A Hampshire hen charity is urging people to think outside the box when it comes to their next pet and adopt one of their hens.

The British Hen Welfare Trust (BHWT) is holding an adoption day for ex-commercial chickens in Rowlands Castle on Saturday, October 9 and is asking people to consider if they could give a loving home to a hard-working hen.

Jane Howorth MBE, founder of the BHWT, says, “Time and time again, the feedback we have from people who rehome our hens is how much they love them. Once people welcome hens into their family, they get to see what amazing, curious, funny little creatures they really are and can’t believe they didn’t do it sooner.

“These animals aren’t often thought of as pets, but they have just as much personality as cats and dogs. They’ll follow you around, talk to you, play with you, cuddle you. They’re incredibly affectionate and after being saved from slaughter, they have so much love to give.

“You don’t need to have a huge garden or live on a farm to have chickens. All you need is a good-sized secure area for them to live in and a big heart.”