SAINT PAUL, Minn. — The Miracle of Birth Center is one of the most popular exhibits at the Minnesota State Fair, and also one most impacted by high temperatures.
As temperatures inched close to 90 degrees on Sunday, the managers and veterinarians at the center were keeping a close eye on animals and signs of overheating. Some of those signs in animals include color changes in the body, panting, and animals gasping for air.
"A lot of maintenance goes on to make sure that the animals have a lot of airflow, we have a lot of water capacity, so that these animals are getting hydrated and staying cool," said Miracle of Birth Center Manager Eric Sawatzke.
There's a couple things at the Miracle of Birth Center you'll notice helping keep the animals cool. From the nearly three dozen fans constantly running, to a cold water drip system for the pigs.
"Those hoses are just dripping water on those sows (female pig) to keep them cool," said Dr. Mike Hodgman with the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association. "Along with fans, that's really effective evaporative cooling."
Sawatzke said the center has decided not to include more animals in the barn because more animals would mean more heat.
"You're trying to reduce those issues that are causing them to have that little heightened stress throughout the day," he said.
Just like humans, animals must stay hydrated, and the center ensures there is water available for them at all times.
"We're very concerned about our animals being comfortable, and part of that comfort is being cool," Hodgman said.