As a Backyard Goats member, you’ll have access to our complete lineup of Goat Notes.
Goat Notes are easy-to-digest, one-page documents that teach you what you need in a hurry.
These handy reference sheets are easy to download or print out. They make great teaching aids whether you want to educate yourself, your friends and family, or your customers.
Caprine arthritis and encephalitis is a viral infection often manifested as arthritis in adult goats and, less
commonly, as progressive inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) in kids. Most often found in dairy goat breeds and sometimes in sheep.
Developing a euthanasia plan with your veterinarian ensures animal welfare in the worst situations. While some goat owners prefer other euthanasia methods, this sheet focuses strictly on the gunshot and captive bolt methods. Check your local laws to ensure all parts of this tutorial are legal within your area and decide if this is the best plan for your farm.
Read MoreEach state has different requirements if you wish to enter with your goats. Check this list, and verify that no requirements have changed, before you begin your journey.
Read MoreLike magic, a simmering pot on the stove can transform a few simple ingredients into a rich and creamy caramelized concoction to be used on ice cream, crêpes, pancakes, cinnamon rolls, cheese-cake, scones, fresh fruit, cheeses, and more.
Read MoreWhen goats can’t browse, they need hay (3% to 4% of their body weight, per day) for their rumens to function properly. This can be fed free-choice or twice a day.
Read MoreTypical goat hoof trimming should be completed every two to three months. Spring and fall are especially important, as folds in overgrown hooves can trap mud and moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to invite rot and scald.
Read MoreFoot rot and related foot scald cause soreness and limping. In severe cases, goats will try to walk on their knees. When you see goats limping, examine the hoof.
Read MoreDeciduous incisors generally erupt one pair per week from birth, so you can reckon a kid’s age. The first two middle permanent incisors emerge as a yearling approaches 18 months old.
Read MoreDuring labor, the doe progresses through three stages.
Read MoreWhen selecting a mineral supplement for your herd, choose one made specifically for goats. Supplements made for other species will not provide optimum levels and may even be harmful.
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