Rearing Goats
Raising goats, either for milk or meat, can be an incredibly rewarding and joyful experience. Goats are intelligent, curious, often quite hilarious, and almost always fascinating. The classic children’s tale of the Three Billy Goats Gruff and the Troll beneath their bridge may be a beloved story, but even so these creatures have seemingly developed a bit of a negative reputation (jerks that will head butt anything, messy stink factories, essentially just living garbage disposals--you have probably heard most of the jokes). It is fair to say, however, that their reputation is not all for ill, nor is it al in dispute. Here are some important things to remember if you decide to bring a goat farm onto your property:
- Yes, they are going to smell. Goats have a bit of a musky odor about them, and there’s just no way around this (not to mention that other smelly pastime that comes with every mammal…). Some people do not mind, and even enjoy the scent of animals being around. It is still important to note that, yes, there is going to be a smell in the air around the home once you decide to include space for your goats.
- They need to stay dry. Goats are generally easy going creatures. One way to keep them happy is to make sure they have the option to stay dry at all times. Try to keep them in an area that has space for a hutch to be built, some place that they can call home. After all, every creature deserves to have a safe space.
- Know the breed. There are a large variety of different goats in so many different sizes. Do some research to determine what type of goat is most interesting to you and which you have the best space and climate to meet the animals needs.
- Make sure they have company. Extremely social creatures like goats get extremely lonely when they do not have any companions. In addition to having to put your does in with a stud from time to time (female goats will only produce milk for a period after childbirth), it is vital that they have friendly goats on a similar social tier as they are. Consider keeping a pair of milk goats together, or perhaps you might have a bull and a wether (a castrated goat raised for its meat). Either way, they are going to need to be socialized.
- Keep the necessities on hand. Fresh food and water every day are a necessity, just like with any animal. Make sure you know a local veterinarian to have look at your animals. You will also want to discuss putting together a goat-specific first aid kit, so that you are always prepared should a situation arise suddenly.
Hillsboro Feed Company is the go-to location for any North Alabamians looking to
supply their livestock and work animals with the best, healthiest options for feed. If you are considering putting together a goat hutch on your property, we highly recommend trying out our Shegogg Goat Mineral feed supplement, perfect for fighting off internal parasites. Contact Hillsboro Feed Company today. Our customer service skills are excellent and our products are the best around. Feel free to visit the main store at 14934 Alabama Hwy 20 W, Hillsboro, AL, or call (256) 637-2309 if you have any questions. You can also visit us on the web, at https://www.hillsborofeedco.com.
