Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
A mature goat has eight teeth in its lower jaw.
Handling Goats
Goats are one of the trickiest animals to handle. You should handle kids often from a young
age to get them used to it. You will need to handle your goats regularly for things such as
worming, vaccinations, hoof trimming, and other routine matters. These events will go much
more smoothly if your goats are used to being handled.
Goats are different from some other livestock. When they are upset they may lie down or
cram themselves into a corner. They sometimes become aggressive toward each other. Unlike
some animals, goats are led by their females and stay in family groups. And, if you have any
weak spots in your fences, your goats will find them.
Goats can wear halters or collars, which helps in leading them. They can be led by offering
them a bucket of feed. It is usually easiest to handle a goat if you lead it to the corner of a
small pen and block its escape. In this situation, you can trim a goat's hooves or give the an-
imal vaccinations. You can restrain the goat against a wall or place it on a milking stand to
work on its hooves.
Be calm and patient when you work with goats. Keep your voice low, and try to minimize
stress.
