Health & Safety

Parents should assist young children with hand washing, and children should be discouraged from putting their fingers in their mouths or eyes after handling animals. We understand that children may be particularly excited to interact with our animals, and we aim to create a safe environment while educating them about responsible animal handling. We recommend that parents assist their children in handling the animals to ensure both the child’s safety and the well-being of the animals. Our trained staff members are also available to offer guidance and assistance throughout the interaction.

Depending on the animal being presented, we provide specific information on how to approach and handle them safely. For instance, we may explain that certain animals prefer to be petted gently, while others may be more comfortable with observation from a distance. We also highlight any specific behaviours or characteristics of the animals that visitors should be aware of.

Reptiles, in particular, can carry Salmonella bacteria. While the risks are generally low, it’s important to be aware of this possibility. If you are unwell and have been in contact with animals, always seek advice from medical professionals. We take thorough health checks for all our animals, ensuring the well-being of our animals, handlers, and all involved.

Before allowing interactions with our animals, we prioritise their safety and the well-being of our animals by providing welfare briefs to all. These briefings are designed to educate and inform everyone involved about responsible and respectful behaviour when interacting with animals. Here’s an overview of what our welfare briefs entail:

1. Introduction to Animal Welfare:
   We begin by emphasising the importance of animal welfare and the ethical considerations associated with interacting with animals. We explain that our primary goal is to ensure the animals’ well-being while providing an educational and enjoyable experience for all.
2. We provide clear guidelines on how to interact with the animals in a safe and respectful manner. This includes instructing on how to approach the animals gently and quietly, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises that may startle them. We emphasise the importance of not poking, prodding, or grabbing the animals, as it can cause stress and discomfort.
3. Hand Washing and Hygiene:
   We stress the significance of hand washing both before and after interacting with the animals. Proper hand washing helps prevent the spread of potential diseases and ensures the well-being of both participants and animals. We provide information on the location of hand washing facilities and remind participants to thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap.
4. Supervision and assistance may be required for younger participants

By providing welfare briefs before animal interactions, we strive to create a safe and respectful environment for both our animals and those interacting with our animals. These briefings promote responsible behaviour, hygiene practices, and an understanding of the animals’ well-being. We believe that by fostering this awareness, participants can have an enjoyable and educational experience while respecting the welfare of the animals in our care.