About the Author

Dr. Katie Estill DVM

Dr. Katie Estill DVM is a veterinarian consultant for Goat Journal, Countryside & Small Stock Journal, and Countryside online. She works with goats and other large livestock at Desert Trails Veterinary Services in Winnemucca, Nevada.
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Articles by Dr. Katie Estill DVM

Back from the Vet: Clostridial Vaccine Choices

You remember your trusty herd veterinarian telling you something about Clostridium something or other, but how do you choose which clostridial vaccine is right for your herd?

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Back From the Vet: Doe Breeding Soundness

To help ensure healthy kids, have your does in optimum condition for breeding, pregnancy, and kidding with a doe breeding soundness exam.

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Winter Pests and Goats

Though warm sunny days may seem a more likely time to find creepy crawlies on your critters, there are several varieties of goat pests that are more prevalent in winter than summer.

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The Basics of Caring for Goats
November 17, 2022 · · Health

When building a herd health program from the ground up, beginning with the basics of caring for goats is best. One needs to consider the basics of the environment for the herd, their nutrition program, hoof care, and fiber care.

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Veterinarian Breeding Soundness Exam

It is also essential that the buck you select can perform his job well. So, how does one know if a buck can breed well? Enter the breeding soundness examina.

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Back From the Vet: Pink Eye in Goats
September 1, 2022 · · Health, Members Only

One of the common conditions that flies can exacerbate is pink eye or infectious keratoconjunctivitis.

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What’s that tag for?

Any time you peruse a livestock supply catalog, you can find a variety of ear tags. A scrapie identification number is a government-approved official form of identification that links an animal permanently to your herd.

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Is Raw Milk Safe?

Some tout raw milk for its health benefits, while others emphasize its improved qualities for cheese and yogurt. But is raw milk safe?

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Back from The Vet: Just Kidding

While does most commonly deliver their kids without incident, proper preparation ensures that when problems with kidding arise, they can be identified and corrected quickly.

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Urolithiasis in Goats

While springtime goat care often focuses on does and kidding, don’t forget the male goats in your herd. Serious health issues can result from lumping their care in with late gestation does.

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