Ask the Expert: Raising Unique Pets

by Eliza Rea

This month, we asked rising fourth-grade Sunrise Valley Elementary School student, Eliza Rea to share her expertise on raising chickens as pets!

Eliza with the chicks. Contributed by Alan Rea, SVES rising 2nd grader.

Hi, my name is Eliza Rea and I have cared for chickens for over a year. I give them food and water daily, collect their eggs and tell them that I love them.

1. What made you decide that chickens would be a good pet for you? I decided that chickens would be a good pet for me because taking care of them would teach me to be responsible. I liked that chickens could provide eggs so that my mom wouldn't have to buy them at the store anymore.

2. How do you take care of your chickens every day? I give them food and water every day and sometimes treats.

3. What do you like most about having chickens as pets? To me, they are not just chickens. They are living creatures who can think and feel, just like me. They are part of my family! I love all five of them.

4. Have your chickens done anything funny or surprising? Yes, a funny and surprising thing my chickens did was to sneeze! I also think it's funny when I find them in the same egg-laying box.

5. What would you like other kids to know who might be considering a pet, especially a unique one? All pets are great! I would tell other kids who are considering a pet that chickens are great—they understand you and love you. My chickens run up to see me when I give them food and water which makes me feel like they actually know me and know that I'll always be there for them.