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Goats are hardy, highland animals capable of withstanding the bitter cold of the Himalayan Mountains. The harsher the conditions, the finer the fiber. They do require some shelter, especially after shearing in the late winter, however, goats are low management animals requiring minimal care. The feet require trimming when the normal wear and tear associated with their natural tendency to climb rocks does not occur. If goats are kept in feed lot conditions, feet need to be trimmed twice a year and in wet areas, care must be taken to guard against foot rot, a relative of athlete's foot that can cripple a goat. Goats require good fencing. Standard 12x12x6" field fence (12 gauge wire woven into 12"x6" rectangles, reducing to 12"x3" rectangles at the bottom) topped by 2 - 3 stands of barbed wire is an effective barrier. Electric fencing works well, if a source is available. Extant 3 or 4 wire fencing intended for cattle can be upgraded to a 7 strand fence with stays every 4' feet and is also a suitable goat fence. An electric outrigger 12" above the ground and 12" out from the fence is also an effective barrier. Keep in mind that goats will attempt to go under or through a fence before trying to jump. Unfortunately, their leaping abilities are deer-like when pressed. Jumpers are best culled as it is very difficult to contain them and they will invariably end up in your front yard munching on your favorite tree or shrub. Escaped goats should remember where home is and will likely return to shelter at dusk through the very hole out of which they escaped. A threatening rain storm will also send them running for shelter. Goats are naturally gregarious and are easily herded. Goats need to be carefully fed to avoid disease processes. They do best on grass hay with a protein supplement. Vitamins and minerals are a valuable addition to their diet. They love to eat weeds and will pass up lush clover and timothy hay for the blooming thistles. They should be bred once a year in the fall and normally have twins and triplets. The cashmere is shed in the late winter and can be harvested by shearing or by combing. Order Form Click here for the most up-to-date information available.
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