Care and Health at Santa Clarita Critter Haven
At Santa Clarita Critter Haven, the well-being of our animals is at the heart of everything we do. From their diets to their living environments and veterinary care, we prioritize their health and happiness above all else. Every resident of our petting zoo is treated as part of the family, ensuring they thrive physically, emotionally, and socially.
A Balanced and Nutritious Diet
We tailor each animal’s diet to their species-specific needs, ensuring they receive all the nutrients necessary for a healthy life.
Goats: Our goats enjoy a mix of fresh alfalfa, high-quality hay, and occasional treats like carrots and apple slices. We also provide mineral supplements to keep their bones and coats strong.
Llamas: A steady diet of grasses and hay, supplemented with llama pellets rich in vitamins and minerals, keeps them happy and healthy.
Chickens: Free-range chickens peck at grains, seeds, and bugs while also being offered fresh vegetables and calcium-enriched feed to support egg production.
Pigs: Our pigs receive a variety of grains, fruits, and veggies, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable diet.
All animals have access to clean, fresh water 24/7. We regularly inspect and clean their feeding stations to maintain hygiene.
Spacious and Comfortable Living Environments
Our enclosures are thoughtfully designed to replicate natural habitats while providing safety and comfort.
Shelter: Each enclosure includes a cozy, weather-proof shelter where animals can rest and seek protection from the elements.
Play Areas: We’ve added climbing structures for goats, ponds for ducks, and digging spaces for pigs, allowing each animal to engage in natural behaviors.
Enrichment Activities: Toys, puzzles, and interaction time with visitors are just a few ways we keep our animals mentally stimulated.
Enclosures are cleaned daily to ensure a fresh, odor-free environment. Bedding is replaced regularly, and high-quality materials like straw or wood shavings are used for comfort.
Regular Veterinary Care
Our animals are seen regularly by licensed veterinarians specializing in farm and exotic animals. Each animal undergoes routine health check-ups to ensure they remain in peak condition.
Vaccinations: All animals are vaccinated according to species-specific guidelines to protect against common diseases.
Parasite Control: We maintain a strict parasite prevention program that includes regular deworming and external parasite treatments.
Emergency Care: In case of illness or injury, our on-call veterinarian is available to provide immediate assistance.
We keep detailed health records for every animal to monitor their progress and address any issues promptly.
Social and Emotional Well-Being
Animals, like humans, need companionship and interaction to thrive. We carefully monitor group dynamics to ensure harmony among our animals.
Herd Animals: Goats and llamas are housed in social groups to encourage natural bonding behaviors.
One-on-One Time: Staff spend dedicated time with shy or solitary animals, helping them feel safe and loved.
Visitor Interaction: While visitor interactions are a highlight, we ensure animals have downtime to rest and recharge.
Training and Handling
We use positive reinforcement techniques to train and handle our animals, ensuring they feel safe and respected.
Feeding Routines: Animals are trained to come to specific areas during feeding times, making it easier to manage their diets.
Handling Practices: Staff are trained in gentle handling methods to minimize stress during grooming or health checks.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Caring for our animals also means caring for the environment they live in.
Recycling and Composting: Animal waste is composted and used to enrich our gardens.
Sustainable Feed Sources: We partner with local farmers to source sustainable feed.
Water Conservation: Automatic water dispensers prevent waste while keeping animals hydrated.
Testimonials on Our Care
“I was amazed at how happy and healthy all the animals looked. You can tell the staff genuinely care about them.”
– Emily, Visitor
“Seeing how they interact with the animals made me feel good about bringing my kids here. It’s a truly humane and loving environment.”
– Michael, Local Parent