2/24/08 

 

The goats get fed every evening, with a ration of approximately 3 parts Alfalfa, 1 part Black Oil Sunflower seeds, 1 part Purina Goat Chow, and 1 part Purina Show Goat. They also have 24/7 access to Orchard Grass Hay, and "Goat" Hay; with clover, weeds, and just a general pasture made into hay. They also get the occasional pine tree trimmings, fresh fruit, vegetables, and cereal as treats. 

 

I use the FAMACHA system, which is basically checking the eyelid color for anemia, in conjunction with with checking their stools for worms. Eventually I would like to start using an Herbal Wormer, either Hoeggers or Molly's of Fias Co Farm. I like the holistic approach but for now, I'm too young to have a job so it's been cheapest to use chemical wormers.

 

Everyday when I'm out with my goats, I observe them. I look at their hooves and their coats. They get a lot of excerise with their playground and the walks I take them on. I trim hooves when they need it, and usually catch problems quite early. As soon as my new stanchion arrives I'll be able to start milking the doe that I have in milk and clip the goats a little bit.