As temperatures continue to climb across the country, Duckyls Farm Community Services in Sussex has intensified its efforts to ensure every animal on the farm remains safe, comfortable, and cool during the hot weather.
Early Starts and Creative Cooling Methods
The dedicated staff have been starting their days much earlier to complete essential jobs before the hottest part of the day. Throughout the day, they are joined by service users to hose down the horses, fill a paddling pool for the alpacas, prepare chilled fresh vegetables for rabbits and guinea pigs, and make vegetable ice cubes as a refreshing treat for the chickens.
The team has also increased access to fresh drinking water throughout the day, provided ample shaded areas for animals to rest, and avoided unnecessary handling during the hottest hours. Small animal hutches are positioned in shaded areas with good ventilation and, where appropriate, covered with damp towels to help keep temperatures down while ensuring air circulation.
Advice for Pet Owners
The farm is reminding pet owners to take extra care during periods of hot weather. Dogs should only be walked early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Fresh water should always be available, and owners should never leave animals in parked vehicles, even for a short time. Small pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, should be kept out of direct sunlight, with frozen water bottles wrapped in towels or cooling mats used to help regulate temperatures safely.
Community Involvement and Learning
Keri Strugnell, care and community manager at Duckyls Farm Community Services, said: "The welfare of our animals is always our highest priority. During hot weather, everyone pulls together to make sure every animal receives the extra care they need. It's wonderful to see the people we support taking such an active role in caring for the animals, learning about their needs and helping keep them healthy, happy and comfortable throughout the summer."
One of the people supported at the 100-acre Duckyls Farm, who has a learning disability, said: "I like helping the animals stay cool. My favourite job is giving the horses a hose-down and making the vegetable ice cubes for the chickens. It makes me happy because I know the animals feel better when it's really hot."
About Duckyls Farm
Duckyls Farm Community Services provides meaningful opportunities for people with learning disabilities to develop skills, confidence and independence through caring for a wide range of animals and taking part in day-to-day farm life. The current spell of warm weather has become another opportunity for everyone to work together, learn about responsible animal care and ensure every animal enjoys a safe and comfortable summer.
To find out more about Duckyls Farm, visit www.diagramacommunity.org.uk. If you'd like to support Duckyls Farm, you can help by purchasing an item from their Amazon Wishlist. Every contribution, big or small, helps enhance the daily lives of the people they support.
