Meet Elam Miller – The Visionary and CEO
Nearly two decades ago, Elam Miller built his first prefab chicken coop with some friends in his garage. When people saw his construction, they requested their own, and Elam realized that many people were looking for quality outdoor structures for their animals that wouldn’t just fall apart after a year or two. Thus began Bird-In-Hand Pet structures, composed of The Hen House Collection and The Dog Kennel Collection.
While Elam began selling coops locally from his Willow Street location, he quickly expanded his reach by partnering with shed dealers and retailers beyond the local community. As his business grew, he brought on more team members, steadily building a nationwide network of over 150 dealers.
Eventually, largely due to customer support, Bird-In-Hand Pet Structures expanded to include Smart Chicken Door, which offered automatic chicken doors, and Backyard Pet Supplies, to sell dog kennel parts and other pet supplies.
Elam, Bird-In-Hand Pet Structures, and the Dog Kennel Collection have been recognized on several prestigious lists throughout this time. In 2024, they were featured on the Financial Times Americas Fastest Growing Companies and Inc Regionals lists. When asked about the success the company has had, Elam says, “We are grateful for our sustained growth over the last several years. I am proud of our team and the hard work they have given!”
Profiles for Elam
Our Brands
The Hen House Collection
The Hen House Collection is the branch of our company dedicated to crafting high-quality chicken coops. Our product line features a variety of options, including compact backyard coops, spacious walk-in models, mobile chicken tractors, and portable coops. Designed to accommodate anywhere from just two hens to flocks of one hundred, we offer the right fit for every type of chicken keeper.
The Dog Kennel Collection
The Dog Kennel Collection focuses exclusively on designing and producing top-quality kennels and accessories for dogs. Our offerings include residential and commercial kennel systems, easy-to-assemble kennel kits, and upgrade solutions for existing structures. Whether you have one dog or manage a large pack, we have the perfect kennel setup to suit your needs and keep your dogs safe and comfortable.
Smart Chicken Door
Smart Chicken Door offers innovative automatic doors designed for chickens, cats, and other small animals. With a range of automated door kits to choose from, you can rest easy knowing your pets are secure each night. This unique solution takes the hassle out of daily routines and adds a layer of safety you can count on.
Backyard Pet Supplies
Backyard Pet Supplies is your go-to online destination for pet and kennel essentials. Offering everything from dog and puppy care products to kennel components and accessories, our user-friendly website makes it simple for pet owners to find what they need.
Dwellity
Dwellity is a Lancaster County based builder creating Amish built cabins and modular homes as a simpler, more approachable alternative to traditional construction. They pair quality craftsmanship with a personal, guided experience, helping customers design spaces that feel like home and make room for rest, connection, and the moments that matter most.
The Dog Kennel Collection Press Contribution
Pet owners share what it’s really like living with the ‘least popular’ dog breed in America
For many years, Labradors were the most popular dog breed in America. And why shouldn’t they be? They’re playful, loyal, loving, and non-aggressive...
The Most Common Dog Sleeping Positions and What They Mean
Sleepy dogs are so cute, whether they’re cuddled up with you or snoozing on their dog beds — or sprawled out in the middle of the floor…
These 6 Dogs Look Exactly Like Simba From ‘The Lion King’
Most people probably wouldn’t mistake the average dog for a lion. After all, dogs are canines and lions are felines, so the distinction is pretty clear, right?…
Social Media
Other Profiles
More Resources
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