Magic Shoe Puddles

That’s why my human set up a magic shoe puddle at the entrance to the coop. At first, I thought they’d finally installed a tiny swimming pool just for me (about time, really). But then, I saw what it really was—a security system for our feet.

The Blue Puddle Investigation

I took my job as Flock Safety Reporter seriously. When this blue puddle appeared, I had questions.

Was it a portal to another dimension?
A secret snack stash?
A trap designed to drown unsuspecting chickens?!

I had to know. So, I watched as my human stepped right in it. Not only did they survive, but they walked out cleaner than before. That’s when I realized…

This puddle wasn’t for fun—it was for safety.

What Is a Foot Bath and Why Do You Need One?

A foot bath is a shallow container filled with a disinfecting solution, placed at the entrance to the coop. When you step in, it kills germs on your shoes before they sneak inside. It’s like washing your hands—but for your feet.

How It Works (For Humans Who Need Things Spelled Out)

1️⃣ Step into the blue puddle – Both feet. No tiptoeing.
2️⃣ Let the solution work its magic – Just a few seconds does the job.
3️⃣ Step onto a dry mat – Because no one likes wet footprints in the coop.

That’s it. Two seconds of effort = a healthier flock.

Why Bother? My Coop is Clean!

Sure, I bet you keep things tidy. But disease doesn’t care about your cleaning schedule. Bird flu, Marek’s, and other nasty bugs can hitch a ride on your shoes from the feed store, the park, or even your own backyard.

🐔 What It Protects Us From:
✅ Avian influenza – The biggest threat to backyard flocks.
✅ Marek’s disease – A silent, deadly virus that spreads easily.
✅ Bacteria & parasites – Because you don’t want to bring home mystery germs.

A foot bath stops the problem before it even starts.

Setting Up Your Own Magic Shoe Puddle

Want to impress your chickens and be a responsible flock owner? Here’s what you’ll need:

Supplies:

✔ A shallow container (big enough to fit both feet)
✔ A disinfecting solution (Oxine, Virkon S, or a bleach-water mix)
✔ A scrub mat (to clean deep treads)
✔ A dry mat or towel for wiping off excess liquid

Note: We love & use Oxine & Virkon S: you can purchase here with our link at no extra cost to you.

Quick Setup Guide:

1️⃣ Place the container at the coop entrance – No skipping around it!
2️⃣ Fill it with disinfectant – Refresh it regularly so it stays effective.
3️⃣ Make stepping in a habit – Every visit, every time. No exceptions.

No Foot Bath? No Excuses.

If a foot bath isn’t available, shoe covers are the next best thing. They keep your regular shoes from tracking in germs, and they’re easy to remove before stepping inside.

Even if you do use a foot bath, dedicated coop shoes (shoes that never leave the chicken area) are the best option for regular visitors. That way, you’re not bringing outside contamination into the coop in the first place.

Final Thoughts from Cluck Kent

Humans, do the right thing. Step in the magic shoe puddle. Wear coop-only shoes. Protect your flock.

🐓 A few seconds of prevention can save your entire flock from illness.