Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
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Keep your word and be on time.
Do what you say you will. Do not be late on the day
you pick up the goat. Do not be late with payment. Old-fashioned manners are important
when dealing with ranchers and farmers.
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Arrange transportation for the goats.
It should be clear ahead of time whether the goats
aretobepickedupbyyouoraretobedelivered.Ifyouarrangetopickthemup,arriveat
the promised time. Once the goats are home and settled, contact the seller to say a final
thank you and to notify him or her that the goats arrived safely. This will also give you
the opportunity to ask any final questions you may have.
Begin Keeping Records Right Away
Besides beginning your barn (milk production) record, keep your other records accurate and
organized from the first day when you bring your goats home. Obtain vaccination and worm-
ing records, along with any medical records from the seller, as well as registration records for
your purebred goats. File these in folders as soon as you receive them — do not leave them in
a pile on the corner of your desk. If you are paying for your goats on the day you receive
them, remember to file those receipts. Keep receipts for any rental vehicles or transport fees.
Also, make sure you file copies of licensing and regulatory paperwork.
Anatomy of a Goat
There are about 100 documented breeds and varieties of domestic goat. All goats share similar
characteristics, breeding traits, and flocking instincts. Goats are small ruminants, meaning
their digestive systems consist of multiple stomachs. Domestic goats are typically categorized
according to their usage as dairy, meat, or fiber-producing goats. The term “dual purpose”
refers to a breed or individual goat that belongs to more than one of these categories. For ex-
ample, you might have a milk-producing goat with lovely long hair that can be sheared and
spun into yarn.
Goats are herbivores. Their bodies process grains, plants, and their own mothers' milk to sup-
ply all the nutrients they need. All herbivores share some common traits. For example, if you
look at the head of a goat, sheep, horse, or cow, you will notice the eyes are set on the side of
the head, not at the front like human eyes or those of your dog or your cat. This is because in
the animal world, herbivores are most often the prey of carnivores. Carnivores have eyes that
see ahead for tracking and hunting. Herbivores are stalked and set upon as they graze, and
