To maintain the health of your goats, there are certain tasks that need to be undertaken on a regular basis:
- Foot trimming - this needs doing every 6 - 8 weeks. A surform plane and hoof paring clippers are the best tools for the job.
- Worming - minimum number of treatments and maintain safe grazing - consult your Vet for further advice.
- Vaccinating - goats should be vaccinated on an annual basis against a range of clostridial diseases
Daily tasks that can determine whether a goat is off colour or not, are as follows:
- Examine your goats in good light if you notice any swelling or injury.
- Droppings should be pellet form and firm, is the urine a normal colour.
- Has there been any change in milk yield ?
- Is there any change in the udder, milk texture, taste, colour or smell?
- Does the goat have bright eyes and a clean nose?
- Is the goat alert and inquisitive or restless?
- Has the goat lost its appetite or stopped drinking water?
- Is the goat's coat silky and shiny and free from irritation?
- Does the goat walk correctly and comfortably with equal weight on each foot?
Knowing your herd is essential when it comes to health and welfare. Some illnesses can have a gradual onset, so being able to spot the slightest change will help when combating illness.