Amber Waves Pygmy Goats

How to Raise Goats in Your Backyard - Video Dailymotion

2012-02-27T04:23:00.001-08:00

How to Raise Goats in Your Backyard by 5minPets

Creep Feeding Primer

2012-02-26T13:24:00.002-08:00

Creep Feeding Primer

By Susan Schoenian
University of Maryland Extension
sheepandgoat.com

Creep feeding is a means of providing supplemental nutrition to nursing lambs and kids. It is accomplished by giving lambs and kids access to extra feed or better pasture, while excluding their dams.

Lambs and kids that are born in the winter months are often creep fed, since pasture is usually not readily available. Show animals are typically creep fed, in order to get them bigger for show.

Creep feeding is recommended for accelerated lambing and kidding programs, in flocks and herds where there are a lot of multiple births, and anytime milk production is a limiting factor. Artificially-reared lambs and kids should probably be creep fed. Creep feeding is also advisable when pasture quality or quantity is lacking.

Lambs and kids that are creep-fed will almost always grow faster than those that are not, especially if grain is the source of supplemental nutrition. Faster growth means lambs and kids can be marketed younger and sooner, often in time for high demand periods (e.g. Orthodox Easter).

Creep feeding teaches young animals to eat. It reduces the stress of early weaning. The rumens of creep-fed lambs and kids will develop faster. I've seen three week old lambs chewing their cuds. It is always more economical to feed lambs and kids than does and ewes. A young lamb or kid converts feed to gain very efficiently. The extra nutrition (especially protein) may help to improve tolerance to internal parasites.

Waiting their turn Creep feeding does not need to be complicated. A "creep area" may be set up in the barn or out on pasture. The creep barrier needs to be big enough for lambs to fit through, but small enough to keep even the smallest ewe out. A tire can be used as a creep barrier. Some gates have big enough openings that kid goats can slip through. The creep area should be clean and well-bedded, an area where the lambs and kids will like to go.

Creep feed may be fed in troughs or self-feeders. Good creep feeders don't allow lambs or kids to play on (or in) or put their feet in the feeders. Creep rations don't need to be complicated -- just fresh, palatable, always available, and highly digestible. Typical feed ingredients are ground or cracked corn, alfalfa hay or meal, soybean meal, oats, and molasses. The percent protein in the creep ration should be at least 14 to 18. The protein should be all-natural (no urea).

It is recommended that lambs and kids be introduced to creep feed early in life, ideally by the time they are 10 days old. You can make your own creep ration or purchase a commercial product. On my farm, I start with a mixture of soybean meal, cracked corn, and minerals. Some producers use straight soybean meal for their creep starter or top-dress their creep ration with it. Soybean meal is very palatable to young lambs and kids. As my lambs get older and begin chewing their cuds, I gradually switch their creep ration to whole barley and a pelleted protein supplement.

When lambs are young, feeds with a small particle size are more palatable to them. As they get older, they prefer coarser feeds and are able to digest whole grains very efficiently. The protein content of the ration can be reduced as the lambs get older.

Eating Creep Feed

For disease prevention, it is a good idea to include a coccidiostat (Bovatec®, Rumensin®, or Deccox®) and urine acidifier (e.g. ammonium chloride) in the creep ration. The ratio of calcium to phosphorus should be at least 2:1 to prevent urinary calculi in male lambs and kids.

Creep-fed lambs and kids are more susceptible to enterotoxemia, "classical" overeating disease (clostridium perfringins type D). Their dams should be vaccinated approximately one month before parturition. Lambs and kids should be vaccinated after their colostrial immunity wanes, at approximately 6-8 and 10-12 weeks of age.

Lambs and kids from unvaccinated dams should receive their first vaccination for overeating disease when they approximately four weeks old, followed by a booster four weeks later. Earlier vaccines are not likely to be effective due to the immature immune system of young lambs and kids and interference of the maternal antibodies. Overeating disease most commonly affects the fastest growing lambs and kids, usually past a month of age.

Creep feeding is a common practice in the sheep and goat industry. All producers need to evaluate the appropriateness of the practice for their production and marketing systems. For creep feeding to be economical, the higher value (extra weight and higher prices) of creep-fed lambs and kids needs to exceed the cost of the creep feed. Creep feeding may not always be economical, especially on farms with high quality forage. Creep feeding is more likely to be cost-effective with lambs than goats.

Goat's Special Nutrition Needs

2012-02-23T03:07:00.000-08:00

DIET AND DIGESTION
Goats are related to other ruminant cud-chewing animals such as cattle and sheep. For this reason, it was once believed that goats could be fed the same as their ruminant cousins. But goats are primarily browsers, selectively eating a wide variety of shrubs, woody plants, weeds, and briars. In fact, goats are far more similar to deer than to either cattle or sheep. Unfortunately many goats, especially does, are unable to get enough nutrients from browse alone to meet their needs. It is also important to realize that certain types of browse pose a danger, including: wild cherry, hemlock, azaleas and species of the laurel family are all poisonous to goats.

To provide the nutrition goats need to reach their full potential, supplemental feeding is needed.

PROBLEMS WITH HAY AND PASTURE
Hay and pasture may vary considerably in quality and nutrient value. Of particular concern is the extreme variation that occurs in key nutrients such as protein, fiber and energy needed to promote growth and good milk production. Protein quality can also vary. Inconsistencies in quality can be influenced by climate, land use and time of year. Controlling these inconsistencies is an important part of providing the nutrition your goats need to lead healthy, productive lives. For this reason, Purina has developed a full line of goat feeds designed to take the guesswork out of feeding goats for all life and development stages.

THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTRITIONAL BALANCE
The productivity and well-being of your goats depends largely on the quality and quantity of the feeding program you provide. Balancing your goat's feeding program and providing the correct diet ensures your goats are receiving the total sum of the daily nutrients they need for optimal health. Nutrient needs will vary depending on the goat's life stage and activity level. A feeding program balanced for maintenance, for example, will not be sufficient to meet the nutritional needs of growth, pregnancy, lactation, wool production or for developing body conditioning and coat quality for showing. As nutritional demands rise with increased production demands, it will be important to readjust your goat's diet and feeding program accordingly.

SUPPLEMENTING A FORAGE DIET
The nutrient quality of forage can vary from season to season or even field to field as discussed earlier. So, when you want your goats to thrive, you should consider adding a supplemental feed to their forage diet. Supplemental feeds, like Purina^® Goat Chow^® feed, provide the consistent nutrients not found in forage to ensure optimum nutrition. Supplemental feeds come in coarse grain mixtures or pelleted forms. Purina^® Goat Chow^® feed is a coarse grain mixture.

USING A COMPLETE FEED
Roughage is an essential part of good goat nutrition. But many times good quality forage is not available to provide roughage. Complete feeds not only contain the built-in roughage goats need, but other important nutrients as well. So with a complete feed, like Purina^® Meat Goat 16 or Purina^® Honor^® Show Chow^® Goat, you know your goats are consistently receiving total nutrition in every bite. Complete feeds are convenient, too, minimizing clean-up from wasted or uneaten forage.

SELECTING A FEED FORM
In addition to choosing a supplemental or complete feed, you also have a choice of feed form. One choice is a sweet feed, a highly palatable, coarse grain mix that contains molasses. Almost all goats will eat sweet feeds, making it an excellent choice for even the most finicky eater. You may choose a pelleted feed. While many goat owners feel their goats may not prefer pelleted rations, they readily eat it when it is the only source of feed available and it offers several advantages. Pelleted feeds contain all the nutritious grains, vitamins and minerals your goat needs. Pellets eliminate sorting and help prevent waste that commonly occurs with coarse grain rations, making them very efficient in commercial operations. Convenient for you and good for your goat, Purina^®Goat Chow^® diets are available as either a complete or supplemental feed form.

If you are unsure which feed is right for your goats, your Purina Certified Expert Dealer has all the right training and tools to help you design a feeding program especially suited to your goats' environment and lifestyle.

A library of past issues of Better Animal E—zines and an introductory video is maintained and can be accessed by clicking here.

Better Animals^®
10715 Kahlmeyer Dr.
St. Louis, MO 63132

Our Newest Fence Banner

2012-02-22T05:29:00.001-08:00

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Does ultra-sounded pregnant by our vet 2-21-12

2012-02-22T04:00:00.000-08:00

Amber Waves Marley and Me Bred to Proverbial Pygmies So Under Cover
Animal Haven Salsa – Bred to Hindsquarters Farm Austin
Amber Waves for Your consideration – Bred to Proverbial Pygmies So Under Cover
Fir Meadow Yardley English Lavender – Bred to Proverbial Pygmies So Undercover
Bowler Farms Emily – Bred to Pr0overbial Pygmies So Under Cover
Animal Haven Deception – Bred to Hindsquarters Farm Austin
Amber Waves Coraline – Bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair
Bowler4 Farms Amzzi – Bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair

Congratulations to our newest customer ...

2012-02-20T05:09:00.000-08:00

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces on the purchase of two doe kids from Amber Waves

Picture source. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohammed_bin_Zayed_Al_Nahyan

Study: Goats can develop 'accents'

2012-02-18T12:07:00.001-08:00

Study: Goats can develop 'accents'
UPI.com
17 (UPI) -- Goats, like people, can develop accents based on their surroundings, a British university study indicates. Until now, experts assumed most species' "voices" were dictated exclusively by genetics and not their surroundings.
See all stories on this topic »

Jamba's Pygmies Felicity Kids 2/1/12

2012-02-07T06:07:00.000-08:00

2 Males - 1 Doe
Sire: Jamba's Pygmies Little Saint Nick

Jamba's Pygmies Badlands
Black - Wether - Sold Pre-Deposit

Jamba's Pygmies Bullitt
Black Wether - Sold Pre-Deposit

Jamba's Pygmies Ashes and Diamonds
Black Doe - Sold Pre-Deposit

Twilight Ranch Jewels by Tiffany Kids 1/26/2012

2012-02-07T06:03:00.000-08:00

Two beautiful boys - Sold

Amber Waves Chicago - Agouti

Sire: B/C Pygmies Barney

Amber Waves Rolling Thunder - Brown Agouti

Sire: B/C Pygmies Barney

Goat's Milk: Better For You, Better For The Environment

2012-02-05T06:29:00.001-08:00

Goat's Milk: Better For You, Better For The Environment
BlissTree
But one type of milk we haven't explored yet is goat's milk. I always thought goat'smilk was pretty much identical to cow's milk except, you know, it came from a goat. But there are actually quite a few differences between the two—and goat's milk ...
See all stories on this topic »

Hoeggers Februrary Newsletter

2012-02-03T05:03:00.001-08:00

February Newsletter

2012 has arrived and here is the first of Hoegger’s New Year Resolutions: A Newsletter! The Hoegger Farmyard Newsletter will be available monthly and will include articles on goat health, cheesemaking, soap making and more based on what’s relevant to our customers and what’s going on in our community.

Kidding season is our favorite time of the year! We want to help you be prepared and confident as the big event comes closer. Here are 8 simple things to remember to keep your stress down and your kids healthy! These 8 steps are inexpensive and proven to give you the best shot at trouble-free goat rearing: Read More »

The overall nutrition and health of your does is the single most important factor in having trouble free pregnancy and healthy kids. Make sure that you are providing high quality feed and maintaining a stress-free environment. Poor nutrition, cold weather, or overcrowding can all lead to abortion. For any of the following pregnancy issues, or any other issues, remember, an immune system boost can make the difference. Read More »
Keep Bovi Sera on hand always!

Every goat owner needs to develop a monthly plan and schedule for raising dairy goats based on what works best for them. I wanted to share what we have developed over the past 25 years at my Forget Me Not Farm. This monthly schedule is meant to be a guide to new goat owners and should be considered flexible to meet your own specific needs. Read More »

Hoegger Supply is super excited about Mary Jane Toth’s new recipe book, A Cheesemaker’s Journey: A practical guide to beginning and improving cheesemaking at home. We had the opportunity to sit down with Mary Jane and asked her to tell us why this isn’t just another recipe book. We know there’s still snow outside but that’s just another reason to cuddle-up in front of the fire and dream of the cheese we’ll be making later in the year. Read More »

30% OFF Nutri-Drench
until 2/15 | Coupon Code: NUTRI

Nutri-Drench is a must have for the kidding season! From giving pregnant does an energy boost to bringing strength to weak, undernourished and stressed kids, Nutri-Drench provides essential vitamins, nutrients, amino acids, and glucose that are absorbed into the bloodstream within 10 minutes. We’ve relied on this for years and we want it to be in your medicine cabinet as well. Shop Now »

You're the Experts:
Write an article and submit it.

If we use it in the newsletter or post it on the farmyard, we’ll send you a Hoegger Farmyard Contributor T-shirt. Read More »

Goat Pregnancy Issues and Prevention

2012-01-31T05:48:00.001-08:00

Ketosis | Selenium Deficiency | Milk Fever | Entrotoxemia & Tetanus

Goat Pregnancy Issues and Prevention

The overall nutrition and health of your does is the single most important factor in having trouble free pregnancy and healthy kids. Make sure that you are providing high quality feed, maintaining a stress free environment. Poor nutrition, cold weather, or overcrowding can all lead to abortion. For any of the following pregnancy issues, or any other issues, remember, an immune system boost can make the difference.
Keep Bovi Sera on hand always!

Ketosis occurs within the last few weeks of pregnancy. Common symptoms include loss of appetite, spastic motion, twitching ears and inability to stand. Labored breathing, coma and death can result. Provide a sufficient,... Read More »

Supplies for prevention and treatment:
• Nutri Drench »
• Keto-Nia Drench »
• Econo Drench Syringe »

Selenium Deficiency symptoms include skin disorders, white muscle disease (a type of muscular dystrophy), lowered reproduction and conception rate, decreased milk production and milk quality. Soil deficient in selenium produces plants with the same condition which results in your does not having enough selenium. Read More »
Supplies for prevention and treatment:
• Golden Blend Minerals »

Milk Fever is a blood calcium deficiency that occurs in does just before and just after kidding.

Symptoms: Weakness in hind quarters, back feet dragging, constipation and inability to withstand normal labor.
Causes: Excessive calcium intake that exceeds her needs...Read More »

Supplies for prevention and treatment:
• Calcium Drench »
• Econo Drench Syringe »

By doing a 2 cc sub-Q injection of C&D/Tetanus Toxoid Vaccine 4 to 6 weeks prior to kidding, you will encourage the doe to build up antibodies against Entrotoxemia and Tetanus. These antibodies can be passed through the colostrum to the newborn kids... Read More »
Supplies for prevention and treatment:
• C&D/Tetanus Toxoid Vaccine »

Dehorning Dilemma

2012-01-31T04:47:00.001-08:00

Dehorning Dilemma
This is an excerpt form a very good blog piece on this somewhat controversial topic:

"For goats in the wild, or more primitive domestic settings, horns serve several purposes: First as a means of defense against predators, second as a way to radiate excess body heat when temperatures are high, and lastly as a way to reach that really-itchy-spot between their shoulder blades. For most domesticated goats, though, horns present several life threatening and quality of life issues: The most concerning issue is that horns lead to becoming entrapped in fencing- it is easy to stick one's head through the fence when horns are present, but all but impossible to extract. When trapped in a fence several horrible things can happen to the animal......"

(Read the full article here)

Goat Rearing – 4 Success Guides Raising Goats For Beginners

2012-01-15T03:36:00.001-08:00

Goat Rearing – 4 Success Guides Raising Goats For Beginners

How to Build a Goat House – 5 Easy Tips To Consider Before Putting Up Your Own Goat Farm

2012-01-15T03:36:00.000-08:00

How to Build a Goat House – 5 Easy Tips To Consider Before Putting Up Your Own Goat Farm

Goat Fencing – Crucial And Easy Tips If You Are Just Starting To Raise Goats

2012-01-15T03:35:00.000-08:00

Goat Fencing – Crucial And Easy Tips If You Are Just Starting To Raise Goats

2012 Special Buck Service Rates for Pygmy goat Customers who have purchased does from Amber Waves

2012-01-14T07:00:00.001-08:00

Customize a newsletter

Pygmy Goats Make Excellent and Unique Pets

2012-01-13T03:54:00.000-08:00

If you want to bring fun, affectionate, unique pets into your home, look no further than African pygmy goats! Pygmy goats make excellent pets because, among many other wonderful things, they are intelligent, playful, and easy to take care of. However, before purchasing pygmy goats, it is important to learn about these unique animals to ensure they will fit well into your lifestyle before bringing them home.

The following article will provide an overview of African pygmy goats and how to care for them, and once you decide to open your home and heart to them, contact the breeders of Amber Waves to purchase pygmy goats and get any questions answered.

The rich history of African pygmy goats

As their name suggests, African pygmy goats originated in Africa – in the Cameroon Valley of West Africa to be exact. Pygmy goats were first brought out of Africa as additions to European zoos, and from Europe, pygmy goats made their way into the United States in the 1950s. While they were only found in zoos and research facilities in the United States at first, they quickly became popular pets because of their unique, friendly personalities and hardy construction.

Today, pygmy goats can be found as pets in urban, suburban, and rural areas across the United States as they can acclimate to nearly any climate. These unique creatures tend to live between 10 and 15 years.

Colors

Part of the fun of pygmy goats is the variety of colors and patterns found in breed. While there are only three basic colors (black, medium brown, and dark brown) that form the color base for the breed, pygmy goats are rarely solid in color; therefore, many color patterns are possible. For example, the agouti and caramel patterns can be superimposed over variations of the three basic colors.

The nine color patterns that cover the vast majority of pygmy goats are: black, black/grey agouti, black trim caramel, medium brown, medium brown agouti, medium brown trim caramel, dark brown, dark brown agouti, and dark brown trim caramel. White spotting may or may not be present on any of these color patterns, and white frosting is often present on the ears and muzzles. All colors besides solid medium brown and dark brown are accepted by the National Pygmy Goat Association as conforming to the breed standard.

The differences between bucks, does and wethers

Pygmy goats can be purchased as does (females), bucks (males), or wethers (castrated males). Full grown does and wethers range in height from 16 to 23 inches and usually weigh between 40 and 70 pounds; bucks range in height from 19 to 25 inches and usually weight between 60 and 85 pounds. While bucks, does, and wethers can all make excellent pets, there are certain considerations that must be made when deciding which to purchase. Does and bucks should be kept separate unless mating, so you will need double the housing and fenced in roaming areas if you choose raise both males and females. Also, as pygmy goats are herd animals, you should consider purchasing at least two goats that can live and play together. Wethers may be kept with either does or bucks, and they are generally the least expensive of the bunch to raise.

Costs of raising pygmy goats

One reason pygmy goats make such wonderful pets is they are quite inexpensive to keep; however, it is important to realize that costs are quite variable depending on the housing and fencing you choose, the feed you provide your goats, the number of goats you have, and incidentals.

Housing and fencing can be very basic, and thus, can be created or purchased for a small amount of money. More elaborate, expensive options are also available. Feed, which typically is grains, is also inexpensive; hay is also necessary to provide your goat with, and fortunately, it can also be procured for little money.

Vaccinations, de-worming, medications, and veterinarian visits are also necessary from time to time, and these costs vary considerably. It is advisable to contact a local veterinarian before purchasing pygmy goats to get a good understanding of how much it will cost should you need their services.

Zoning

Pygmy goats are considered livestock so you should check with your city or county before bringing any into your home. That being said, pygmy goats don’t require a large amount of space and are found in rural, suburban, and urban areas across the United States. Therefore, it is quite possible that you will be able to raise pygmy goats at your home; even if your city’s current policies are unfavorable to raising pygmy goats, there is no harm in asking them to make allowances so you can bring pygmy goats into your home!

Feeding

Pygmy goats are easy to feed; once you know what to feed them, the most important thing to remember is that pygmy goats need a clean feeding area and will forgo eating if their food is soiled. Food should be elevated off the ground, but not so high as to prevent the shortest goat from eating. In addition to the foraging that your pygmy goats will be engaging in during play times in their fenced in area, goats require grains such as oats, goat ration, sweet feed, and corn. Each goat should be fed ¼ cup of grains twice daily. A mineral/salt block should also be available to pygmy goats to ensure they are getting the necessary vitamins and minerals. Also, clean water must always be available to your pygmy goats.

Housing & Fencing

Pygmy goat housing can be extremely simple; in its most basic form, it can be a three-sided shed or modified dog house, assuming it is large enough. Of course, you can purchase or build more elaborate barns or housing for your goats. Important considerations are: the housing must be secure enough to keep the goats in and predators out, the roofing must be leak-proof, and the housing should be more or less insulated depending on the climate you live in. Allow for approximately 15 to 20 square feet per goat; pygmies tend to prefer sleeping off the ground, which should be taken into consideration while creating housing. Finally, be sure to bed down the housing with fresh grass, straw, or hay, always give pygmies access to clean water, and keep their living quarters as clean as possible.

Ideally, you should set up a fenced in area next to the housing you have created for your pygmy goats so they can roam freely between their shelter and grassy area. Like the housing, the fenced in area must be secure so that the goats are safe from predators and cannot escape. Fences should be at least four feet high.

Health

Generally speaking, goats are extremely healthy, hardy animals. The healthiest of goats will appear bright and alert with no discharge coming from their eyes or nose. Some major health problems that can affect pygmy goats include Caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE), Caseous Lymphadenitis (CL), and Johne's Disease; however, purchasing from a reputable breeder who regularly tests its herd for these diseases will greatly reduce your chances of getting goats with health problems. Before bringing any pygmy goats into your home, you should find a veterinarian that can easily handle any minor health problems that may occur.

African pygmy goats provide their owners with years of affection and entertainment while only requiring a minimal investment of resources and time. However, to ensure the best possible pygmy goat experience, only purchase pygmy goats from a reputable breeder. Amber Waves, an industry leader for over 26 years, provides its clients with healthy goats and support over the entire lifetime of the goats. Contact Amber Waves (www.amberwavespygmygoats.com) to purchase pygmy goats and get all of your pygmy goat questions answered.

Amber Waves Pygmy Goat Sales List Up-Dated

2012-01-12T06:25:00.000-08:00

http://awpygmygoats.blogspot.com/p/pygmy-goats-for-sale.html

The Associated Press that says goats are making inroads into cities along the same lines as chickens and bees.

2012-01-09T02:21:00.001-08:00

Are goats becoming the next chickens?
Quad City Times
I recently read an article by The Associated Press that says goats are making inroads into cities along the same lines as chickens and bees. According to the story from Seattle, urban goat farming is part of a nationwide movement to eat locally ...
See all stories on this topic »

Give the Gift of Good health for Your goat

2011-12-26T03:38:00.000-08:00

Give your goat the gift of good health by learning how to perform a 4-Point Circular Health Check. An important part of properly caring for your goats is being able to distinguish when they're unhealthy and need some extra care. Many ailments can be caught and then treated by performing a simple visual inspection of your animal with the Circular Health Check about once a week. The Circular Health check starts at the top of the goat and goes all the way around.

STOP 1: HEAD
Eyes — A goat's eyes should be bright and clear. If they're watery, runny, red, or filled with mucus, there could be problems.
Nose — The nose should be soft, wet. Watch out for any discharge or a dry or cracked nose.
Ears — Be on the lookout for mites, excessive buildup of dust or dirt or other mangy looking things.
Mouth — A goat's mouth can have problems similar to a human's mouth. Their gums should be pinkish, not red, inflamed, or bleeding. You may also be able to smell an infection on their breath. Although a goat's breath will smell like the grains, flowers, or other feed they are eating, a particularly rotten smell may call for a deeper inspection. Checking out a goat's mouth is very necessary because of the things they eat or chew on that can puncture their gums and cause an infection.

STOP 2: BASE OF THE BODY
Hair — Working your way back along the body, inspect your goat's skin and hair. The skin should be bright and pliable. Hair should look healthy and shiny, not dry and brittle. Any sections of missing hair could have been rubbed off by the goat because of itchy external parasites. Missing or thinning hair could also be a sign of mineral deficiency.
Tail — Check a goat's tail for hair loss and make sure it isn't infected.

STOP 3: BACK AND BOTTOM OF BODY
Anus — Make sure you're checking under the tail at your goat's anus. Dry fecal matter could mean diarrhea. The feces should be normal round pellets and not loose or runny.
Specific cautions:
Rectal or vaginal prolapse — Prolapse is when the inner organs get out of place and begin to fall out of the anus or the vagina. If a doe has had a difficult time having a kid, be particularly aware of vaginal prolapse. Always call a vet if you see signs of a prolapse! Also watch for infections resulting in discharge from the vagina. Reproductive tract infections could cause fertility issues down the road.
Mastitis — Mastitis is an infection inside of the mammary gland and is generally the result of unsanitary bedding and/or milking procedures. The teats will be red and sore. Your goats may also have clotted material coming out in the milk. Even if you're not milking your goats, mastitis is something to be aware of, as untreated mastitis can result in loss if udder function.
Urinary Calculi — Male goats are more likely to have urination problems, so watch them to see if they are straining to urinate. This is likely a sign of urinary calculi, stones in the urinary tract. If a goat is straining to urinate, get a veterinarian immediately!! This is an emergency!!

STOP 4: LEGS AND HOOVES
Legs — Legs should be straight and free of bony growths or blemishes. The animal should move with an easy, normal gait.
Hooves — Goats' hooves should be pliable and strong and not brittle or cracked. Also check their toes, which may need a trimming. If your goats are primarily on soft surfaces they may need a trim once a month.

THE OVERALL PICTURE
Always be aware of the way your goats are moving and acting. If they're less lively than normal and keeping their heads down, it is a sign they're not feeling 100 percent.

After you've gotten used to doing regular visual checks on your goats, it will become second nature. You'll become used to your animal's normal appearance and should ask yourself if anything looks different. If you do identify a problem with your goat, be sure to speak with your veterinarian right away to avoid any further problems.

A library of past issues of Better Animal E—zines and an introductory video is maintained and can be accessed by clicking here.

Pygmy Goats

2011-12-23T02:23:00.000-08:00

Goat Breeds — An Online Goat Resource
Anyone who raises goats or is considering having goats, has a specific reason or expectation in mind from the venture. Different breeds of goats are raised for various purposes, such as for their meat or milk, or as work animals. Some are raised for the fiber used from their coats in the manufacture of cashmere or mohair clothing and accessories. Goat breeds have different characteristics, as well, and some people find a goat makes a lively and delightful pet. Before beginning a goat raising project or looking for a pet, first decide what results are desired, and then it will be possible to find the breed best suited for that particular situation.

Pygmy Goats
Visit http://www.goatbreeds.org/pygmy-goats/

Pygmy goats are small domestic goats whose ancestors were originally from the Cameroon Valley of West Africa. The African goats were bred with Swedish goats and became a popular attraction in European zoos. Imported to the United States in 1959, this new breed of goat soon became highly desired as pets and as attractions in American petting zoos.

Pygmy goats are usually 16 to 23 inches tall. Females can weigh anywhere from 50 to 75 pounds, and males usually weigh between 60 to 86 pounds. Unlike other goat breeds, pygmies are characterized by very short legs, broad faces and stocky bodies. Their coats can be black, caramel, solid black, grey agouti, black agouti and brown agouti. Agouti is a term that refers to the pattern of white intermingled with another color. Goats that have agouti markings also have solid-colored marks on their legs. These marks are known as stockings. These stockings are black on the grey and black agouti goats, and they are brown on the brown agoutis.

Unlike most dairy goats, pygmies are able to breed several times throughout the year, and they can have anywhere from one to four kids at a time. The typical gestation period is about five months. Because of their frequent breeding abilities, pygmies are able to produce milk throughout the year. Young goats can go into heat when they are only two months old, so females are separated from males at an early age. If a male goat is going to be kept as a pet, he is usually neutered while he is still quite young.

Although pygmies can be used to provide milk, they are primarily kept as pets and used in petting zoos. Pygmies are known for their gentle nature and high intelligence, and they are very easy to care for. For the most part, they are also very healthy animals, and they are able to resist many different diseases. Pygmies can easily adapt to any climate, and they do not require a lot of space. If goats are kept as part of a herd, they do best in their own barn. Some owners even keep their pet goats inside with them, and others use a large dog house to shelter their pygmy.

Pygmy goats do need to be kept in a secure area because they are easily preyed upon by other animals. Their short legs are not good for running far, so pet dogs should not be allowed to chase them. Like most herd animals, pygmies hate to be alone, and they do best when they are raised with a companion. The companion can be another goat, or it can even be a dog or cat. Pygmies typically graze on grass and other plants outside, and they also like to eat hay. Some owners feed their goats special goat feed, but food that is meant for other animals or humans should not be used. Pygmies also need fresh, clean water, and they have been known to refuse water that is dirty or stale.

Does Ultra-Sounded 12/20/11

2011-12-21T03:23:00.000-08:00

Now accepting deposits on 2012 kiddings.

Ulta-Sounded Pregnant - E- mail for deposit form

Fir Meadow Yesica bred to Fir Meadow Born In The USA
Desert Willow She's Got Finesse II - Bred to Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit
Bowler Farms Amelia bred to Fir Meadow Born in The USA
Little Eden's Sweet Ghirardelli bred to B/C Pygmies Barney
Bowler Farms Kisseybaby bred to Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit
Hammork Family Farm Snickerdoodle bred to Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit
Amber Waves A Simple Wish bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair
Twilight Ranch Cover-girl bred to Hindsquarters Farm Austin
Proverbial Pygmies Amelia bred to Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit
Amber Waves Winter Solstice bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair
Jamba's Pygmies Felicity bred to Jamba's Pygmies Little Saint Nick

Beginning With Goats

2011-12-20T05:06:00.000-08:00

Missouri Beginning Farming: Goats Require Minimal Investment But ...
There are several major benefits to raising meat goats according to Dr. Jodie Pennington, ... “Raising goats requires minimal costs for facilities and investment. ...
missouribeginningfarming.blogspot.com/.../goats-require-mini...

Amber Waves Bill Durham - SOLD

2011-12-20T05:02:00.000-08:00

Amber Waves Bill Durham and Amber Waves Diva (Great Pyrenees Livestock Puppy)

Amber Waves Coming Home Sold - Louisiana

2011-12-19T03:04:00.000-08:00

Tori Spelling Surprised with a Goat and a Chicken

2011-12-19T02:24:00.001-08:00

Pygmy Goat Sales List Up-dated

2011-12-18T03:31:00.001-08:00

http://awpygmygoats.blogspot.com/p/pygmy-goats-for-sale.html

Minerals For Goats

2011-12-17T02:58:00.001-08:00

Minerals for Meat Goats

By Ken Ziemer

Ads by Google

Meat goats need to have certain minerals in order to stay healthy, to grow normally, to reproduce, and to have normal offspring. Minerals required by goats can be grouped into two categories based on the amounts needed in the diet. Macro minerals are needed in small quantities and trace mineral are needed in very small quantities. An article, by Dr. Steve Hart, on the Langston University website, lists seven macro minerals and eight trace mineral that are required by goats. Meat goat producers do not really need to know what these minerals are and how much is needed by goats since the major feed manufactures produce mineral supplements for goats, cattle, and sheep that contain all of the needed minerals at recommended levels for the areas in which these supplements are sold (the levels needed for some minerals depend on mineral levels in the soils at the location.) If fed free choice, goats will eat the right amounts to meet their mineral needs. These amounts will vary depending on the forages and feeds available to the goats. We prefer to use loose minerals because they are easier for the goats to eat and if fed in a properly designed mineral feeder will cause less contamination with goat manure. Goats like to paw at mineral blocks with their feet, and their feet are always full of goat manure. Goat manure is contaminated with internal parasite larva and eggs.

While good mineral supplements are very expensive per pound, goats will only need and eat very small amounts of them. It does not cost very much to feed a high-phosphorus, loose cattle mineral to goats free choice. We have been doing this for forty-five years with very good results. The mineral requirements of cattle and goats are the same, but cattle minerals are much less expensive than goat minerals. Do not use sheep minerals for goats because sheep minerals do not have enough copper for goats. The amount of copper needed by goats and cattle would be toxic to sheep.
The ratio of calcium (Ca) to phosphorus (P) in the diet of a goat is very important. It needs to be two parts calcium to one part phosphorus. This is a Ca to P ratio of 2 to 1. Remember this ratio is for the goat's total diet, not for the mineral supplement. Limestone is the main source of calcium for feed manufactures. Since limestone is cheaper than other feed ingredients and most grains and protein supplements have a lower than 2 to 1 ratio of Ca to P, most manufactured feeds have their Ca to P ratios adjusted to 2 to 1 by adding limestone. Thus manufactured feeds are neutral for Ca to P ratio. If a goats entire diet consists of manufactured feed (not a good way to feed goats) one might feed a mineral supplement with a 2 to 1 ratio, but check the feed label first because the feed may already have all the minerals that goats need added to it.

Most legumes (alfalfa, white clover, red clover, and lespedeza) have six to one, calcium to phosphorous ratios. Most grasses have two to one ratios. Legumes remove nitrogen from the air and add it to the soil. Thus legumes are high in protein and so are grasses growing with legumes. It is good to have legumes in pastures and hay, but goats fed legumes need a high phosphorous mineral supplement. Cattle, which are natural grazers, can tolerate higher calcium to phosphorous ratios than goats which are natural browsers. Goats will not eat white clover unless they have a high phosphorous mineral supplement free choice. We use a high phosphorous cattle mineral that is twelve percent calcium and twelve percent phosphorous (a 1 to 1 ratio.) We feed it free choice allowing the goats to balance their own Ca to P ratios. How much they eat depends on the types of forages they are eating.
It is reported that too much phosphorous relative to the calcium in the diet of goats can cause renal calculi (kidney stones.) In wethers and bucks these stones get lodged in the urethra often causing death. Our experience with feeding a high phosphorous mineral free choice for forty-five years has been that, as long as the goats have plenty of good quality forages free choice, plenty of clean water, and we do not feed any concentrate feeds containing less than eighteen percent fiber, our goats do not have any problems with renal calculi.

Ken Ziemer, author, has a bachelor's degree in agriculture. He started raising goats in 1962. His wife Candy was raised on a dairy goat farm and has worked with goats all her life. They have farmed and raised goats in Arkansas since 1967.hey are breeding Boer goats for hardiness, fertility, resistance to internal parasites, and efficient meat production on pastures. For more information on feeding meat goats check out their website, Critter Ridge Hardy Boer Meat Goats.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Ziemer

Brown Agouti Male Born 12/14/11 - For Sale (Just in time for Xmas)Amber Waves

2011-12-16T04:52:00.000-08:00


Amber Waves Coming Home (Pending) DOB: 12/14/11 - Brown Agouti Buck Sire: B/C Pygmies Barney Dam: Bowler Farms Luchia

This guy is extremely flashy! Lots of personality. Can go as a bottle baby or when completely weaned. His color is rare. Partial belly band.

Double click on pedigree to enlarge.


Double Click to Enlarge

E-mail for more information or call Jim's Cell (951) 233-4231

A GIGGLE with the GOATS Jingle Bells Holiday Performance

2011-12-16T02:24:00.001-08:00

Sydell has great goat products! Check them out and order a free catalog.

2011-12-13T04:29:00.000-08:00

Love their products we have several feeders and two stanchions from them!

Check out our Holiday Special online at www.sydell.com

SYDELL AND ITS STAFF WOULD LIKE TO WISH YOU HAPPY HOLIDAYS

We are proud of our quality and workmanship and that our products are made in the USA right here in Burbank, SD

FROM DEC. 11-31, 2011

Order between $250-$499, the freight will only be $50.00

Order between $500-$1499, the freight will only be $80.00

Order over $1500, the freight will only be $120.00

Even though our website will show a freight charge, we will adjust the freight according to your order size. This is for delivery within the continental U.S. only. Just click "ADD TO CART" on this Holiday Special and we will take it from there. No other discounts, specials or gift certificates apply.

Happy Holidays

Better Animals - Electronic Newsletter - Goat - November 2011

2011-12-07T03:51:00.000-08:00

GOAT TIPS Source | Nutrition for Every Goat Lifestyle

HOBBY GOATS
Goats are increasing in popularity as backyard pets. Their affectionate and curious nature quickly allows them to become part of the family. For hobby goats, Purina^® Goat Chow^® feed makes an excellent feed when fed along with quality hay or pasture. The amount of Purina^® Goat Chow^® feed can be varied depending on overall body condition to maintain goats in excellent health. And to give your goats a nutritious treat, provide Purina^® Goat Chow^® Mineral free choice.

SHOW GOATS
When raising show goats, besides growth performance, you also want animals to look their very best. Purina^® Show Chow^® Goat Ration provides not only the protein and energy needed to build muscle mass, its high fat formula with Availa 4^® minerals and Tasco^® provides nutrients needed for a shiny hair coat. The complete pelleted formula means nothing else needs to be added.

MEAT GOATS
The objective with meat goats is to allow them to grow and build muscle as quickly as possible. A complete pelleted feed like Purina^® Meat Goat 16% will provide all of the energy and protein needed for optimum muscle growth. The high-fiber complete pellet makes it a convenient feed for dry-lot situations. The inclusion of ammonium chloride helps minimize the incidence of urinary calculi (also known as water belly).

Goats raised in a confined or wet environment, are more likely to suffer from coccidiosis. Feeding a goat feed medicated with Deccox or Rumensin may help prevent coccidiosis.

DAIRY GOATS
Lactating dairy goats require extra protein, energy, minerals and vitamins to support milk production. An excellent dairy goat feeding program will be Purina^® Goat Chow^® goat ration fed along with long stemmed high-quality hay or pasture. Feed 1 lb of Purina^® Goat Chow^® goat ration for every three pounds of milk produced, along with access to plenty of high quality forage.

For kid goats, Purina^® Goat Chow^® goat ration makes an excellent creep feed. Provide Goat Chow^® goat ration free choice in a creep feeder starting at two weeks of age. For young kids from 4 weeks to 4 months of age, feed measured amounts of Goat Chow^® goat ration, up to 1.5% of body weight. Feed with good quality roughage to all goats after weaning.

RANGE - PASTURE GOATS
Goats are excellent at utilizing brush and browse that other animals will not consume. When goats are grazing pasture or brush, Purina^® Goat Chow^® Mineral makes an excellent supplement. Goat Chow^® Mineral fed free choice will provide the extra minerals and vitamins plus salt to help stimulate water intake. It's highly palatable and gives goats the mineral supplementation they need, when they need it.

Animals become infected by grazing on pastures seeded with droppings from infected goats. The first signs of infection are lethargy and rough hair coat. Animals that lose weight, have a poor appetite and in many cases diarrhea, may already be in various stages of anemia (pale lips, tongue and mucous membrane of the eyes) as a result of parasite infection. Preventative treatment for worms is easy. Your veterinarian can recommend a worming schedule that is best for your goats and the area you live. Young kids and adults should be grazed on separate pastures and newly purchased animals should be treated for parasites and quarantined from the herd for at least two weeks.
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GET TO KNOW | Purina^® Goat Chow^® Goat Mineral

To best meet your goat's nutritional needs and to avoid potential toxicities, always use a goat-specific mineral supplement. Purina^® Goat Mineral is a uniquely formulated mineral supplement that provides a concentrated source of salt, trace minerals, and vitamins. It is rich in nutrients that are essential for proper development and the well-being of goats of all ages and breeds. Additionally, giving your goat Purina^® Goat Mineral stimulates water intake and helps minimize the risk of urinary calculi.

Copper and zinc—for supple skin and a healthy coat

Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin D—for strong bone and hoof development and excellent milk production

Potassium, sodium, sulfur, iron, cobalt, iodine and manganese—for overall good health

Vitamin E and selenium—for strong muscle development and healthy immune system maintenance

Coarse particle—for less waste and dust

Remember that feed consumption will vary with life stage, environment and activity. Also, be sure adequate amounts of fresh, clean water are always available. This product is available regionally, so please check with your local Purina dealer for ordering details.

Note: This product contains copper and should not be fed to sheep. *with added vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients

A library of past issues of Better Animal E—zines and an introductory video is maintained and can be accessed by clicking here.

Please do not reply to this email. Contact Us

Better Animals^®
10715 Kahlmeyer Dr.
St. Louis, MO 63132

Beyond chickens and bees: Urban farmers try goats

2011-12-02T02:36:00.001-08:00

Beyond chickens and bees: Urban farmers try goats
USA Today
Successful efforts to legalize chickens in cities such as Chicago and New York paved the way, with ducks and bees gaining ground in many places too. But goats? It's been two hooves forward, one hoof back as the idea has spread to more cities. ...
See all stories on this topic »

Tori Spelling and Juliet (Registered African Pygmy Doe Kid) Purchased From Amber Waves

2011-11-26T07:23:00.001-08:00

http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2011/03/photos-video-hubby-gets-tori-spelling-s-goat-literally

Amber Waves Will Be Open For Visitors - November 25-27, 2011 - Regular Hours

2011-11-23T05:48:00.000-08:00

http://amber-waves.genbook.com

Click the above link to book an appointment to visit Amber Waves Pygmy Goats.

Welcome Brian Austin Green and Megan Fox as one of our newest pygmy goat customers at Amber Waves Pygmy Goats.

2011-11-23T05:44:00.000-08:00

Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green
Photo: Parade.com

Welcome Brian Austin Green and Megan Fox as one of our newest pygmy goat customers at Amber Waves Pygmy Goats.

Megan Denise Fox (born May 16, 1986) is an American actress and model. She began her acting career in 2001 with several minor television and film roles, and played a regular role on Hope & Faith. In 2004, she launched her film career with a role in Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen. In 2007, she was cast as Mikaela Banes, the love interest of Shia LaBeouf's character, in the blockbuster film Transformers, which became her breakout role. Fox reprised her role in the 2009 sequel, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. Later in 2009, she starred as the titular lead character in the film Jennifer's Body.

Fox is considered a sex symbol and frequently appears on men's magazine "Hot" lists, including Maxim and FHM

Brian Austin Green (born July 15, 1973) is an American actor, best known for his portrayal of David Silver on the television series Beverly Hills, 90210, a role he played from 1990 to 2000.[1] Green also starred in the sitcom Freddie and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles.[1][2] Since 2009, he has appeared in a recurring role on Smallville as Metallo.[3] Green is married to actress Megan Fox.

Proverbial Pygmies So Undercover Arrives Home

2011-11-20T13:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome one of our New Junior Buck Kids

Proverbial Pygmies So UnderCover
DOB: 3/8/11

Proverbial So Under Cover
DOB: 3/8/11

For Sale Breeding Doe - Possibly Bred

2011-11-20T09:38:00.000-08:00

Desert Willow Allison


Desert Willow Allison

Desert Willow Allison

DOB: 3/16/07 - Grey/Brown Agouti
Sire: PGCH Proverbial Pygmies Illusion
Dam: PGCH Sierra's Rainbow Alice Anne+
Currently in with Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit for breeding.

Picture above Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit

Contact: debbie@amberwaves.info

2 Weaned Pygmy Doe Kids For Sale! Can hold till Xmas!

2011-11-20T09:16:00.000-08:00

Can hold till Christmas with payment

Two - Weaned Doe Kids Available
Listed 11/20/11

Jamba's Pygmies Aurora DOB: 3/21/11 - Grey Agouti Doe (Female)
Sire: Jamba's Pygmies Ace of Cakes
Dam: Pygmy Goats by T.J. Alyssa
Beautiful doe kid, excellent show potential
Ready to Go now.

Jamba's Pygmies Little Miss
DOB: 3/19/11 - Grey Agouti Doe Kid (Female)
Sire: PGCH MD Pygmy's Johnny Cash
Dam: Jamba's Pygmies Steeling Cinderella
Beautiful doe kid, excellent show potential
Ready to Go now.

Contact us for more information Debbie@amberwaves.info Ship nationwide and internationally

For Sale - Rare Opportunity To Purchase a Weaned Pygmy Doe Kid (SOLD TO CONNETICUT)

2011-11-11T04:31:00.000-08:00

Due to a customers problems with relocation this doe kid is for sale. It is very rare for us to have a weaned doe kid for sale. She is weaned, registered, had her first shots, worming, dehorned and cocci treatment and is ready to go. This is her baby picture will try and get current pictures this weekend.
Both of her parents are brown agouti so she has the genetics to produce brown agouti.

Picture taken less than 24 hours of age.

Amber Waves Marley and Me Kids 10/26/11

2011-11-02T05:21:00.000-07:00

Amber Waves Cool Hand Luke


Amber Waves Dirty Harry

Both babies sold advance deposit.
Sire: Desert Suns A Major Affair
Dam: Amber Waves Marley and Me

Amber Waves new full color pygmy goat brochure - now available for viewing in a flip book.

2011-10-12T05:56:00.000-07:00

http://issuu.com/aes01/docs/amber_waves_pygmy_goats/1

Second doe for Sale (SOLD)

2011-10-12T05:54:00.000-07:00

Animal Haven Help Me Rhonda
Grey Agouti doe kid with white on LF Front Foot
DOB: 5/7/11
Sire: White Hills Zane Grey
Dam; Animal Haven Califonria Girl
More Information: Click Here
Comments: Nice doe I had her shipped down from Washington State. Breeder is an
NPGA judge.
Price: $495.00

Subject to Prior Sale
Ship nationwide and internationally
We accept all major credit cards, PayPal, Checks and Cash

Offering 2 Does for Sale First Time - First doe (SOLD)

2011-10-12T05:51:00.001-07:00

Amber Waves The Last Kiss
Caramel Doe - DOB: 2/6/08
Sire: Champion Desert Willow The Majestic
Dam: Critter Craze Ranch Flower
More Information - Click Here
Comments: Keeping a daughter and her sister.
Proven Brooddoe has been exposed to a buck.
Price: $500.00

More Information E-mail: debbie@amberwaves.info
Subject to prior sale

Ship Nationwide and Internationally
We accept major credit cards, PayPal, and Checks

Bring Out Your Chickens and Mini Goats (San Diego, CA)

2011-10-07T03:48:00.001-07:00

Bring Out Your Chickens and Mini Goats
Voice of San Diego
San Diego city planners have proposed rule changes that would make it easier to keep backyard chickens and for residents to become urban farmers. Posted: Tuesday, October 4, 2011 6:50 pm | Updated: 8:48 pm, Tue Oct 4, 2011. by Adrian Florido San Diego ...
See all stories on this topic »

Hand Painted and Crafted Original Art, Goat and Livestock Art, Goat ...

2011-10-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hand Painted and Crafted Original Art, Goat and Livestock Art, Goat ...
Hand Painted and Crafted Original Artwork... goat gifts, goat art, Pygmy goats, Dairy goats, all goats...horses, cows, livestock, cat and dog artwork. Portraits of a ...
www.phils-4-windsartfarm.com/2011_10_01_archive.html

Vet Ultra-Sounded 10/4/11

2011-10-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

Pregnant

Caliche Corral Hot Crystal
Twilight Ranch Jewels By Tiffany
Bowler Farms Luchia
Little Eden's Sweet Ghirardelli
Picture Perfect All American Girl
Amber Waves Marley and Me
Dessert Willow Allison

Everything you need to get ready for fall kidding is here at Hoegger Supply, and up to 50% off!

2011-10-04T05:28:00.000-07:00

Everything you need to get ready for fall kidding is here at Hoegger Supply, and up to 50% off!

From vaccines to disbudding, Hoegger has all the items you need to be ready for those early kids you may have on their way. It's also the perfect time to check your list and plan ahead for the kids that will drop in late winter and early spring. Get your supplies now so you won't need expedited shipping when you get busy with the new additions to the farm! Click here to check out our entire line of kidding products! Click to share this with your Facebook friends.

Does Due To Kid At Amber Waves (October - December 2011)

2011-09-30T04:51:00.000-07:00

Now accepting deposits

Amber Waves The Last Kiss (Caramel)
bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair (Caramel)
Desert Willow Allison (Brown Agouti)
bred to Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit (Silver Agouti)
Desert Willow She's Got finesse II
(Brown Agouti Bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair (Brown Agouti)
Bowler Farms Kisseybaby
(Black Agouti) Bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair (Caramel)
Bowler Farms Luchia
(Grey Agouti) Bred to B/C Pygmies Barney)
Amber Waves Marley and Me
(Agouti) bred to Desert Suns A Major Affair (Caramel

For the most current up-to-date news visit our new Pygmy Blog Click Here
Pygmy Goat Interest Form Click Here
Pygmy Goat Reservation Form Click Here

Reference Sires

B/C Pygmies Barney

Desert Suns A Major Affair (Champion)

Proverbial Pygmies Pursuit (Champion)

Low Hay Acres, High Hay Prices

2011-09-30T04:41:00.000-07:00

For your information:

Hold on to your hats. The most recent USDA estimate for hay acreage to be harvested in the U.S. during 2011 has likely set the stage for a wild, upward ride in hay prices for the rest of the year.

U.S. growers plan to harvest 57.6 million all-hay acres in 2011, down 4% from 2010, according to the June 30 Acreage report. Harvested acres are expected to be below or equal to last year's figures for most states in the Corn Belt, Great Plains, Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions, the ag department adds. Record-low harvested acreages are expected in Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Maine, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. For alfalfa and alfalfa mixtures, USDA expects a harvested area of 19.3 million acres in 2011, down 3% from that of last year.

Throughout spring, most market watchers had been predicting a large drop in hay acres and that growers would switch to corn, wheat and other crops to capitalize on projected high commodity prices. In its March 31 Prospective Plantings report, USDA had forecast all-hay production at 59 million acres.

"That would have been a drop of about 1% from 2010," says University of Wisconsin Extension educator Ken Barnett, who compiles the Weekly Hay Market Demand and Price Report for the Upper Midwest. "Given all the reports we were hearing and reading through the winter about farmers taking land out of hay to plant corn and other crops, I don't think many people really believed that number."

Even so, the size of the spread between the March and June acreage numbers surprised many analysts. "Shocking is the only word I can think of to describe it," says Matt Diersen, ag economist at South Dakota State University Extension. "It's a big, big drop."

That virtually ensures dramatically lower U.S. hay production overall. Diersen points out that, if this year's yields meet the 10-year average of 2.43 tons/acre, national all-hay production would total 140 million tons, a 7-million-ton drop from production in 2010 and the lowest production since 1988.

A relatively low inventory of hay coming out of the winter promises to tighten supplies even more. Hay stocks on May 1 of this year totaled 22 million tons. "That's not crazy tight like it was in 2007 when May 1 stocks were under 15 million tons," he says. "But when you couple it with the lower production, it will put a lot of pressure on the supply."

At the same time, demand is likely to be stronger than normal in some areas of the country. Severe droughts in Texas, Oklahoma and other parts of the Southern Plains have burned up pastures, forcing livestock producers to feed hay much earlier in the year than normal. "It's really going to put a stress on supply throughout the marketing year, which will only push prices higher," says Diersen.

U.S. hay prices as of late May were already at an all-time high, Diersen adds. "It's similar to 2008, when hay prices were high at the start of the marketing year, then stayed high for the rest of the summer."

His bottom line on the Acreage report: "It's good news for someone with hay to sell. It's very bad news for anybody on the buyer's side."

by Rick Mooney, Editor, eHay

Keeping Goats Cool

2011-09-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

Source: Dr.Mike@feeddealer.com

Summer might be coming to a close on the calendar, but that doesn't mean Mother Nature is letting up on the heat. Things like jumping in the water and spending time in the cooler indoors are ways that we help beat the heat, but don't forget to help your goats do the same. The warm weather can be tough on animals, sometimes causing them to overheat, which can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, or even death. Following these tips will help them enjoy the warmer temperatures as much as you do.

Fresh, cool air: Make cross-ventilation a priority, especially in the summer. One thing to look out for, in particular, is ammonia. Ammonia builds up more quickly in the summer heat, especially low to the ground where goats sleep. Kneel down in your goat shed, and if you can smell ammonia from eight inches above the floor, your shed needs a thorough cleaning. Keep as many doors and windows open as possible to keep fresh air moving through the building.

H20: Clean, cool water should be available at all times. Water is essential for temperature control, waste excretion, electrolyte balance, digestion and more. Keep water troughs clean by changing drinking water several times a day, and put water containers in the shade to avoid sun-stimulated algae growth. In extreme heat, or if you will be away for long periods, add ice blocks to your goats' water. One way to increase the water intake is by offering free-choice salt. This will help dilute the urine and avoid urinary calculi, which can be more common in hot weather if goats do not drink enough. A bout of diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration in the heat of summer. Keep cool, clean water available at all times. Persistent diarrhea in young kids can lead to death if left untreated. If symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian.

Play: Goats love to play and are always looking for something to do. Make sure they have a shaded area to have their fun during the summer months.

Hygiene: Dirty shed and bedding can lead to skin sores, mastitis, respiratory ailments, foot problems, and more that escalate in the summer heat, so keep it clean. You may also want to shear long-haired goats before the summer heat sets in.

Transportation: Minimize transport time especially in late gestation as much as possible, but if you must, provide proper ventilation, make plenty of stops and make time to rest, water, and feed them along the way. Try to travel late at night or early in the morning to avoid the worst heat of the day.

Summer babies: Try to avoid summer births in hot climates where temperatures are often above 90 degrees during summer and fall. Kids tend not to grow as fast under such circumstances, and high temperatures combined with drought conditions cause stress.
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Our new mailbox wrap.

2011-09-21T03:17:00.000-07:00

Veterinarians Who Treat Goats

2011-09-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

Alabama (8)

Arizona (1)

Agassiz Animal Clinic (Flagstaff)

California (27)

Colorado (7)

Connecticut (4)

Delaware (1)

Forrest Avenue Animal Hospital (Dover)

Florida (3)

Georgia (6)

Illinois (2)

Indiana (5)

Iowa (3)

Kansas (1)

Brandon Fraser

Kentucky (4)

Maine (4)

Maryland (2)

Massachusetts (2)

Michigan (1)

Molly Angel, DVM - small ruminants (including deer)

Minnesota (3)

Mississippi (1)

Rita Morris

Missouri (2)

Montana (2)

New Hampshire (1)

Pembroke Animal Hospital (Pembroke)

New Mexico (1)

BARBARA S MERICKEL DVM (Algodones)

New York (1)

Annette Gonzalez DVM

North Carolina (4)

North Dakota (1)

Leslie Marie Henderson Mitchell

Ohio (3)

Oregon (1)

Anne Macnab

Pennsylvania (3)

South Carolina (1)

Dr. Martin Honea Path Animal Hospital (Honea Path)

Tennessee (4)

Vermont (1)

Sarah Coburn

Virginia (2)

Washington (1)

The Family Pet

West Virginia (1)

Dr. Brown Waynbe

Wisconsin (2)

Listings

BOTTLE FEEDING

2011-09-17T05:23:00.000-07:00

By LORRIE BLACKBURN, D.V.M.

Pygmy does are usually excellent mothers, and often the mother of quadruplets will try, and succeed, in raising all four babies herself. Occasions do arise, however, when the newborn kids must be bottle-fed entirely, or at least supplemented.

If you have any idea that a kid will need supplementing, or bottle-feeding, begin its bottle training as soon as possible. Once kids have learned to nurse, they greatly resent having a rubber nipple passed off as the real thing. But if they learn early that rubber nipples come filled with delicious milk, they will

readily learn to alternate between mother and her substitute. Switching a kid from mother to a bottle after the first day or two of life can be difficult and stressful, and can be so easily avoided.

The best formula to feed baby goats is goats milk. Fresh milked from mother or your other pygmy does is the ideal, since pygmy milk is higher in butterfat than other dairy goats. You might find someone in your area who is milking their dairy goats and is willing to sell their excess fresh milk. (Fresh goats milk will keep for about one week in the refrigerator, but it can also be fresh frozen and will keep for months in the freezer.) Some supermarkets and health food stores will carry pasteurized goats milk, and many will also carry evaporated goats milk. The evaporated milk must be diluted half with water before feeding to a kid. If you strike out completely on goats milk, then get a lamb's milk replacer - not cow's milk or cow's milk replacer.

Newborn pygmy kids will drink very well from a well-worn black lamb's nipple on a small coke bottle. Some people prefer to use a regular baby bottle with a preemie nipple, but I have found that saving the old, almost worn out, nipples from previous bottle babies allows the lamb's nipple to be as soft as the preemie nipples, and the kids don't have the problem of butting up against the plastic rings of the baby bottle. Heat the milk to approximately 102 degrees. The milk should be warmer than you would feed to a human baby, but not hot enough to burn your wrist when testing it.

Most kids need only be fed during daytime hours. Nighttime feedings are only necessary for kids in less than perfect health. Approximate feeding times and amounts are indicated in the following chart:

Age	Number of Feedings	Amount	Approx. times
0- 2 weeks	4	2- 3 ounces	8, 12, 4, 8
2- 4 weeks	3	5- 6 ounces	8, 2, 8
4 - 6 weeks	2	10 ounces	8, 8
6 - 8 weeks	1 - 2	Dilute with water and decrease the amount

The biggest mistake in bottle feeding goats is overfeeding. Once a kid has learned to drink from a bottle, he will drink until he bursts. The above amounts are more than enough for a healthy kid. By decreasing the amounts and frequency as indicated, the kid will learn more readily to eat the hays and grains that will be his life's food. You should be offering your kid hay and clean water within the first week of life. (Watch your other kids out with their mother. They begin tasting the hay and grain with her at just a couple of days of age.) Start with small amounts changed daily. As the kids start eating more, increase the amount fed so there is always a little bit left when the next feeding is due.

Best of Memo 1976-1984

Ensure your pygmy goats are healthy by only purchasing goats from reputable breeders

2011-09-17T05:21:00.000-07:00

So you have decided to bring adorable, friendly pygmy goats into your family, but do you know the best place to purchase them? By far the most important element to consider when purchasing pygmy goats is their health. You don’t want to bring unhealthy goats into your home because not only will there inevitability be higher costs in keeping them alive, unhealthy goats can infect any healthy goats you may have, have an increased risk of dying prematurely, and many diseases that plague them don’t have cures. Ultimately, unhealthy goats will bring you unnecessary emotional and financial stress and will require a lot more work, but how can you be sure you are receiving a healthy pygmy goat? You must resolve to purchase your goats from a reputable breeder like Amber Waves.

What does a reputable breeder offer consumers? Testing of their herds for devastating diseases such as Caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE), Caseous Lymphadenitis (CL), and Johne's Disease. When you receive pygmy goats from a herd that has been tested for these diseases, you are exponentially increasing your chances for having healthy, happy goats over their lifetimes.

A retroviral infection of goats which may lead to chronic disease of the joints, and on rare occasions, encephalitis in goat kids less than six months of age, Caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE), can cause inflammation and be extremely painful for a goat who is suffering with it. However, some goats that have CAE never show any symptoms, but can still pass CAE onto other goats in its herd. This means that purchasing from a breeder who tests for CAE is essential.

Caseous Lymphadenitis (CL), or “cheesy gland” as it is referred to in some parts of the world, is another devastating, highly contagious disease that can be passed to other goats and even humans should one of the goats you purchase have it. CL most often presents itself as an external abscess (or lump); however, it can also manifest inside the body as well, and thus, you may not be able to tell if your goat(s) have this disease. Again, you must purchase pygmy goats from a breeder who tests for CL to ensure you don’t bring this disease into your home.

Finally, Johne's Disease, whose common symptoms are diarrhea and rapid weight loss, is a bacterial infection of the intestinal tract caused by Mycobacterium paratuberculosis. This contagious disease ravages pygmy goats, is quite painful for the goats affected, and spreads quickly through herds. Yet again, any breeder you purchase pygmy goats from should be testing for Johne's Disease so you won’t have to deal with this terrible disease yourself.

Purchasing pygmy goats from a reputable breeder can be the difference between having healthy, long-lived goats, and unhealthy, miserable goats. Amber Waves, a leader in the pygmy goat industry for over 28 years, tests its pygmy goat herd for CAE, CL, and Johne's Disease. Amber Waves is known for producing high-quality pygmy goats suitable for breeding, showing, and pet purposes, and regularly ships goats both nationally and internationally. Featured on programs such as the Tori and Dean Show on the Oxygen Network, the African pygmy goats of Amber Waves come to you dehorned (unless you request horned), wormed, registered, and given their first shots. Additionally, Amber Waves provides its customers with lifetime support for each and every pygmy goat purchased, which includes auto reminders to let customers know when their animals are due for worming and shots. Visit the Amber Waves website, www.amberwavespygmygoats.com, for more information and to purchase healthy pygmy goats from a reputable breeder who with be with you every step of the way while raising your pygmy goats.

Here are some questions and answers about Pygmy Goats and Goats in General

2011-09-17T05:16:00.000-07:00

It is always better to know some pygmy goat facts, before learning some pygmy goat info related to their care. Pygmy goats have originated in Africa and made their way as pets in American homes during the 1950's. Pygmy goats as pets for children are very popular today. there are two pygmy goat breeds that are registered as dwarf breeds. These include the Nigerian Dwarf and the African pygmy goat.

The African pygmy goat is the common member of petting zoos. They are about 20 to 25 inches tall and weigh about 50 to 60 pounds. Their milk contains about 6% more butterfat than any other goat milk. The Nigerian dwarf goat is only 17 to 20 inches tall and weighs around 75 pounds. They can produce one quart milk every day and are happy in 1/3rd of the living space that is basically required for any other full size goat breed.

The pygmy goats have a herd mentality and what more can you expect out of an IQ of just 60? If you bring home just one goat, it will become sad and lonely, bleat constantly and try to run away at all times. So, it is always better you bring home a pair, for their peace of mind as well as yours. They are very easy to care for, playful and lovable pets.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pygmy Goats
How Long do Pygmy Goats Live?		Approximately 8 to 12 years. Goats which are well cared for live past 15
How tall do pygmy goats get?		DOES: 16-22 3/8" at the withers. Bucks 16-23 5/8" at the withers
What do Pygmy goats weigh?		Females, called does, 51 to 75 lb and males, called bucks, weigh 60 to 86 lb.
What about Pygmy goat reproduction?		Pygmy goats are precocious and polyestrous breeders; bearing one to four young every nine to twelve months after a five month gestation period. Does are usually bred for the first time at about twelve to eighteen months, although they may conceive as early as two months if care is not taken to separate them early from bucklings. Newborn kids will nurse almost immediately, begin eating grain and roughage within a week, and are weaned by three months of age. Polyestrous sexual behavior means that they experience heat and can be freshened year-round. If milking is a priority, a continuous supply of milk can be obtained by breeding two or more pygmy does alternately. Though some full-size dairy breeds are also noted for polyestrous sexual behavior.
Where did pygmy goats come from?		Pygmy goats originated in the Cameroon Valley of West Africa. They were imported into the United States from European zoos in the 1950s for use in zoos as well as research animals. They were eventually acquired by private breeders and quickly gained popularity as pets and exhibition animals due to their good-natured personalities, friendliness and hardy constitution. Today you can find them as house pets and at petting zoos.
What care and housing do pygmy goats need?		Pygmy goats are adaptable to most climates. Their primary diet consists of greens and grains. They enjoy having items to jump on and may be able to leap onto small vehicles. They are also in need of a shed and open area accessible at all times. They also need a companion that doesn't necessarily have to be its own species. They are prey animals and should therefore be sheltered in a predator-proof area -especially at night. Goats require fresh water at all times or they won't drink it. Pygmy goats are often affectionate if they are treated with respect. They can also be trained, though it requires quite a bit of work.
What general information is available on pygmy goats.		Average lifespan 10-15 years Normal body temperature 102-104°f (39.1 - 40°c) Normal pulse rate 70-95 beats per minute (faster for kids) Normal respiration rate 20-24 per minute Rumen movement 1-1.5 per minute Gestation period 145-157 days (average 150 days) Heat (oestrus)cycle 18-24 days (average 21 days) Length of heat 12-48 hours (average 1 day) Weaning age (recommended) 6 - 12 weeks Males sexually mature 10-12 weeks Females onset of heat 7-12 months* Dehorning (by veterinary surgeon) By 7 days Castration; Using elastrator ring 7 days Surgical method (by vet) No age limit
When do you wean the young?		Ideally between around 8 weeks... Some breeders wean as young as 4 weeks.
Can they Kid Tokay?		A goat giving birth is called "kidding". Pygmies are more prone to problems than other goat breeds, especially first time moms. Make sure someone is there when she goes into labor and keep a close eye on her. Be ready to call the vet if necessary.
How long before they give birth from the time of breeding?		145 - 155 days (approx. 5 months)
How old do you breed them?		Some breeders will say 1 year, 14 months is even better so that mom is more mature and less likely to experience kidding problems. In any case it is a good idea if you plan to breed them to do it before they turn 2 years of age.
Odor /Cleanliness		Because their diet contains no meat, goat “droppings” do not have the unpleasant odor that other pets’ manure has. Goat droppings are small pellets that can easily be raked or swept and disposed of or used as fertilizer for your garden or flower box. Pygmy goats prefer to be clean and dry and will seek out those places to rest; they do not like rain and will run for shelter when the first drops fall. Although uncastrated males can have an unpleasant smell about them, neutered males (wethers) and females have no such odor at all. A single pygmy goat kept as a pet has none of the objectionable odors typically associated with livestock simply because they are so small and are not kept in a barnyard environment with large numbers of other animals.
Do they have heat cycles or do they just get pregnant at any time?		They have heat cycles approximately every 3 weeks (will vary). Some goat breeds only have heat cycles during certain seasons, but pygmies will have heat cycles every few weeks, year round.
After they have babies how long before they can breed again at minimum?		They can and will breed within days or weeks. I personally feel that it's better to give them some time off and only breed them once per year, again to avoid problems for the doe and kids. Pygmies can have two kidding's a year.
How soon are pygmy bucks fertile?		Pygmy buckling’s can be fertile as early as 8 weeks and some have impregnated their mothers at this young age. It's important to wether them before this age if they are not going to be used as breeders. If they are going to be breeders, they need to be separated from mom and all other does at 8 weeks except for supervised feedings.
When Do Does Start to Come Into Heat?		Doeling s usually have their first heat around 5 months of age, but there have been reports of 2 month olds getting pregnant.
Signs Your doe Is in Heat		Signs of estrus are numerous, some obvious, some more discreet. The doe usually flags her tail side-to-side when around a buck, presumably to send attractive pheromones from her reproductive tract into the environment that a buck finds attractive. Her vulva may be more pink than normal, appear swollen, and have some clear or white-colored discharge with the consistency of egg white. This discharge usually starts clear and becomes whiter as the heat progresses. Others signs include more frequent urination and restless behavior. She may also talk more than usual, sometimes bleating very loudly at the edge of the fence line nearest the buck. Decreased appetite and milk production are also reported. The doe is in a standing heat when she stands willingly and lets a buck mount. Standing heat usually lasts from 1-24 hours. If a buck is not present, does often mount their herd mates or stand for other does to mount them.
Personality		Pygmy Goats are friendly when they want to be and always comical if you have a good sense of humor. Sometimes they will do things that you don't necessarily think is cute but it is rather difficult to train them to stop doing goat things, But it is not impossible, because after all a goat does have an I.Q. of 60. By goat things I mean, like jumping on your car, pulling your clothes off your clothes line, or eating your favorite rose bush. Of course they do these things only because they are curious, not because they don't like you. You can however; goat-proof your yard and everyone will be happy. All in all goats do make really nice pets, and I know that you would enjoy having some. I say some because goats are herd animals and are not happy unless they have a friend. Does not necessarily have to be another goat but they do prefer them.
Housing		A sturdy, well ventilated, draft-free barn is a must for your pygmy goat. They really hate to sleep outside in the cold months and they actually panic if it rains on them. Without these qualities in your barn there is a chance that your animal will become ill.
Fencing		Standard woven livestock fencing--47 inches high with openings smaller on the bottom (4"x6") and larger on top (6"x6"). If you have babies younger than 3 months, you may have to keep a cardboard collar on them until they grow too large to squeeze through the holes. If you have bucks, you may need to run a strand of hot wire about 12" off the ground to keep them from tearing down the fence or use heavy duty cattle panels (this is what I use).
Can I Get Only One Pygmy?		Goats are herd animals and are happiest with other goats. A minimum number is two goats.
Can I Keep A Buck As A Pet		An unneutered male is a smelly animal. In order to make themselves attractive to females, they urinate on themselves. They also grow long hair and exhibit 'odd' behavior--blubbering, snorting. Etc. This is normal for a buck. Bucks do not make good pets. Often, bucks that are treated as a pet become aggressive as adults. If you need a buck for breeding purposes, provide a separate pen and a wether as a companion and do not treat it as a pet! Neutered males, called wethers, however, make wonderful pets. They will look very similar to a doe, won't smell and can have wonderful temperaments.
Can Bucks and Does Live Together?		Bucks should be kept in a separate pen. If housed together with does, the buck will breed the does anytime they come into heat. This can result in does being bred too early (you wouldn't breed your 12 year old daughter just because she is 'old enough', would you?) or too frequently (I recommend breeding does no more than once a year.
Do Pygmy Goats Get Along with Other Animals?		Pygmy goats have a good-natured personality and get along well with other livestock. I have mine in with a horse, chickens and rabbits and have had sheep with them. The key is the temperament of the other livestock. I have sold goats to people with one horse who want companions for their horse and don't want to care for another large animal.
How Expensive Are Pygmy goats to Keep?		Pygmy goats are inexpensive animals to keep, especially wethers or does not being freshened. I feed my non-breeding animals only 1/2 to one cup of feed per day and grass hay. Does that are nursing get 4 cups of feed a day and alfalfa mixed with their grass hay and growing kids get alfalfa in a creep feeder. They also have access to loose mineral salt and get selenium crumbles on their feed every day. Pygmy goats are very healthy animals for the most part and I have rarely had to take them to the vet.
Why does it seem that there are different types of Pygmy goats? Some are taller and have different heads than others I have seen.		Just as in any animal, let the buyer beware. I have seen many smaller goats sold as "pygmy" goats that are actually Pygora goats or some mixture of Pygmy and other goat breeds. Pygmy goats are a distinct breed of goat, and the only way to be sure that you are getting a true Pygmy goat is to buy registered goats from a reputable breeder. Also, within Pygmy goats, there are many different-looking goats, depending on the quality of breeding stock and how much effort the breeder is making to breed animals that look like the breed standard established by the National Pygmy Goat Association (NPGA).
Can A Pygmy goat Be Potty Trained?		Pygmy goats are a great, exotic animal. Though they're best kept in a wide roaming area, such as on an acreage or farm, pygmy goats are a great domesticated pet and a fun addition to any family. Females grow to around 60 pounds and males grow to around 80 pounds. They grow to an average of 23 inches. This makes it feasible for a pygmy goat to live in a home. Unfortunately, goat feces have a pungent aroma, and goats often drop feces where they stand. This cannot be avoided, but urination can be trained. Training should start with a new baby goat for the best circumstances. Read more: How to Potty Train a Pygmy Goat \| eHow.co.uk http://www.ehow.co.uk/how_5703986_potty-train-pygmy-goat.html#ixzz10Fjsg0ak
What are your county's regulations on livestock?		Pygmies are considered livestock. You can't necessarily stick one in your backyard. First check with your county's regulations office to see if you can legally own them.
Do pygmy goats play?		YES! Pygmies are absolutely the clowns of the barnyard. They will stand up on their hind legs and simultaneously come down and head butt each other. They talk to each other constantly. Provide them with benches to climb on or wooden cable spools and they will hop up and down on them. A bored goat is not a happy goat, so be sure to provide a stimulating environment. For us, pygmy goats make great pets. They can be loud, however, so be a good neighbor and communicate with the people around you. We went to our immediate neighbors and asked if they would object to our having goats, and they all gave us the green light. Since ours are the only ones on the block, so to speak, they're celebrities in their own right. Our neighbors bring them treats and little kids love to come to our very own petting zoo. Do your research and find out if pygmy goats would be the right pets for your family. It's a big commitment, so be sure your entire family is on board. I guarantee though, that at minimum, they will make you laugh.
What is C.A.E. and why is it important to buy from a tested herd?		Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE) is a virus that affects goats in multiple ways. Most often characterized by big knees, the virus also does irreparable damage to the lungs as well and affects the immune system leaving the goat defenseless against most common ailments. CAE is the bane of many goat producers and much emphasis is placed on raising "CAE free" goats.
What is Johne's disease and what causes it and why it is important to buy from a tested herd?		Johne's disease is a serious wasting disease of goats, which can lead to loss of production and death. The disease affects animals by causing thickening of the intestinal wall resulting in a reduction in the normal absorption of food. The disease is caused by a bacterium (Mycobacterium paratuberculosis) that lives mainly in animal intestines, but can also survive in the outside environment for several months. The disease is seen more often in dairy goats than meat or fibre goats, but all breeds may be infected if they come into contact with the bacterium. Goats acquire infection at an early age through eating contaminated pasture, or drinking contaminated milk or water. The signs of disease develop slowly and the disease is rarely seen in young animals.
Safety		Pygmy goats are not aggressive by nature but are very playful. Like other ruminant (multi-stomach) animals, they have lower teeth but none on top; even if they were to bite, which they do not, it would be nothing more than a slight pinch — nothing at all like a dog or a cat bite. There has not been a single documented case of anyone’s being killed or even seriously injured by a pygmy goat! When threatened, a pygmy is likely to stand on its hind feet, lower or cock its head to one side and stand its hair on end — or run and hide. Pygmy goats are not prime carriers of rabies or other diseases transmissible to humans or other animals. The few diseases or maladies that afflict pygmy goats, while rare, are usually limited to that particular animal or are “species specific” (confined only to goats)
What is C.L. and why should I buy from a tested herd		Caseous Lymphadenitis is a chronic bacterial infection that causes external and internal lumps in sheep and goats. It is caused by a bacteria, Corynebacterium Pseudotuberculosis, which enters the body through a wound in the skin causing an infection and a slow growing, firm abscess. This infection may also travel to the regional lymph nodes causing a localized abscess there. The disease is infectious and, under certain circumstances, can spread quickly through your herd. Not all abscesses are caused by this bacteria! In fact, relatively few abscesses are actually C.L. In order for the disease to be present, you must first have the bacteria in your herd or on your ranch. This usually occurs when an infected animal is brought into the herd. Secondly, there must be an entrance wound for the animal to get the bacteria into their systems. It is not necessarily true that an animal with no abscesses will not be carrying the bacteria, because the lesions can be on any part of the body including the internal organs. Usually the disease is diagnosed when several animals in the herd are noticed to have a lump or string of lumps in the area of the lymph nodes. Abscesses can be removed or carefully cleaned out and, if there is no lymph node involvement, may not return. A sample of the pus in the abscess or of the animal's blood can be sent to one of the laboratories, which specialize in diagnosing this type of disease, for analysis. Pus from draining abscesses contains very large numbers of bacteria and the organism can survive for long periods (months) in the environment. This disease is transmittable (although cases are rare) to humans! So if you suspect C.L., let your veterinarian be the one to handle the abscess.
Noise		Pygmy goats normally are not noisy animals; they may “baaa” once in a while when they see someone, but it’s a pleasant, “down home” sound. They won’ t keep your neighbors awake like a barking dog or a yowling tomcat. When darkness falls, pygmy goats go to their houses and quietly chew their cud or go to sleep. On dreary or rainy days, they prefer to stay in their houses and relax and chew their cud; and on bright, sunny days, they like to lie outside and sun bathe. Pygmies are very peaceful animals and do well in either residential or agricultural surroundings.
Territory		Pygmy goats are creatures of routine. Once they learn their “territory”, they normally are content to stay within it and do not tend to run off and annoy the neighbors. A fenced backyard is sufficient as long as the fence meets the ground so the goat cannot slip under it to sample the neighbor’s flowers. Pygmies are not great fence jumpers but do like to jump on top of doghouses or other structures to experience the “view from the top”. Be sure no such structures are next to the fence, as your goat may jump down from the structure on the wrong side of the fence and not be able to get back. Car hoods are tempting as well; so if you don’t want little hoof tracks on your shiny new car, park it somewhere else!
Space Requirements		A single pygmy goat kept as a pet needs relatively little space. A nice backyard is more than sufficient for a little goat. Goats are browsers rather than grazers and do not decimate your lawn; they prefer to pick the tasty clover, dandelions or broadleaf weeds and let the nice green grass grow. A common saying among goat breeders is that a goat would starve to death on a golf course — because there are no weeds to eat! If you have a thorny patch to clean up, a pygmy goat will do the work of that expensive weed killer for you. NOTE: Should you decide to invest in more than one pygmy goat, the space requirements are still very reasonable. An acre of ground can easily accommodate up to a dozen or more pygmies without fear of overgrazing. Unlike sheep, goats eat the tops off the weeds and grasses rather than pulling them up by the roots; thus, a goat pasture normally has an aesthetically pleasing, “manicured” appearance.
Residential Zoning		Many residential areas that have zoning restrictions on agricultural animals will allow a pygmy goat to be kept as a pet as long as it can be shown that the goat is not being kept for agricultural purposes. In other words, the goat is not being used for meat, milk production, fiber (wool) or commercial breeding. A pygmy goat, therefore, would meet the “pet” requirement; if you choose a male, however, we recommend neutering only because the male smell may be objectionable to your neighbors. And of course if your little goat is neutered, there can be no doubt he’s not being used for breeding.
Why do you want to get goats?		This is the first question we ask people who want to buy goats from us, and this is the most important thing to ask yourself before you get your goats. The answer to this question will help you decide which type of goat that would be suit your needs and which sex would be best for you. First, you need to know that goats are not lawnmowers with legs. Although a goat's digestive system is similar to that of other ruminants, such as cattle and sheep, who are "grazers" and eat grass, goats are more related to deer, who are "browsers". As browsers, goats are designed to eat, and prefer, brush and trees more than grass. Though goats will eat grass, if you are considering getting goats to be lawnmowers, you are going to be sorely disappointed, because they will eat your trees and roses before they will work on the lawn. Goats could be used to help reclaim grasslands that have been overgrown with brush. Our land was overrun with brambles, wild roses, honeysuckle and 100s of small pine tree when we moved here; these are all gone now. If you want to clear brushy land, a goat will be happy to help you with this project; if you want a lawnmower with legs, get a sheep, though a sheep probably will not be as loving and as smart of a pet as a goat will be. We did start out getting goats to help us clear our brushy land as well as supply us with milk. The land is quite clear now: the brush is long gone, but we still have our goats. Now, we keep our goats as milkers and pets; they supply us with milk, love and affection. We did not get into goats for the sole purpose of making money and I would never advise someone to get into goats for the intended purpose of making a profit from them. If you are lucky, after years of work, you might break even. The best reason to get into goats is because you love them and you want them to be a part of your life.
What about horns?		You do not want a goat with horns. It is your decision to make, of course, but I'm talking to you now as a friend, let me say that, from personal experience, and knowing human nature, goats and goat behavior very well, please, do not get a goat with horns or you may regret it later. If your goats have kids, please be responsible and disbud them at the proper time. Yes, horns can be very beautiful, but they are also very dangerous, to you, your family and other goats. Even if the goat is a pet, and friendly, he/she can accidentally, or on purpose, seriously injure other goats, animals and humans. Goats learn to use their horns; they can, and will, use them on their herd mates (goat can, at times, be very violent with each other: it is their natural way). I know of a goat that gored her herd mate through the chest. A loving pet goat with horns could easily, even if accentually, injure a child- it's just not worth the risk to your children. I hate to see a pet goat end up in the auction barn because they hurt their owner, their owners children, or their fellow herd mate. Horns can, and do, get caught in fences, which can be very dangerous for the goat, causing her to strangle him or herself, or leaving him/her open to attack by predators. I knew a goat that got their horns caught is a low basketball net. Don't think that if your goat has horns, he can/will defend himself against dogs (no matter what someone told you). If a dog wants to kill a goat, and he can get through your fence, he will kill the goat, with or without horns. If you are going to show your goat, or the goat is a 4-H project, he/she must be disbudded. Read more about this subject here. If you get a goat with horns over 1/2 - 3/4 inch long... you are stuck with having horns. (read this link)
Goat Names and Terminology		You will often hear goats referred to by the following: "Buck or Billy" - a male goat. "Doe or Nanny" - a female goat. "Kid" - a young goat. "Wether" - a castrated male goat. "Herd" - a group of goats. "Wattles" - little round balls of fur on a goats' neck close to its chin. Not all goats have wattles.
Origins of the Goat		Goats were one of the first animals to be tamed by humans and were being herded 9,000 years ago. They are a member of the cattle family and are believed to be descended from the wild goat, bezoar.
Breeds of Goats		There are over 210 breeds of goats with an estimated 450 million goats in the world (2001). Of the 450 million goats in the world, it is estimated that approximately 6 to 8 % of them are in North America (2001). The majority of the world goat population can be found in the Mideast and Asia.
Eating Habits		Goats are ruminants or cud chewing animals that eat cracked or ground corn mixed with oats, hay and grass. Most breeders and producers prefer to limit the amount of corn in a goat's diet, preferring to feed specialized goat feed mixes with the majority of the diet being made up in a mixed, grassy alfalfa and other weeds, browse and shrubs known to be compatible with a goat's nutritional needs. Goats also have specific mineral and vitamin requirements that determine their overall health and production. These requirements often vary between breeds of goats and coloration of the goat. Most people believe that goats will eat almost anything and this is simply not true. The goat has very sensitive lips and their natural curiosity gives them a habit of "mouthing" and "smelling" for food that is clean and tasty. Goats will not eat soiled food (unless they are pushed to the point of starvation - often preferring to starve).
Teeth		Goats have a lower set of teeth which meet a hard pad in the upper jaw, and 24 molars on the top and bottom in the back of their mouths. Kids have 8 small, sharp teeth in their lower front jaw, and like children, when their baby teeth fall out they are replaced by permanent teeth. The age of a goat can often be closely determined by their teeth.
Eyes		The pupil in a goat's eye is rectangular in shape instead of being round like those of other animals. It is believed that goats have excellent night vision and will often browse at night. The actual color of the goat's eyes is varied with the most common color being yellow or brown. Blue coloration is a bit rarer and often a characteristic many breeders will try to achieve.
Produce		The main products associated with goats are milk, cheese, meat, mohair, and cashmere. Large dairy does produce 3,000 to 5,000 pounds of milk each year. (On a daily basis they produce 2 or 3 quarts of milk). With the emphasis on genetics, it should be noted that breeders and producers are beginning to surpass previous levels of milk and meat production with daily yields often exceeding one gallon of milk per day.
My bottle baby seems hungry all the time should I feed her more often then her normal schedule?		I prefer that bottle babies be put on a schedule especially if they are healthy. They need to start eating goat food not just the milk. Most bottle babies will eat until they pop once they get the hang of it. Too much milk will lead to diarrhea. And if the baby was on her mom, the mom would walk away when the feeding was over. So if you limit the amount, the baby will be more likely to eat hay and grain which she needs to do now. For now you can multiply the body weight by 4 and that is the max amount of milk to feed per day up to 20 to 24 ounces. She can divide that into as many feedings as she wants. So if the baby weighs 4#, then the most she should get per day is 16 ounces. I also find that my formula with the ½ cup cream per quart of goat’s milk gives them more calories and they are not as hungry.
How do I get started with goats?		Starting with goats should start with reading as much as you can about them. Talk to as many people as you can find that raise goats. Subscribe to a goat magazine. Get a place to keep the goats in before you go and buy them. READ, READ, READ! You never stop learning about these fascinating animals even if you have them for many years. Don't get discouraged - goat keeping has ups and downs just like everything else. Remember - there are no stupid questions!!
If we are milking our doe and she becomes pregnant again, do we need to stop milking at anytime during her gestation period?		Yes. A doe should have at least 2 months rest from milking before she freshens again. It takes a lot out of a doe to produce milk. She needs this time off so that her body can recover and concentrate on nourishing the kids forming inside of her.
How Often Should You Milk a Goat		Milking takes dedication. It is very important to milk twice daily at 12-hour intervals to maintain production. When milk is in the udder for 18 hours, the milk producing cells (alveoli) begin to shut down due to pressure. Once this production is lost in a lactation, it cannot be regained. As we all know, goats definitely like their routine, so regular milking times keep them happy.
Pygmy Goat Milk		A general rule of thumb is that an average Pygmy doe should give about ½ gallon per day at the peak of her lactation. A gallon of average fat milk weighs 8.6#, but Pygmy milk weighs 8 lbs. because fat is lighter.
Pygmy goat Milk		Mention goat milk and many people grab their throats and gargle, “AAAGH!” Pygmy goat milk is extremely sweet and delicious. Does willingly give up to 2/3 gallon per day at the peak of their lactations. I feel a doe worth her keep should give half-a-gallon per day at her peak, but a quart a day is nothing to sniff at – that’s nearly two gallons a week! The butterfat content of Pygmy milk in our herd ranges from 4.5% to over 11%. High butterfat content means the milk resists off-flavors due to dietary causes and helps maintain milk’s sweet, delicious flavor longer in cold storage. Raw Pygmy goat milk has maintained its freshness and flavor in our refrigerator for 14 days. Pygmy milk is higher in calcium, phosphorus, potassium and iron than milk from dairy breeds, and is lower in sodium.
Pygmy Goats As Companion Animals		Frequently, Pygmy goats are kept as companion animals for other species of livestock and are often found at horse breeding facilities and race tracks. An article in Spring, 1983, Memo documents an elephant at the Indianapolis Zoo suffering acute loneliness and subsequently comforted by the presence of a Pygmy wether.
What if the breeder I am buying my goat from does not test for CAE, CL or Johne's?		Some breeders do not test for these diseases and have no idea of their herd's status. These are serious life threatening diseases that may not show up for weeks or even years and are difficult (if not impossible) to cure once they do show up. Some of them are very contagious to other goats and can even stay in the environment for years waiting to infect the next goat. Some are contagious to humans. Many show herds test for these diseases and buying from one of these breeders may help insure you are buying a healthy pet. It will cost you less in the long run even if you have to pay more initially.
Pygmy Goats In Hot Climates		It is well documented that certain animals are best suited to certain environments. Pygmy goats evolved in the tropics, but they seem to adapt well to almost any environment.

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Study: Goats can develop 'accents'

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Jamba's Pygmies Aurora DOB: 3/21/11 - Grey Agouti Doe (Female)Sire: Jamba's Pygmies Ace of CakesDam: Pygmy Goats by T.J. AlyssaBeautiful doe kid, excellent show potentialReady to Go now.

Jamba's Pygmies Little MissDOB: 3/19/11 - Grey Agouti Doe Kid (Female)Sire: PGCH MD Pygmy's Johnny CashDam: Jamba's Pygmies Steeling CinderellaBeautiful doe kid, excellent show potentialReady to Go now.

Contact us for more information Debbie@amberwaves.info Ship nationwide and internationally

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Second doe for Sale (SOLD)

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Bring Out Your Chickens and Mini Goats (San Diego, CA)

Hand Painted and Crafted Original Art, Goat and Livestock Art, Goat ...

Vet Ultra-Sounded 10/4/11

Everything you need to get ready for fall kidding is here at Hoegger Supply, and up to 50% off!

Everything you need to get ready for fall kidding is here at Hoegger Supply, and up to 50% off!

Does Due To Kid At Amber Waves (October - December 2011)

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Two - Weaned Doe Kids Available
Listed 11/20/11

Jamba's Pygmies Aurora DOB: 3/21/11 - Grey Agouti Doe (Female)
Sire: Jamba's Pygmies Ace of Cakes
Dam: Pygmy Goats by T.J. Alyssa
Beautiful doe kid, excellent show potential
Ready to Go now.

Jamba's Pygmies Little Miss
DOB: 3/19/11 - Grey Agouti Doe Kid (Female)
Sire: PGCH MD Pygmy's Johnny Cash
Dam: Jamba's Pygmies Steeling Cinderella
Beautiful doe kid, excellent show potential
Ready to Go now.