At Manor Farm Park and Woodland in East Leake, staff are turning fruit and vegetables into frozen lollies to help their 200-plus residents beat the rising temperatures. Animals lean against bottles of frozen water for relief when the sun dips, and keepers monitor everyone closely for signs of distress such as panting or lethargy. Thick-coated friends like sheep and alpacas have received spring haircuts, leaving them ready to tackle high heat without overheating. Meanwhile, rotation through shady paddocks ensures every creature finds a cool spot to rest.
Manager Barbara Bird emphasizes that these creative steps—along with adding paddling pools and extra water stations—are vital for both farm animals and family pets at home. Guests at the park can watch their flock enjoy iced treats and marvel at how quickly a simple “ice-pop hack” becomes the highlight of a sweltering day. Bird reminds everyone to “give animals somewhere cool to shelter and avoid the midday sun,” sharing that common-sense care can make all the difference. With these measures in place, Manor Farm’s residents are staying safe, happy and remarkably cool all summer long.