. Any big change in behavior in an older pet could be an early sign of CDS. An outgoing pet might become withdrawn, and a quiet pet might be grumpy or aggressive. Affected pets might temporarily forget who certain family members are, or might suddenly treat fellow pets with suspicion.
Memory loss. This classic symptom of dementia is often the first sign of CDS in a pet. They will stop responding to commands or may struggle with things they have managed for years, such as stairs and the quickest route home on a walk.
Loss of energy. Although there can be physical sources of sudden ‘laziness’, it is also one of the symptoms of dementia. In addition to not being as active as usual, an affected pet might pace up and down like a caged animal, or stand on the spot gazing around in apparent confusion.
Changes to vocalizing. A quiet pet might start making a lot of noise, or an inveterate ‘woofer’ might fall quiet. There might be an increase in barking or meowing at night.
Change in appetite. This goes both ways – a pet with CDS might become a glutton (forgetting that they’ve already eaten), or might not want to eat at the usual time at all.
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
How can I treat dementia?
There is currently no cure for pet dementia, but there are medicines available to help reduce the symptoms and even slow down the progression of the illness as your pet ages. These treatments are only available from vets, so that’s the place to go as soon as you suspect CDS in your pet.
As ever, prevention is an even better cure, and by keeping your pet active and fit through exercise and games, you can help their bodies and brains alike. Diet plays as big a part in this as exercise, so keep the healthy foodcoming and go easy on the unhealthy snacks. A supplement that includes omega-3 fish oils is very beneficial, too.
Once the CDS has begun to manifest daily, there are still things you can do to make life easier for the afflicted pet.
Don’t make unnecessary changes in the environment in which the pet spends most of its time. Keep furniture where it is, and don’t make changes to the beds or baskets.
Remain calm and don’t change your behavior. If you shout at a cat or dog because it’s soiled the floor, it will only add to the problem and cause your pet’s anxiety levels to rocket.
‘Lead the way’ if disorientation sets in, encouraging your pet to follow you into a room, or back to the house. With dogs, a leash should always be taken when you are on a walk.
Don’t stop family members from interacting with the pet, even if it seems to have temporarily forgotten them.
Play games that help keep the pet’s brain active, like training (if they can manage it) or puzzle games.
Try retraining your dog to sit, stay and come when you call – and retrain those toilet skills too, if possible!
If the vet prescribes medication and a change in diet, make sure you stick to the new routine. Interventions that support brain function, including medicines and food supplements, can make a big difference. Although dementia changes a pet’s life, it does not automatically mean that they will stop enjoying life. You and your pet will continue to enjoy a wonderful pet/owner relationship if you follow the guidelines above.
Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is back in the headlines, and new restrictions have been imposed on chicken keepers. In these circumstances, it is natural to ask whether wild birds present a major risk.
Wild birds are not the main source of the spread of the disease, however, even though they can act as reservoirs for the virus. It is human commercial activities associated with poultry farming that are the major cause of the bird flu’s spread across the world. If you are keeping just a few chickens, most of the risks can be avoided by simple hygiene and protective housing measures.
Avian influenza (bird flu)
As its name suggest, the avian flu virus is a form of influenza (flu) biologically adapted to bird hosts. Avian influenza is not a virus specific to chickens and poultry, and in theory any bird, wild or domestic, can be infected.
Bird flu – good news and bad news
In theory, any species of wild bird can catch the flu. Waterfowl such as geese, swans and ducks are thought to be major carriers of the disease, sometimes displaying no symptoms themselves. Chickens that come into contact with avian influenza are likely to catch it.
But let’s look at the good news first. The risk to human health from wild bird diseases, including avian influenza, are extremely low. In 99.9% of cases, humans affected by the highly virulent H5N1 strain of the bird flu have caught it from intensively reared poultry. The disease is not easily transmitted from human to human.
Similarly, chickens that are kept in runs and subject to common sense precautions are unlikely to catch the disease. Unless you live in an area suffering a major avian influenza outbreak, the visitors to your bird table are unlikely to be carriers of the disease.
Now for the bad news… If only one wild bird in a thousand is a carrier of avian influenza, that’s still one too many. Like it or not, backyard chickens are at risk. This is why new rules and new housing measures were introduced in December 2020.
Avian flu in wild birds
The chances of a human catching avian influenza directly from birds that visit the garden are practically nil. This is no reason to avoid basic precautions, however, especially if you keep chickens. Keeping bird feeding stations clean is important, to avoid droppings and moulds accumulating. These can impact the health of wild birds and lower their immune systems. You should always wash your hands after restocking or cleaning a feeding station, or after any situation that brings you into contact with bird droppings (feeding the ducks in the local park, for example).
Sick or dead wild birds should not be touched. In general, you do not need to report the discovery of a dead bird. However, if dead ducks, geese, swans, gulls or birds of prey should be reported, as should the discovery of five or more dead birds of any species in one place.
How do I know if my chicken has bird flu?
Chickens with avian influenza will display various symptoms. They may be less active than usual, and will lose their appetite and show signs of nervousness. Their egg production will drop, and eventually their combs and wattles will look swollen, with a blue discoloration. Other avian influenza symptoms in poultry include coughs, sneezes and diarrhea. Unfortunately, many of these avian influenza symptoms are associated with other ailments, too, so a vet will need to make the diagnosis.
It can take 14 days for an avian influenza outbreak to spread throughout a flock. Some infected birds may exhibit no signs, even though they are still potential virus carriers. Others may sicken and die very quickly.
CDC currently recommends a neuraminidase inhibitor for treatment of human infection with avian influenza A viruses. CDC has posted avian influenza guidance for health care professionals and laboratorians, including guidance on the use of antiviral medications for the treatment of human infections with novel influenza viruses associated with severe disease. Analyses of available avian influenza viruses circulating worldwide suggest that most viruses are susceptible to oseltamivir, peramivir, and zanamivir. However, some evidence of antiviral resistance has been reported in Asian H5N1 and Asian H7N9 viruses isolated from some human cases. Monitoring for antiviral resistance among avian influenza A viruses is crucial and ongoing.
Although avian influenza A viruses usually do not infect people, rare cases of human infection with these viruses have been reported. Infected birds shed avian influenza virus in their saliva, mucous and feces. Human infections with bird flu viruses can happen when enough virus gets into a person’s eyes, nose or mouth, or is inhaled. This can happen when virus is in the air (in droplets or possibly dust) and a person breathes it in, or when a person touches something that has virus on it then touches their mouth, eyes or nose
The main takeaway messages
Feeding wild birds in the backyard is still safe
Simple precautions and good cleaning habits minimize the dangers
There are days that matter. Days we don’t want to forget and days we want to celebrate. There are dates that we want to mark: Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving… And dates that we would like to know. While certain symbolic days are easy to remember, sometimes we need to refresh our memories. Our pets also have the right to their glory days! Here are the key dates to know in 2021!
The list below is not exhaustive and takes into account the days established in some countries and not in others. However, we love any excuse to celebrate our pets so thought you’d love to here of these special days too!
The month of January is already almost over but nothing prevents us from taking a retrospective of past events.
Throughout January, two actions were put forward:
Adopt a rescued bird. Birds were therefore honored in this month of January. Many cats and dogs are asking to be rescued every day, but it was important to put the birds in the spotlight! Thousands of them are looking for a home and a family to care for them. Birds are awesome, they are fun, social, and smart creatures. There are many owners who underestimate the workload around these little animals. Birds require a lot of attention and love. This is why the abandonments are numerous and the shelters overwhelmed.
National Train Your Dog Month (US): A movement started by the Association of Pet Dog Trainers many years ago. This month is your chance to teach your dog new tricks. During the month of January, social networks become a real source of information for dog owners with tips and advice. Feel free to browse Instagram, Facebook, Youtube and Pinterest. This is the time when trainers, canine experts, and dog owners come together to celebrate their love for their pets. Remember three essential things for your dog to learn in good conditions: loyalty, love, fidelity.
Specific Days in January for pets:
Jan. 24: Change a Pet’s Life Day: a day especially created to encourage people to adopt pets from shelters. And if you are not ready to adopt, you can sponsor a pet. This system is done through shelters, do not hesitate to inquire directly with them! You can also think of volunteering. Associations always need help.
Jan. 25: National Fun At Work Day
February
February is only 28 days but they are busy days. The month of February is particularly placed under the sign of health. Don’t forget to take your pet regularly to the vet. The all-important task is to spay our pets.
Throughout this February, two actions are put forward:
Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month: Rabbits make great pets too. Often forgotten like birds, the month of February allows these small animals to be honored. For people who have allergies to dogs and cats, adopting a rabbit may be an ideal solution! Allergies are actually less frequent. Rabbits bring joy and happiness, they are just waiting to join a loving family.
National Cat Health Month (US): This month we are focusing on the well-being of our cats! Parents of cats, this is the time to take into consideration not only the physical well-being of your pet, but also the occasion to take into account its emotional well-being. It’s time to celebrate our furry friends. This month we take our cat to the vet, we flood it with love and why not buy our lovely cat a new toy… It’s a secret but…Many surprises are arriving this spring at Omlet for cat owners! Stay connected…
Specific Days in February for pets:
Feb. 3: National Golden Retriever Day
Feb. 3: Annual Doggy Date Night: dogs are an integral part of a family. It is essential to give them quality time. Take advantage of an evening with your dogs to show them all your love: pet them, share a movie with them, give them a gift and above all tell your dogs that you love them. This day reminds us how much our dogs bring us daily joy.
Feb. 14: Valentine’s Day: Valentine’s day is not just for humans!
Feb. 14: Pet Theft Awareness Day: This day reminds us how much a pet brings happiness to a family but it also reminds us of the responsibilities that go with it. This day emphasizes the importance of pet identification and encourages owners to take steps to ensure the safety of the animal.
Feb. 20: Love Your Pet Day ???
Feb. 22: National Walk Your Dog Day
Feb. 23: World Spay Day: This day is an opportunity for shelters to highlight their spay program. World Spay Day shining a spotlight on the power of affordable, accessible spay/neuter to save the lives of pets and street dogs who might otherwise be put down in shelters or killed on the street.
Feb. 27: Polar Bear Day: We leave the world of pets for a moment to highlight the importance of polar bear conservation who are an endangered species.
March
Throughout March, two actions are put forward:
Adopt a Rescued Guinea Pig Month: Just like birds and rabbits, there are many guinea pigs in shelters! They are charming companions who will know how to bring joy at home. Guinea pigs are wonderful animals for your children. In addition to being excellent friends, they can also teach them empathy and responsibility.
Poison Prevention Awareness Month: Think you don’t have poison in your house? This day allows us to become aware of the products which surround us and which could be dangerous for our animals. Remember to store your products in your cupboards and not leave them lying around. Your animals are like children and they could easily swallow or inhale a substance dangerous to their health which could even lead to death. This period was established in the United States but it is important for any person in possession of a pet in the whole world to take note of it.
Specific Days in March for pets:
March 3: If Pets Had Thumbs Day: Yes this day exists and it’s a funny one! It comes straight from the United States and allows us to imagine the life of our dog with thumbs.
March 20: World Sparrow Day
March 23: National Puppy Day (US): this day celebrates all the love that puppies bring us. You might see a lot of social media posts emerging on this day! This day makes us aware that puppies are a big responsibility. This day also exists to educate people about the horrors of puppy mills across the world.
March 23: Cuddly Kitten Day
March 28: Respect Your Cat Day: give them the attention they deserve!
March 30: Take a Walk in the Park Day
April
Some important aspects of pet care are highlighted in April.
Throughout April, two actions are put forward:
National Pet Month (UK): This month is a time to educate pet owners about the responsibility of having a pet at home. Through numerous campaigns and an educational approach, associations hope to raise awareness.
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month:This month is also the time to speak out and take action! Do not hesitate to condemn any behavior that could endanger an animal. The month of March is an opportunity to help associations by giving or volunteering. Your actions may be able to save lives.
April 4: Easter: Easter emblems: a rabbit, a chicken and a bell
April 8: National Dog Fighting Awareness Day
April 11: National Pet Day
April 11: Celebrate Shelter Pets Day
April 11: Dog Therapy Appreciation Day
April 12: World Hamster Day: hamsters also have the right to their glory day!
April 23: National Lost Dog Awareness Day
April 24: World Veterinary Day: This annual celebration aims to highlight a profession: veterinarians. This day underlines the vital role of this profession in also ensuring animal welfare, safe world trade in animals and animal products as well as protecting public health.
April 25: National Pet Parents Day
April 26: National Kids and Pets Day (US): This day is mainly celebrated in the United States however it can easily be highlighted in other countries by offering activities bringing together your children and pets! Why not do a family outing on April 26? Play hide and seek all together in the backyard? So much activity exists!
April 28: International Guide Dog Day: It is important to pay tribute to these dogs who allow their owner to socialize with the outside world. These dogs are very supportive and do an amazing job. They bring love, comfort and help.
April 30: Adopt a Shelter Pet Day
April 30: National Therapy Animal Day
April 30: Hairball Awareness Day
May
In May, we celebrate the different breeds of dogs. We also do not forget the importance of microchipping your pets!
Throughout May, two actions are put forward:
Chip Your Pet Month: This month the focus is on the microchip. It’s a perfect time to spread knowledge about microchips. The American Humane Association evaluates that one in three animals will be lost or stolen in their lifetime. The microchip is like your pet’s identity card. If lost, your pet has a better chance of finding you if they are microchipped.
Pet Cancer Awareness Month: Did you know that cancer is a leading cause of disease-related death in cats and dogs? This month emphasizes the importance of a good medical follow-up of your animal.
Specific Days in May for pets:
May 1: National Purebred Dog Day
May 3: National Specially-abled Pets Day (US): Disabled animals are highlighted on this day. These animals have an immense need for love. If you are able to care for a dog like this, know that they will return that love to you every day.
May 8: Vet Nurse Day
May 8: National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day
May 8: National Dog Mom’s Day
May 14: International Chihuahua Appreciation Day: And yes, chihuahuas have the right to have their own day! In addition, this day is international! They are the kings.
May 20: National Rescue Dog Day
June
In June, shelters see an abundance of kittens arriving.
Throughout June, an action is put forward:
Adopt-A-Cat Month / Adopt a Shelter Cat Month:
As stated in this article, adoption is a laudable alternative. By welcoming an abandoned cat, you are giving it a second chance to live the life it deserves. Cats need to be loved, and while shelters do an amazing job, nothing beats a family to take care of them.
Specific Days in June for pets:
June 4: Hug Your Cat Day: Hugs day is normally everyday for your cat. But we like to remind you that there is a specific day for that so this day make sure to give twice as much hug for your lovely cat!
June 8: Best Friends Day: If we celebrate best friends, it’s not just human beings. Who is more loyal than your dog? Who is more fun than your bunny or even your little chickens?
June 8: World Pet Memorial Day: It is a day dedicated to all our pets that have passed on over the years.
June 21: Take Your Cat to Work Day: Try asking your boss first though in case they’re allergic…
June 24: Cat World Domination Day: Oops it’s a secret…
June 25: Take Your Dog to Work Day
July
In July we take care of our pets. It’s Summer, it’s hot, we try to be vigilant. We think of hydration!
Throughout July, an action is put forward:
National Pet Hydration Awareness Month (US): It is a month dedicated in United States but it should also be for every country in the world that happens to be in the Summer at this time of the year. Your pets need to drink. Don’t forget them!
Specific Days in July for pets:
July 5: Pet Remembrance Day
July 16: Guinea Pig Appreciation Day
July 21: National Craft for Your Local Shelters Day: This is the perfect day to make something for the pets in shelters. It is also a perfect activity to offer to your children!
July 21: No Pet Store Puppies Day
July 30: International Friendship Day: Here again we celebrate our friendship with our lovely animals!
August
In August, we take advantage of our pets. Many activities are to be discovered with your furry friend!
Specific Days in August for pets:
Aug. 1: DOGust Universal Birthday for Shelter Dogs
Aug. 4: Assistance Dog Day
Aug. 6: Fresh Breath Day
Aug. 8: International Cat Day
Aug. 10: Spoil Your Dog Day: On this special day, spoil your dog with little treats, participate in activities and above all spend time giving him/her lots of love.
Aug. 21: International Homeless Animals Day: This particular day symbolizes the fight for better legal and physical protections for our pets.
September
Specific Days in September for pets:
Sept. 1: Ginger Cat Appreciation Day
Sept. 8: National Dog Walker Appreciation Day
Sept. 13: Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day: This day was established by David Rogers in order to bring awareness to the “interactive role humans play in our pets’ physical birth defects as well as their mental health”
Sept. 17: National Pet Bird Day
Sept. 25: International Rabbit Day: This day is dedicated to our little rabbits. Take out its favorite toys, carrots and a nice obstacle course so he can let off steam!
Sept. 25: World’s Largest Pet Walk (US): This day is organized by an association Pet Partners and allows fundraising. It is about promoting the physical activity shared with our pets.
October
In October, we pay attention to what our pets eat! Obesity is a problem that our furry pets can face.
Image by LorysCats from Pixabay
Throughout October, an action is put forward:
Adopt-A-Dog Month/Adopt a Shelter Dog Month: Like cats, dogs have one month dedicated for adoption. So we can never repeat it enough but if you want to adopt, think about all of your local shelters first!
Specific Days in October for pets:
Oct. 4: World Animal/Pet Day
Oct. 13: Pet Obesity Awareness Day: Obesity in our animals is not to be taken lightly. An obesity problem in your pet can lead to other health problems and affect the quality of life of your companion. It also interferes in all the activities that he/she is does on a daily basis: walking or running after a ball. These activities are nevertheless so dear to his/her heart.
Oct. 27: National Black Cat Day (UK): We did a recent article about black cats, read it here!
Oct. 28: Plush Animal Lovers’ Day: Ideal day to buy your pet a new toy
Oct. 30: National Pit Bull Awareness Day
Oct. 31: Halloween: Be careful not to leave chocolate lying around! It’s not good for our furry friends.
November
Throughout November, an action is put forward:
Adopt a Senior Pet Month: The whole month of November highlights the adoption of a senior pet. A month dedicated to older pets to find a lovely home. Dogs and cats who are older have higher euthanasia rates. There are many advantages to adopting an older pet: they are calmer, it is easier to teach them new tricks, and they require less attention than a puppy.
Specific Days in November for pets:
Nov. 1: National Cook for Your Pets Day (US): It’s an excellent idea to test new recipes and share them with your furry friends.
Nov. 17: Take a Hike Day
Nov. 25: Thanksgiving (U.S.)
Nov. 28: Hanukkah Begins
December
December, it’s gifts month!
Specific Days in December for pets:
Dec. 5: International Volunteer Day: the opportunity to volunteer with an animal association
Dec. 9: International Day of Veterinary Medicine
Dec. 24: Christmas Eve
Dec. 25: Christmas: Gifts are also for our animals!
Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve
There are many, many dates that celebrate animals around the world. If you are not celebrating a particular date, that’s okay, the most important thing is to give lots of love every day to these pets who bring you joy and happiness all year round!
Omlet are delighted to announce that we will be at the Boston, Flower and Garden Show March 11-15 2020 and at the Northwest, Flower and Garden Festival in Seattle, WA February 26 – March 1st 2020.
Come and visit our booths to meet our team of chicken eggsperts, ask questions and discover the following products:
Make sure you asked about our special show offers!
The Boston Flower & Garden Show will close at 6 p.m. today, Friday, March 13, 2020. The scheduled show days of Saturday, March 14 through Sunday, March 15 have been cancelled.
Reasons why you should come and visit us
Discover our product range in person.
Compare our chicken coops and see which one is right for you.
Meet our pet experts and ask them questions.
Get a full demonstration of the features and benefits of an Omlet product.
We will be offering show discounts
Useful information:
Boston, Flower and Garden Show
Dates & Hours:
Wednesday, March 11: 10:00AM-7:00PM
Thursday, March 12: 10:00AM-7:00PM
Friday, March 13: 10:00AM-9:00PM
Saturday, March 14: 10:00AM-9:00PM
Sunday, March 15: 10:00AM-6:00PM
Show Location:
The Seaport World Trade Center
200 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA 02210
Website:
https://bostonflowershow.com
Booth Location:
Booth number 336 (see map below)
Northwest, Flower and Garden Festival in Seattle, WA
Dates & Hours:
Wednesday, February 26 – Sunday, March 1, 2020
Wednesday – Saturday: 9:00am – 8:00pm
Sunday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Show Location:
Washington State Convention Center
705 Pike Street – on the corner of 7th and Pike Street Seattle, Washington 98101
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