July marks the midpoint of the year – a moment to look back at everything we have already achieved and to look ahead to the busy months still to come.
The season has certainly made its presence felt: at one point the thermometer at the Sanctuary nudged 33 °C.
Our small but mighty team rose to the challenge, working flat out to keep every resident safe and chilled.
Here is a round-up of what has been happening, how the weather is affecting us and – as ever – the crucial part you play in keeping the gates open.
Pigs find it hard to regulate their body temperature, so the first item on our daily checklist has been water, water and more water.
Wallow pits were topped up morning and afternoon, and hose-pipe ‘showers’ quickly became the hottest ticket in town – or should that be the coolest?
Judging by the contented grunts and splashes, the service was greatly appreciated.
One pig who has truly embraced summer skincare is Twiglet.
She spends hours luxuriating in her muddy wallow, emerging with a glossy coat and a comically caked nose.
If there were an award for best spa-day glow, Twiglet would win trotters down.
A few of our senior sheep, along with the ever-charming Rainbow the goat, have been tucking into fresh cabbage and broccoli leaves kindly donated by a supporter.
Crunchy greens are perfect for older teeth and packed with moisture – ideal when the grass is dry and brittle.
We never take these gestures for granted – every box of veg makes a tangible difference.
Our final Sheepover of the season was a sell-out success.
Live music drifted across the paddocks, plant-based burgers disappeared almost as quickly as they were flipped and – most importantly – dozens of newcomers met our residents face to face. Seeing those first moments of connection never gets old.
To everyone who volunteered, attended or spread the word – thank you.
We cannot wait to do it all again in 2026.
Hot, rain-starved days might feel glorious on the beach, but they spell trouble for pasture.
Right now the fields are barely greening, which means we have had to break into winter stores far earlier than usual – and to buy in extra feed on top.
| Item | Weekly quantity | Current cost per unit | Weekly spend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big square bales of hay | 4 | £60 | £240 |
| Nutritional lick buckets | 8 | £16.50 | £132 |
| Small bales of hay | 7 | £4.50 | £31.50 |
That is £403.50 every week – an expense we normally avoid in midsummer. With hay yields down across the country, prices are climbing fast, and our reserves will only stretch so far.
If you are in a position to chip in, even the price of a coffee keeps a resident’s belly full.
You can donate securely here.
Every pound goes straight to feed, bedding and veterinary care – allowing us to concentrate on what matters most: giving farmed animals the safe, happy lives they deserve.
The date is set, and tickets are now available!
Join us for a weekend of music, food, wellness, and fun at Britain’s first Farm Animal Sanctuary.
Live music & DJ sets
Delicious food & drinks
Unique shopping stalls
Wellness workshops & yoga
Meet our 600+ rescued animals
Family-friendly activities & kids’ area
Stay the weekend with on-site camping or visit for the day to soak up the festival atmosphere.
Every ticket supports our vital work in rescuing and caring for animals.
Book now and be part of something unforgettable!
