Backyard chickens are increasingly popular throughout the U.S. Nearly one percent of all U.S. households surveyed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture reported owning backyard fowl in 2013, and four percent more planned to start in the next five years. This is more than 13 million Americans flocking to the backyard poultry scene.
Researchers from University of California – Davis concluded after a recent study that as backyard chicken farming spreads, states need to develop regulations to better protect animal welfare and human health.
Source: The Conversation, April 3, 2018.
Researchers believe cities need to carefully consider their backyard chicken regulations and develop strong legal frameworks that protect animal and human health and welfare. In particular, they should develop rules that require food and water, mandate veterinary care and connect owners with animal welfare agencies.
INSIGHTS: Consider the math. If 50 percent of the 13 million persons have a cat or dog, then there’s a need for veterinary care for approximately 200 backyard chicken locations per veterinary practice in the U.S. Are we ready?