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Shelter
Farm animals are domestic animals, they cannot "fend
for themselves"on the range, or find their own housing.
Appropriate shelter must be provided for all farm animals
and includes: 1) Well-ventilated; 2) Weatherproof; and 3)
Predator-proof housing.
Ventilation: Good ventilation is extremely important
for all farm animal species. Though most important in hot
weather, farm animals also need good ventilation in colder
seasons. During the winter months, don't overheat barns or
close your barn entirely. Humidity from urine, manure, and
body moisture may arise and result in pneumonia. The most
caring farm animal caregiver makes this easy mistake in an
attempt to keep the animals in an environment that is "comfortable."
Also, just because it's cold or snowing outside, don't necessarily
assume the animals want to be kept indoors. Farm animals need
(and prefer) fresh air, and generally go outdoors in even
the harshest weather. For this reason, we feel it is important
to arrange your barn and fencing so that the animals can choose
to go inside or outside during the day.
Weatherproofing: All farm animal shelters must be
weatherproof. In addition to being uncomfortable for the animals,
wet, soiled bedding is a health hazard. During cold weather
months, you will also need to provide the animals with extra
straw for insulation and warmth.
Predator-proofing: The specific type of predator-proofing
you will need depends on the type of farm animal under your
care, but all need protection. Fencing is a must to keep predators
out and farm animals in. Sadly, dogs are one of the most common
farm animal predators. If you have dog companions in your
family, carefully introduce them to farm animals and do not
leave them alone together until you are absolutely sure it
is safe. Cats and farm animals get along fine (except for
baby birds or rabbits). Never put a farm animal on a rope
or chain and leave him or her unprotected. The practice of
"tethering" is stressful for the animals, and dangerous.
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