Are you interested in keeping goats? You’re definitely in good company! Goats are winning hearts all over the place. They’re not only petting zoo favorites, they’re also often used for landscaping. Of course, before taking the plunge, you’ll need to decide what type of goats you want. A local Wichita, KS vet offers some advice on this below.
Purpose
It may be tempting to go with the most adorable baby goats you’ve seen, but there are a few things to consider beside the cuteness factor here. Think about what you want goats for. Some people keep them for milk or meat, others for landscaping, and some just want to have a few to keep their horses and cows company. Billy also makes a great pet!
Size
Another thing to consider is the amount of space you have to dedicate to Billy. If you have a lot of land, you can opt for a larger breed. Alpines are quite large, but they tend to be very sweet. If you have limited space, you may want to stick with smaller goats, such as Pygmy or Nigerian Dwarf goats.
Milk
If you want to keep goats mainly for dairy, then one thing to look at would be milk production. Alpines are great producers, and can give up to a gallon a day. Lamancha goats, though much smaller, can produce similar qualities. The Saanen is another top producer, and is quite friendly.
Mannerisms
While every animal is unique, goats do vary a bit as far as temperament. Some of the most lovable ones include the Nubian, Pygmy, Nigerian Dwarf, Kiko, and Boer. Of course, no matter what type of goat you get, you’ll need to do some work on training and socialization.
Health
No matter what type of goat you get, it’s important to choose a healthy one. While a thorough veterinary exam is going to be the ultimate gauge, there are some things to look for. Billy should be alert and energetic. His eyes should be clear and bright, and you shouldn’t see any sign of lice or mites in his fur. You’ll also want to check his overall body shape and condition. You’ll also want to inspect the goat’s mouth and teeth: they should look pretty even.
Do you have questions about goat care or housing? Please feel free to contact us, your local Wichita, KS pet clinic, today!