Lambing After Dark

While it is safe to visit the Farm Park when pregnant, there are a few things that you should be aware of before you enter the Animal Barn. 

Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. It normally causes a mild illness in people with healthy immune systems, but it can be problematic during pregnancy because it may harm your baby. 

The parasite can be found in meat, cat faeces, unpasteurised goats' milk and the birthing fluid of pregnancy livestock.

Toxoplasmosis is caught by swallowing anything infected with, or contaminated by, the parasite. 

There is a risk of catching toxoplasmosis from a pregnant ewe, if, during the process of lambing, infected material enters your eyes, mouth or open cuts. This is very unlikely and we take every care to avoid the contamination of public areas with these fluids, but recommend that you are especially careful to wash your hands after entering livestock areas and again before eating or drinking.

If other members of your party are entering the Animal Barn but you'd rather not, you are welcome to remain in the Ox Shed and soak up the atmosphere. 

Please speak to your midwife if you have any concerns.