When purchasing a new goat from a breeder, it can be overwhelming and exciting. Often times I see beginners getting caught up and starry eyed purchasing the cutest, flashy cheap kids. I have comprised a few items you should look for and ask about to avoid dealing with issues in the future. A great breeder cares about where their goats go and how they are treated and cared for even after they leave the property. The best livestock owners have a growth mindset and are always looking to improve and better everything.
Check on the breeders experience. Look for breeders that have a few years experience or are at least being mentored by an experienced breeder. Experience = Knowledge. Goat vets are hard to access. Ask them if they have a vet that they go to or a mentor. If you are purchasing goats from them and declare you are a beginner, they should offer to mentor you. Ask lots of questions. A breeder should always have the patience and time to answer questions.
Always purchase from a clean tested herd. Ask to see the test results and do not fall for the “I have a closed herd” or ” I bought them from a tested herd”. Understand that all ruminants on the property should be tested. Cows, llamas, alpacas, sheep, deer. Often you will hear them talk about invalidity of test results. that should be a red flag. Look for my next blog on Johnes in the next few weeks. Biosecurity measures should be talked about. What are theirs? What will yours look like? Don’t be offended if a farm asks you to wear booties on your shoes/boots.
Tour the farm. Animals should look fed, and overall be pleasant and content. Kids should have energy. Fresh clean water should be visible. Hay and grain should be fed up and off the ground. Hooves should be trimmed. Barns and pens should be cleaned. Eyes bright and clear. Healthy ND kids should be around 20lbs at 8 weeks.
Ask what their deworming strategies are? What do they put on topically for Lice/Mite prevention? What is their vaccinating schedule? Talk about their Cocci prevention. Talk about the hoof trimming schedule and ask if they will show you how, if you both have the time.
Ask about what minerals and grains are being used. Goats prefer loose minerals and grains should be used when an animal is pregnant and lactating. Year round graining is absolutely ok as well.
I hope this helps anyone looking to purchase goats!
Minn E Acres Farm 