Chicken Diaper Business "Cleaning Up"

Chicken Diaper Business "Cleaning Up" 34-4-7 "When I started talking about making diapers for my pet chickens, friends with their own birds began ordering them before the first one was even made," says Ruth Haldeman, who quickly realized she could "clean up" by getting into the diaper business. As word got out, orders increased. "I've got all the business I can handle," she told FARM SHOW. Haldeman's diaper design features a cloth band that fits over the tail knob and feathers. Chicken droppings are captured in a disposable plastic liner held in place by the band. The diaper's weight is carried on the back of the chicken, and it doesn't interfere with normal preening. Haldeman includes several liners with each diaper order, as well as instructions for customers to make their own. She says even plastic cups can be used for liners. While intended for chickens, Haldeman reports customers successfully using larger size diapers for turkeys and other pet poultry. All that is needed are stiff tail feathers. Rumpless birds, she says, are out of luck. The diapers are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including "camo style" woodland. Haldeman directs customers to measure the back of the bird, down the spine from where the wing joins the body to the tail knob, continuing to the vent. Diapers are priced according to the total length of the measurement. Haldeman only takes orders over the internet. Prices range from $9 to $14, depending on size, with shipping extra. For those who can't wait to diaper their birds, Haldeman offers a rush service. As she does all her own sewing and holds down a full-time day job, she says the rush fee is to cover lost sleep. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Ruth Haldeman (ruth@chickendiapers.com; www.chickendiapers.com).

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