Caring for Our Farm Family
At Coombe House Farm, our animals are at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to care for a variety of animals, including our chickens, ducks, guinea pigs, sheep and resident Pygmy goat. Every animal plays an important role in farm life, helping pupils and visitors learn about responsibility, animal welfare and the natural world.
We believe that happy, healthy animals create the best learning environment, which is why animal welfare is our top priority.
Our Commitment to Animal Welfare
We follow the Five Animal Welfare Needs, which guide how we care for every animal on the farm.
🍽️ A Suitable Diet
All of our animals receive fresh food and clean water every day. Their diets are carefully tailored to their species and individual needs, helping them stay healthy, active and content.
🏡 A Suitable Environment
Our animals live in safe, secure and comfortable homes with shelter from the weather, clean bedding and plenty of space to move around and rest.
🌿 The Opportunity to Express Natural Behaviours
Animals are happiest when they can behave naturally. We provide opportunities for:
🐑 Appropriate Companionship
Many farm animals are social creatures and benefit from living alongside companions. We carefully consider the social needs of every species and ensure animals are housed appropriately.
💚 Protection from Pain, Injury, Suffering and Disease
Daily welfare checks help us monitor the health and wellbeing of all our animals. We work closely with veterinary professionals and maintain high standards of hygiene and preventative healthcare across the farm.
🐾 How We Look After Our Animals
The health and happiness of our animals is our top priority. Every day, we:
✅ Carry out welfare checks to ensure animals are healthy and comfortable.
✅ Provide fresh food and clean water tailored to each animal’s needs.
✅ Clean and maintain housing, providing safe shelters and comfortable bedding.
✅ Encourage natural behaviours such as grazing, foraging, dust bathing, climbing and exploring.
✅ Provide enrichment activities to keep animals physically active and mentally stimulated.
✅ Work closely with veterinary professionals to maintain high standards of health and welfare.
By following the Five Animal Welfare Needs, we ensure our chickens, ducks, guinea pigs, sheep and goat can live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives while helping pupils and visitors learn about responsible animal care. 💚🐐🐑🐔🦆🐹
