[gracie]

We let our chickens free range whenever we are at home. This can sometimes be all day. Trouble is I feel awful when I don't let them out. You can tell they are wondering what I am playing at not letting them out. They have a good size run and dh has agreed to extend it before our fortnights holiday in august. They will get checked every day but can't imagine anyone sitting here for an hour or two to let them out.

Do you think I would be better not letting them out all day so it's not so difficult for them when they can't get out or just let them be happy out whenever they get the chance.

I know this isn't a serious problem but thought it would be interesting to see what others do. My friends that have chickens either have electric fencing so they are out all the time or never free range. Our garden is too big to electric fence.

[joyfull]

they may sulk and go off lay for a short while but they will be safe, so don't feel guilty if they can't free range whilst you are away.

[Debz]

You would feel a lot guiltier if they got taken by a fox if they were out unsupervised.  Mine only got to play out when I could be in the garden with them becuase it is an unsecured garden and I have seen a fox sitting on top of the six foot high fencing.

[gracie]

Oh I know what you mean about foxes, I wouldn't consider letting them out when I'm not here. It's bad enough when I am, always constantly checking on them. Maybe I won't be so paranoid when I have had them longer. I even get them in when i go for a shower if no one else is home.
It's raining today and it's their first day in it so I stood outside with my brolly watching them.

[kimmcb]

I wouldn't feel guilty, just think what a wonderful life you are giving them when you are around. I work three days a week at the moment and my girls stay in the run while I'm at work. Have you thought of Hennels?! I know that Raw Green Cottages near Barnsley do hen holiday boarding from £1 per day, so there must be other places too.