What You Need to Know About Pygmy Goat Care
There are many people today that have pygmy goats as pets though some also use them for the milk and meat. Either way, in order to make sure the animals are happy and healthy, it is important to know about pygmy goat care. If they have the proper treatment, they can live up to twelve years. Here are a few things that pygmy goat owners need to consider:
Housing:
The pygmy goat generally needs at least one companion. The shelter should allow 14-20 square feet per animal. It should have a solid floor that is regularly cleaned. Wood will rot more quickly than concrete. There should be shelving for the goats to jump on and bales of hay available for eating. Loose hay should be provided in an appropriately sized area for bedding.
Food and Water
They need to have a regular supply of hay plus access to a browsing area to eat greens. Make certain to keep any poisonous plants out of their fenced area. You may wish to discuss supplements with your vet. There are several fresh fruits and vegetables which you can incorporate into their diet. You also need to make certain they have a fresh supply of water at all times. If you live in an area where it freezes in the winter time, for good pygmy goat care you will want to make certain you can keep the water heated.
Other Health
Inside the shelter, you should also keep a salt lick mounted so the goats can easily reach it. Each year, you should take the animals in for their vaccinations. Talk to your veterinarian about what shots are required in your area. You will also need to keep their hooves trimmed. It is a good idea to get the animal comfortable with you handling the hooves during your early time with them. It will make the trimming sessions much easier.
Other Information
When you are selecting an area for your pygmy goats, you want to provide them with as varied a terrain as possible. Goats love to jump and the more you can fulfill this desire for them, the happier they will be.
Because they love to jump, it is critical that the area you have selected for your goats is properly fenced off. If the goats should get out of your yard, it is likely that they will make their way to the neighbors and begin eating their foliage. Make certain that the fences are high enough and do regular inspections to make sure they are in good repair.
Pygmy goats are a great addition to any household that has the room and interest in owning a couple or more of these playful critters. If you get one, make sure that you follow these simple pygmy goat care tips to keep your animal safe and well cared for. They will be a great companion for you and your family for many years. You are certain to appreciate the experience of owning pygmy goats.
Ever Thought What It Would Be Like To Raise Goats? Grab The Secrets To Raising And Caring For Goats The Easy Way. ” Never Before Revealed Information”