For the Love of Goats (Deborah Niemann)

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Hypocalcemia in goats, sometimes called milk fever, is one of the most misunderstood maladies in the goat world. This confusion stems from research done on cows, which does not apply to goats, but is still often referenced by many sources as if it does apply.

Today's guest, Dr. Robert Van Saun of Pennsylvania State University, once again reminds us that goats are not little cows. We are talking about the causes of hypocalcemia in goats and how that compares to cows, as well as how to prevent it and the treatment.

Dr. Van Saun talks about intravenous, sub-q, and oral treatment, and how quickly we should expect each one to work.

We also discuss the relationship between hypocalcemia and pregnancy toxemia and how a diet to prevent one can also help to prevent the other.

Full show notes here -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/hypocalcemia-in-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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It's probably safe to say that everyone has heard of fainting goats, which are more correctly called myotonic goats, and they don't actually faint.

Today we are separating fact from fiction in our conversation with Phil Sponenberg, DVM, Ph.D. of Virginia Tech who has been breeding myotonics for 30 years. He is also the technical advisor for The Livestock Conservancy, which has the myotonic goat on the "recovering" section of the Conservation Priority List, where the breed was originally considered critically endangered.

Dr. Sponenberg discusses the history of the myotonic goat and what exactly is a "fainting goat." Although you can milk any goat, this breed is primarily a meat goat.

If you've thought about goats but were scared off by the idea that they are loud and hard to keep fenced in, then a myotonic might be the breed for you. They are quieter than some breeds, and that same medical condition that causes them to faint also means that they can't jump or climb fences.

But if you are strictly considering the myotonic because you wanted to be entertained by fainting goats, then you might want to reconsider because "fainting" really doesn't happen that often.

Full show notes here -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/fainting-goats/

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Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Since parasite research in goats is always evolving, I was excited to see that the American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control has revised their dewormer usage chart. Although most of the dosages have stayed the same from previous chart, there are a lot of new recommendations that you'll find in the footnotes.

We are joined in this episode by one of the authors of the revision, Michael Pesato, DVM, DABVP, Assistant Clinical Professor of Food Animal Medicine and Surgery at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Pesato talks about what off-label drug usage means — and what it does not. And he talks about why we should discontinue some of the practices that have been around "forever," such as giving an injectable orally. That means injectable dewormers have no place in a goat owner's medicine cabinet.

We cover all the dewormers, including morantel tartrate — the only dewormer that's a feed additive. It's also one that I've never heard a vet recommend. Dr. Pesato even dispels the myth that combination horse dewormers are combination goat dewormers.

For more information on using drugs off-label, check out the Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank.

Full show notes here -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-dewormers/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you are new to selling goats, you might feel like you can't say "no" to any potential buyers. I am here to tell you otherwise.

You will hear two main points today as I tell you a few stories of people that I refused to sell goats to.

First, you should always ask questions to be sure that the buyer has done their homework and knows what a goat needs — and that they can provide that! After all of the love, care, and money you have put into raising healthy goats, you want to be sure that they go to a home that's going to continue that same excellent care.

You also want to be sure that the buyer knows what to expect as a goat owner. Goats need proper housing and food, and no, they can't be taught to not eat your rose bushes.

The second thing I talk about is requiring a deposit to hold goats so that you don't wind up holding a goat and saying no to potential buyers because you think the goat is already sold.

Full show notes here -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/selling-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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How do you avoid scams when buying goats? Should you buy registered goats? How do you know you're buying healthy goats?

If you are getting started with goats or still building your herd, you probably have a few questions. In this episode, I'm answering all of the above questions and more.

I also talk about why you should not buy goats from the sale barn, and what questions to ask a breeder when goat shopping.

 Since I teach college, I can spot plagiarism a mile away. I share some of my secrets with you, so you can figure out if a website is legitimate or if it's a bunch of photos stolen from Instagram and Facebook along with paragraphs of text that have been copied from the websites of legitimate goat breeders.

See full show notes and download the cheat sheet here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/buying-goats-mistakes/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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 Have you thought about adding chickens to your goat farm? Have you heard about keeping chickens and goats together? Maybe you already have chickens and the challenges with the goats are driving you crazy?

In today's episode, I'm talking about things to consider when chickens and goats share the same space, as well as what you can do to keep them apart. I explain leader-follower rotational grazing with chickens and small ruminants (sheep or goats), including what type of equipment you need in order to be successful.

Today's episode is sponsored by Premier 1 Supplies because we've been using and loving their products with our poultry, goats, and sheep for 20 years. These are the products I talk about in today's episode:

Poultry Door for Chicken Coops
ElectroNet 9/35/12 Electric Netting for sheep and goats
PoultryNet 12/42/3 Electric Netting

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goats-and-chickens/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Until recently, most goat breeders had never heard of Cache Valley Virus. I heard about it two years ago when an animal scientist told me that they were having a horrible time with it in their research flock.

Today's guest had never heard about Cache Valley Virus until a few months ago when she started seeing a lot of very weird things happening in her goat herd — a doe freshening with no milk, kids born with birth defects, kids dying within the first couple of weeks after birth, a tiny 2-pound LaMancha kid, an amorphus globosus, and more.

Cache Valley Virus is spread by carrier mosquitoes that bite a doe or ewe in the second month of pregnancy. In this episode we are talking to Briana Desfosses of Fox Pride Dairy Goats in New Hampshire about her experience when Cache Valley Fever struck her herd this past kidding season.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/cache-valley-virus/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Recently the Cashmere Goat Association voted to make Cashmere goats a breed. Prior to that vote, a "cashmere" goat was just a goat with a specific type of cashmere fiber. Although all goats have a cashmere undercoat, cashmere goats must have fiber of a specific length, and they must produce at least 2 ounces per year.

In this episode I'm having a conversation with Christine Hulse, secretary of the Cashmere Goat Association, talking about the breed standard, as well as the fiber standards. Christine talks about why people raise Cashmere goats, how to harvest the fiber, and what you can do with their fiber.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/cashmere-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you've ever thought about importing goats from another country, today's episode is for you. Buying a goat from across the globe is not nearly as simple as buying a goat from across the country.

There are a number of restrictions and testing required for goats, depending upon which country they are coming from, and Dr. Mary Kate Anderson, Staff Veterinary Medical Officer at the USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service, joins us in this episode to talk about everything you need to know before importing goats or sheep into the U.S.

We talk about rules for importing live animals, as well as sperm and embryos. Dr. Anderson also discusses some of the recent rules changes that actually make it easier to import goats, so if you looked at this option a few years ago and gave up, now is a good time to revisit it.

 If you want to learn more about selling goats to people in other countries, check out our episode on exporting goats.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/importing-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Whenever a doe's udder has a different texture or temperature than normal, mastitis is the first thing that we all worry about. Today's topic has been one of the most requested from my listeners, so I know it's something we all worry about from time to time.

Dr. George McCommon, professor of veterinary science and public health at Fort Valley State University, joins us today to talk about the basics of mastitis, as well as his current research project.

We start with mastitis symptoms and how a hot, hard udder is not always present when a doe has mastitis. In fact, when a doe has gangrenous mastitis, her udder may actually be cold. We discuss the California Mastitis Test, better known as the CMT, and I got my question answered about when the reagent expires!

We discuss conventional antibiotic treatments, and we also talk about how probiotics might play a role in treating mastitis. That's the subject of Dr. McCommon's research right now, and they are still working on figuring out which probiotic strains work best.

In this episode, we also talk about one of my biggest mistakes as a goat owner. Years ago I thought a doe had hypocalcemia when in fact, she had gangrenous mastitis. To learn more about how those two things could get confused, check out our episode on hypocalcemia in goats.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/mastitis-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Even though most of you reading this probably don't think of your goats as food animals, that is how they are categorized in the veterinary world. Since very few food animals don't have the opportunity to live out their natural lives, there is little research on dealing with health challenges in individual animals. The focus tends to be on herd health, contagious diseases, and production. It can become even more challenging to care for them in old age because there is even less research on the health issues faced by senior animals.

So, what's a goat owner to do when our favorite goats get old? In this episode, I'm talking to Dr. Michael Pesato, assistant clinical professor of Food Animal Medicine and Surgery at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine and a diplomat of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners for Food Animal Practice.

In a previous article on senior goats, I discussed what to expect in terms of reproduction as your goats get older, as well life expectancy, and parasites in older goats.

In this episode, we are discussing some of the most common challenges faced by senior goats, including how to deal with age-related arthritis, dental issues, and extremes of hot and cold temperatures, which are especially challenging for older goats.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/older-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Today's guests first visited Antiquity Oaks Farm about 17 years ago when they were traveling across the United States looking for all things goat. That year-long trek from the east coast to the west was chronicled in their book, Year of the Goat, which was originally published in 2007.

This year, in honor of its 15th anniversary, the publisher is bringing it back with an all-new introduction, sub-title, and cover, as well as lots of photos that were not in the original book.

In today's episode, author Margaret Hathaway and her husband, photographer Karl Schatz, are talking about how that year changed the trajectory of their lives. Like me, they went from a couple of clueless city slickers to goat breeders and farmers.

In addition to reminiscing about their visit 17 years ago when we had our first baby goat in the house, we also talk about some of their other adventures and how this book is a great read for anyone who thinks they might want to do something with goats but isn't sure exactly what.

Although they started their trek with the idea that they'd become cheesemakers, ultimately they started their own homestead and today they have an agritourism business with goat hikes as their main attractions, which was the subject of an episode with Margaret last year.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/year-of-the-goat/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you've ever wanted to add some genetics to your herd, but the cost of a live animal was out of your price range, artificial insemination is a great way to reach the same goal at a fraction of the price.

In today's episode we are talking to Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor in Production Management Medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. We are answering all of the basic questions about artificial insemination, often called AI for short.

How do you artificially inseminate a goat? There are actually three different types of AI, and Dr. Stewart discusses how each one is done, as well as the chances of success of each method and how much it costs. She also talks about some money-saving tips, such as splitting straws and renting space in a semen tank.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/artificial-insemination-in-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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We first composted a dead goat many years ago when it died in winter when the ground was frozen solid. At the time, we thought of it as the second-best option because burial was not possible. However, as we discuss in this episode, composting actually causes a carcass to decompose faster than burying.

J. Craig Williams, extension agent with Pennsylvania State University Extension in northern Pennsylvania talks about advantages of mortality composting, as well as how to do it so that you avoid bad odors and don't attract predators.

Although you can use the finished compost in your fields or gardens, mortality composting is really about disposing of a dead animal more than making compost. That means you won't be out there turning the pile every couple of weeks.

Because a compost pile can heat up to more than 130 degrees, it will kill bacteria and viruses, however it is important to note that it won't kill prions, so you should not compost a goat or sheep that had scrapie. To learn more about scrapie, check out episode 45, Scrapie in Goats and Sheep.

For more information on mortality composting, check out Cornell Waste Management Institute's website.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/how-to-compost-a-dead-goat/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you are looking for a medium sized dairy goat that produces about a gallon a day, then consider the Oberhasli, which originally came from Switzerland.

Morgan Allen of Haycreek Farm in Minnesota has been raising Oberhasli goats since the mid-1990s. Their goats have done well showing at the national level, and they have several does on the American Dairy Goat Association's Top Ten list for production.

In today's episode, Morgan is talking about what drew her to the Oberhasli and why she's still raising them after all these years. She also talks about selling their milk to a commercial cheesemaker and making their own caramel sauce.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/oberhasli-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you've ever seen the goats without ears, that's what we're talking about today! LaManchas are best known for having tiny little gopher ears, which most people either love or hate. If you raise LaManchas you know the most common question you hear is, "What happened to their ears?"

But LaManchas have a lot going for them beyond their cute looks. Today we are talking to Tania Love of Love Acres Dairy Goats, who has a small but impressive herd of LaManchas that have earned spots on the American Dairy Goat Association's Top Ten list for production.

Tania also has some great advice for anyone getting started with dairy goats, regardless of whether they choose LaManchas or another breed.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/lamancha-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Although melanoma in goats is quite rare, it is devastating when it does happen because there is no cure. In this episode, we are talking to Julie Jarvis PA-C, a retired Dermatology Physician Assistant who practiced human medicine for 21 years. She has also been a goat farmer since 2004, and one of her goats was recently diagnosed with melanoma.

In my post on squamous cell carcinoma, I talked about how easy it is to misdiagnose it, and the same is true of melanoma. Since Julie had 21 years experience in human dermatology, she knew something was seriously wrong when she saw what most people would have assumed was an injury or hoof rot.

Julie goes into detail about what she saw and what she did, as well as the research she found on melanoma in goats.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/skin-cancer-in-goats-melanoma/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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It's not unusual for people to love their goats so much that they want more! But we all have our financial limits. So the next question is, how can your goats make money for you?

In this episode I'm talking about a variety of goat businesses, starting with those that don't have a huge financial start-up investment and moving on to those that cost six figures to get started in most states.

I also mention the importance of being sure that you are doing everything legally and are covered in terms of liability.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-business-ideas/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Every aspect of your buck's health is critically important during breeding season, from his eyes and legs to his reproductive system.

Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor in Production Management Medicine at the vet school at Virginia Tech, who previously joined us for an episode on artificial insemination in goats, talks about the various aspects of a buck's health that can affect breeding success, as well as the success of your kidding season.

Dr. Stewart talks about what a vet does in a breeding soundness exam, as well as what goat owners can do to be sure their buck is in the best condition for breeding season.

We discuss epididymitis and orchitis and the many potential causes for those problems, from physical trauma to infectious disease, including some that can wind up causing an abortion storm during kidding season.

If you've ever wondered why it's so hard to find a goat owner who will provide buck service, this episode will help you understand the possible diseases that can be transmitted during breeding.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/buck-health-and-breeding/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you want a standard size dairy goat that gives a gallon or more of milk daily, then the Alpine might be for you.

In this episode, we are talking to Emily Thompson of Kara Kahl Alpines in Southeast Minnesota who has been raising goats her whole life with her sister and her parents, who started raising alpines in the 1970’s.

Emily talks about the general attributes of Alpines, as well as why she's continued to raise them for decades.

She has been a judge with the American Dairy Goat Association for 22 years and is also co-chair of judges training assessment and licensing committee.

The family shows their goats at the national level and even brought home the title of grand champion doe. They are also on milk test.

See full show notes here >>https://thriftyhomesteader.com/alpine-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Most people think that avoiding urinary calculi in male goats is as easy as balancing the calcium and phosphorus ratio, but that's only the beginning.

We are talking to Dr. Robert VanSaun, professor of veterinary science and extension veterinarian at Penn State University, about all of the different types of urinary stones, what causes them, how to prevent them, and how to treat them.

Balancing calcium and phosphorus is only helpful for preventing struvite stones, and that may not even be helpful if the goat simply has too much phosphorus in the diet.

In addition to struvite stones, goats can wind up with calcium stones from consuming too much calcium, and unlike struvite stones, calcium stones cannot be prevented or treated by adding ammonium chloride to the goat's diet.

If you live in the western US, you may see more silica stones if your goats are consuming grasses that are high in silica.

This is a must-listen episode for anyone who has male goats, whether they are intact or not.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/urinary-calculi-in-goats/

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Caseous lymphadenitis, usually called CL, in goats is an incurable and highly contagious disease. I recently helped one of our Goats 365 members think through her options when several of her goats tested positive, and I discovered that eradication of this disease from a herd is not nearly as simple as the textbooks make it sound — emotionally or medically.

In this episode, Dr. Michael Pesato, an Assistant Clinical Professor at Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, is talking about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of CL.

Dr. Pesato says that although abscesses can be treated, CL cannot be cured. While some people think it's not a big deal, it can negatively affect a goat's overall health and even fertility. Kids born to infected moms may not be as healthy as those born to CL-negative does.

We talk about what CL is and how goats can get infected. Then we talk about your options if you have goats that test positive. If a pregnant goats tests positive, can her kids be born with it? Can they get it from her after birth? Do you cull the positive goat before or after kidding

We also talk about the fact that although there used to be a CL vaccine for goats, it is no longer available, and Dr. Pesato talks about why the sheep vaccine is not recommended for goats.

If you are buying goats — or sheep — it's important to educate yourself about this important disease and how you can bring it onto your farm.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/cl-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Whole herd biosecurity screening is a valuable tool that we can use to feel confident that we have a healthy herd. Washington State University has a biosecurity screening test that uses one tube of blood from a goat to run tests for caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE), caseous lymphadenitis (CL), and Johnes.

In this episode, we are talking to Dr. Claire Burbick, Associate Professor at Washington State University and a faculty member of Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory.

CAE, CL, and Johnes are all highly contagious, so if you bring in a new goat and don't test, you could wind up with multiple goats testing positive in a few years.

Dr. Burbick goes into detail about how each test works, how accurate they are, and next steps if you get a positive result.


See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/testing-goats-for-cae-cl-and-johnes/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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In today's episode, we are talking with the oldest Saanen breeder in the US about these gentle giant of the dairy goat world. If you've ever looked at the American Dairy Goat Association's Top Ten list for milk production, you've seen his goats.

Scott Hoyman of Caprikorn Farms has been raising Saanens for more than four decades along with his wife Alice. He talks about why they originally chose Saanen goats and why they went on milk test. He also talks about how ADGAGenetics.org can help you to choose more productive goats for your herd, as well as herd sires that are more likely to improve milk production in their daughters.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/saanen-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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Do you struggle with marketing your goat-based business? Or do you think you've got it covered because you have a website and a Facebook page? Or maybe you send out an email every month or two just to let people know what you're selling at the moment or what's on sale.

In today's episode, we are talking with Liz Wilcox, the Fresh Princess of Email Marketing, about how you can use email to build a relationship with your customers. We talk about becoming friends with your fans and followers, and not simply trying to sell your product in every email.

Liz has helped thousands of people dial in their email including a plumber, a podiatrist, and even a nun, and she shares lots of ideas for those of us with goat-based businesses.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/email-marketing-goat-business/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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If you have goats, or if you are considering getting goats, you should be aware of Johnne's disease. It is an infectious disease that is highly contagious, and there is no cure.

Today's guest is Dr. Michael Pesato, an Assistant Clinical Professor of Food Animal Medicine and Surgery at Mississippi State University. He is a board certified practitioner with the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners specializing in Food Animal Practice.

We are talking about how Johne's is transmitted, the symptoms, and diagnosis. We also discuss the different types of testing, as well as the efficacy of each one, and when it makes the most sense to do a blood test or a fecal test. And finally, we talk about what to do if you discover that you have Johne's in your herd.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/johnesdisease/

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When some people hear a goat cough, pneumonia is often the first thing that comes to mind, but it is really not common in goats. A cough is also not a good indication of whether a goat has pneumonia or when it has recovered from pneumonia.

In today's episode we are talking to Dr. Michael Pesato, Assistant Clinical Professor of Food Animal Medicine and Surgery at Mississippi State University. He is board certified with the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, specializing in Food Animal Practice.

We discuss the wide variety of reasons that goats cough, as well as the real symptoms of pneumonia and how it is diagnosed. We also talk about which antibiotics work best when a goat has pneumonia and why penicillin should not be the one you reach for first.

Dr. Pesato discusses the pneumonia vaccine in cattle and why it's not appropriate for goats, as well as how management is the key to avoiding pneumonia.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/pneumonia-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com


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Although rabies in goats is not common, it is possible. In today's episode we are talking to Dr. Kevin Pelzer, a Professor of Large Animal Clinical Science, Production Management Medicine at the Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech.

We are talking about how goats can get rabies, as well as the symptoms, diagnosis, and vaccination options. Rabies in goats looks considerably different than the stereotypical rabid dog, and luckily humans are much less likely to get rabies from their goat on the rare occasion when a goat does get infected. Goats are also unlikely to give rabies to each other.

Although there is not a rabies vaccine labeled for goats, we discuss the best option that is available, and why you should avoid the dog rabies vaccine.

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/rabies-in-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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If you've been thinking about a meat breed and are looking for one that does well on pasture and forage, is parasite resistant, and hardy in general, the Kiko might be the breed for you.

In today's episode we are talking to Karen Kopf of Kopf Canyon Ranch in Idaho about their experience raising dairy goats and then switching to meat goats and specifically Kiko goats. One of the reasons I wanted to interview Karen is because of the amazing records they keep on their herd, so we get into all of the details on the breed.

Kikos were developed from feral goats in New Zealand and dairy goats, and they have no breed standard. This means there is a lot of variation between individual Kiko goats. Karen talks about the wide variation in sizes, as well as feeding, kidding, and selling meat.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/kiko-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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One of the most common questions I get during kidding season is, "why was this kid born dead?" Unfortunately, I can't answer that question because there are dozens of possibilities, starting with a long list of possible infections that can cause abortions, stillbirths, and neonatal death.

As I was planning this episode with Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor in Production Management Medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, I thought we'd discuss all the possible infectious causes of abortion, but when I opened just one veterinary textbook and looked at the possibilities, I realized there was no way we could cover all of them in a single episode.

Dr. Stewart and I decided to cover the most common causes that she sees in practice, and I added the diseases that I get the most questions about.

In this episode, we are talking about the causes, symptoms, and diagnoses of chlamydia, q-fever, campylobacter, toxoplasmosis, Cache Valley virus, the goat version of hairy shaker disease in lambs, blue tongue, brucellosis, mycoplasma, e. coli, and strep. We also cover transmission, prevention, and treatment.

While some of these diseases will affect only a single goat, others can cause an abortion storm, affecting potentially every pregnant doe in your herd. This is why it is so important to get a proper diagnosis if you have more than one doe giving birth prematurely or to stillborn kids.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/miscarriages-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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If you've listened to previous podcast episodes on parasites, you have heard us talk about the 5-point check, but what exactly is it? How can you use it to determine when you need to use a dewormer?

Quite simply, the 5 things to check are:

1. FAMACHA
2. Body condition
3. Poop
4. Coat condition
5. Bottle jaw

In this episode, I'm talking about how you can use this information, which you can get for free, to keep an eye on the parasite status of your goats.

I also talk about which worms cause which symptoms, and how different combinations of symptoms can mean different worms.

To learn more about using dewormers correctly, check out our previous episode with Dr. Michael Pesato, discussing the newest recommendations of the American Consortium of Small Ruminant Parasite Control.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/5-point-check-for-parasites/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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We have a lot of episodes on various diseases that can be prevented by vaccines, but rather than tell you to listen to all of those episodes to figure out which vaccines your goats might need, we decided to have an episode devoted to all the vaccines your goats need — as well as vaccines they probably don't need.

Dr. Kevin Pelzer, Professor of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, is talking about the CDT vaccine, which is for enterotoxemia type C and D, as well as tetanus, including dosages, timing, and frequency, including some that are off-label.

He also talks about vaccines for campylobacter and chlamydia, which can cause abortions. Then we move on to vaccines for CL, sore mouth (orf), leptospirosis, pneumonia, rabies, and the new staph aureus vaccine for mastitis.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/vaccines-for-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

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If you have a worm problem with your goats, and rotational grazing is not an option, we now have a new tool that can be helpful in breaking the life cycle of the worms. Bioworma came on the market in the U.S. in 2018 and is available through Premier 1 Supplies.

BioWorma is not just another chemical dewormer, which worms can become resistant to. It’s Duddingtonia flagrans, a natural fungus that eats the worm larvae in manure. Fungal spores are added to the livestock feed and go through the animal’s digestive tract unchanged.

After the manure lands in the pasture, the fungus goes to work eating the larvae as the eggs hatch in the manure. This breaks the life cycle of the roundworm, which gets out of control because animals are continually re-ingesting larvae from the pasture. (That’s why pasture rotation is so important.) In fact, it is estimated that 90 percent of worms on a farm are actually in the pasture rather than inside animals.

In this episode, which is sponsored by Premier 1 Supplies, we are talking to Dan Morrical, one of the "Ask an Expert" specialists at Premier 1.

Because this fungus is a very picky eater, you don’t have to worry about it upsetting the balance of anything else in the environment, such as earthworms or soil nematodes. The fungus only consumes roundworm larvae in manure of grazing animals, so it won’t work with poultry. Since it is eating the larvae, not killing them, it’s unlikely the larvae will become resistant to them the way they become resistant to chemical dewormers. (Has anything ever become resistant to being eaten?)

It’s also important to understand that the fungus does not consume 100% of the larvae, so things like pasture rotation can still help. Animals have lived with parasites inside their bodies since the beginning of time, and it’s not an entirely bad thing. We just don’t want the worms to get out of control and make the animals sick, and that’s exactly what the research showed. The fungus reduced the worm load enough that animals did not need chemical deworming.

This product won’t be for everyone, but I do see it as a lifesaver for those who are losing animals to worms because of dewormer resistance. In this episode we are talking about how to get started with Bioworma, as well as what works and what doesn't.

See full show notes here >>https://thriftyhomesteader.com/bioworma/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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If you had a doe with mastitis, a kid with stiff joints, and another kid with pneumonia, would you ever assume that all three were infected with the same disease? If mycoplasma is in your herd, it could cause all of these seemingly unrelated illnesses.

In this episode, Dr. Claire Burbick of the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory talks about this fascinating disease that can cause a wide variety of symptoms, is challenging to diagnose, and equally challenging to treat.

Dr. Burbick talks about why penicillin does not work for mycoplasma, as well as how ear mites can transmit the bacteria between goats, in addition to other methods of transmission.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/mycoplasma-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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If you don't have a veterinarian in your area who sees goats, you can take them to a veterinary teaching hospital. Many people don't realize they are open to the public and even have emergency services 24/7.

In this episode, goat breeder Tammy Gallagher and I talk about our experiences utilizing veterinary teaching hospitals at Texas A&M and University of Illinois. Even though we both went there initially because of their emergency services, we have now become huge fans.

Since Tammy is close enough to Texas A&M, she has also utilized their field services team where vets and students come to the farm to do routine herd assessments and other veterinary care.

In addition to access to 24-hour service, we also talk about having a diagnostic lab on site, as well as specialists in reproduction, surgery, dermatology, and more.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goats-and-university-vet-hospitals/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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If you think a Nigerian dwarf goat is too small and standard sized dairy goats are too big, then mini dairy goats will meet your needs perfectly.

Miniature dairy goats are a hybrid that starts with a Nigerian dwarf buck and a standard size dairy goat, such as a Nubian, LaMancha, Saanen, or any of the standard dairy goat breeds.

In today's episode, Dee Daniels, president of the Miniature Dairy Goat Association and the Milk Committee Chairperson, talks about these little powerhouse milk goats. We talk about the breed standards for the various mini dairy goats, including how you get those famous little LaMancha ears and Nubian ears, as well as the best miniature milk goat.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/mini-dairy-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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At one time or another, every goat owner will probably be faced with external parasites on their goats, which usually means lice or mites.

Dr. Michael Pesato, Assistant Clinical Professor of Food Animal Medicine and Surgery at Mississippi State University, joins us to talk about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of mites and lice in goats.

While lice in goats are very common, and can be seen with the naked eye, mites are microscopic and thankfully not so common.

We are also busting myths about external parasites, such as goats getting mites or lice from fresh bales of straw or hay. And we talk about why diatomaceous earth does not kill goat lice although it can kill chicken lice.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/external-parasites-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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As a Nigerian dwarf breeder myself, I am acutely aware of how many people think that "pygmy" is a size, not a breed of goat. In this episode, we are talking to four National Champion Pygmy breeders about what exactly makes a Pygmy goat.

Pygmy breeders Karole and Gary Miller of Fox Haven Pygmy Goats, Andrea Pursley of High Caliber Pygmy Goats and Diane Keith of Fair View and Shasta View, talk about the breed standard, what it takes to register a Pygmy goat, and what the judge is looking for in the show ring.

Unlike Nigerian dwarf goats, which can be any color or pattern, Pygmies have very strict color requirements in both coat and eye color. Our guests also talk about the difference in the body type between Pygmies and Nigerians and the historical use of Pygmy goats.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/pygmy-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

https://thriftyhomesteader.com/pygmy-goats/

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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If you only have a few does to breed each year, it might seem like a waste to own your buck. But even if you have a buck, who do you breed his daughters to? One option is artificial insemination, but another option is to co-own a buck.

Although I had heard of two people co-owning a goat before, I had never heard of four until I met today's guests when we were recording last week's episode on Pygmy goats.

Gary and Karole Miller of Fox Haven Pygmy Goats, Andrea Pursley of High Caliber Pygmy Goats, and Diane Keith of Fair View and Shasta View are co-owners of Flying Turtle's Gather Gotta Get Away, who is more commonly known as Mick.

In this episode, they tell us Mick's story on the road to becoming the National Champion and how they share ownership of him, from where he lives to where he goes to shows.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/co-owning-a-goat/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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Not only is a goat placenta very different from a human or horse placenta but how it functions is also different, as well as how it should be managed after birth.

In this episode, we are talking to Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, about what the placenta does and how it functions in goats. Like all ruminant placentas, it is actually a big blanket of membranes and cotyledons, which is why it usually takes at least two hours after birth to be expelled but can take longer and is not cause for concern.

We talk about what to do in case of retained placenta, including what does not work (although it is frequently attempted) and what you should never do because it will actually make the problem worse and could even cause death.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-placenta/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Almost everyone has a tetanus shot to protect us from a deadly disease that can be transmitted from an injury that breaks through the skin.

Although some animals are not as susceptible to tetanus, such as dogs and cats, goats can get tetanus. Like humans, which have been protected by the vaccine since the first world war, goats can also be protected from tetanus by a vaccine.

In this episode, which is sponsored by Colorado Serum, we are joined by Dr. Randy Berrier, Staff Veterinarian and Senior Vice President of Colorado Serum, which makes tetanus toxoid and antitoxin, as well as the CDT vaccine, which includes tetanus toxoid.

We are talking about how the disease is transmitted, what the symptoms are, as well as the prognosis once an animal is infected.

Dr. Berrier discusses the differences between the toxoid and the antitoxin and when it's appropriate to give each one, as well as how adding the enterotoxemia vaccine to CDT affects the timing of boosters.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/tetanus-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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Although it is a fairly common practice for goat owners to treat anemic animals with Red Cell after deworming, there had not been any research on whether it was helpful — until now.

Today's guest, Joan Burke, PhD, Research Animal Scientist at the USDA, ARS Dale Bumpers Small Farms Research Center, is one of the co-authors on a study that looked at whether using Red Cell could help an anemic goat or sheep recover more quickly after being treated with a dewormer.

Dr. Burke talks about the 4 different experiments that were done, using different dewormers, with and without Red Cell. She talks about how much Red Cell was used and the effect on the animals' packed cell volume (PCV) and fecal egg count (FEC) after one week and two weeks.

We also get into a similar study that was done using injectable iron, and she even gives you a bonus tip at the end on treating strogyloides (threadworm).

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/red-cell-for-goats/ 

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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All these years I thought we were just lucky to have never had a case of hoof rot in our goats, but in today's episode, I learned that luck has nothing to do with it.

Dr. Kevin Pelzer, Professor of Production Management Medicine at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech, talks about the bacteria that cause hoof rot and hoof scald in goats, how you know your goat has one or the other, as well as the treatment.

We also talk about the prevention of hoof rot, which boils down to good biosecurity, and prevention of hoof scald, which means keeping your goats on dry ground.

We also talk about laminitis, also called founder, and what causes it, as well as the treatment.

Dr. Pelzer also gives us some bonus tips towards the end on how we can reduce the amount of time we have to spend trimming hooves.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/hoof-rot-in-goats/

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Whenever a goat dies, we always want to know why. But the only way to know for sure is to get a necropsy, and that's what we're talking about in this episode.

I was convinced of the importance of necropsies after owning goats for only five years when a seemingly healthy doe suddenly started screaming and was dead an hour later. Without the necropsy, we never would have known that she had died from Tyzzer's disease, which is not normally seen in goats.

Dr. Jonathan Samuelson, Clinical Assistant Professor of Anatomic Pathology in the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, talks about what a necropsy is, what it can tell us, and what it can't.

We talk about gross necropsy, histopathology, electron microscopy, and other aspects of a necropsy that can tell us why our goat died about 85% of the time, according to Dr. Samuelson. But even if the necropsy can't pinpoint the exact cause of death, it can rule out causes, which can also be helpful.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-necropsy/

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If you are raising goats for meat or other products, marketing is a big part of a successful business.

In today's episode, we are talking to Leslie Svacina, owner of Cylon Rolling Acres, about what they do to market their goat meat.

Luckily Leslie had a background in marketing before they started their goat farm. She gives you a timeline of how they got started selling live animals and delivering them to the locker and then moving on to selling individual cuts, as well as how they sold through a food hub.

Now they have online sales, including a "farm club" subscription, which is similar to a CSA. Leslie talks about packaging and labeling for their retail products.

You'll also hear how they use social media and SEO to drive traffic to their website. And if you don't know what to share on social media or in your farm newsletter, Leslie talks about that too!

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/marketing-goat-meat/

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It can be scary for a goat owner to see something bulging from the vulva of a pregnant goat days or even weeks before the doe is due.

In today's episode, we are talking to Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, about what causes vaginal prolapses, the different levels of vaginal prolapse in goats, when to use a prolapse retainer, and when to call the vet.

Dr. Stewart also talks about the difference between a vaginal prolapse and a uterine prolapse, including when you can wait and watch — and when you have an emergency situation.

And finally, we talk about the genetics involved and when it's a good idea to stop breeding a doe.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/vaginal-prolapse-in-goats/

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New restrictions on over-the-counter antibiotics used in livestock will start in June 2023. Until now, anyone could walk into a farm store and buy penicillins, sulfa drugs, and other antibiotics without a prescription, but that's about to change.

In this episode, we talk to Kevin D. Pelzer, DVM, MPVM, a Professor, Large Animal Clinical Sciences at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine at Virginia Tech, about how these changes will impact goat owners and what they must do to prepare.

The first thing to know is that it won't affect drugs used only in veterinary medicine, such as amprolium, used to treat coccidiosis in goats. It only affects antibiotics that are also used in human medicine. Dr. Pelzer lists all of the antibiotics that are being included in the new directive.

We also talk about why having over-the-counter antibiotics was not the best idea to begin with. Although it allows owners to treat quickly, they may not always use the correct antibiotic because different drugs work on different organisms. So, you can't simply have a bottle of penicillin or a sulfa drug in your cabinet and assume that one antibiotic is going to treat anything that pops up.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/antibiotics-for-goats/

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Rotational grazing is the key to parasite control. After all, if you limit infection of your goats, you limit the potential for them to become severely parasitized. But there is more to rotational grazing than simply dividing up your pasture by a magic number.

Heather Glennon, Associate Professor of Animal Science at University of Mount Olive and goat owner, is talking about pasture management for parasite control in this episode.

She explains how different species of grasses have different ideal grazing heights, as well as how you can use annual forages and browse in your parasite control program. We also had a great discussion about forages rich in condensed tannins, and I realized why the chicory in my pasture might not have as much effect on parasites as sericea lespedeza.

You'll learn how you can improve your forage quality to make it more nutritious for your goats and help them be more parasite resilient. We also discuss the role that other livestock and harvesting hay can play in cleaning up your pasture and reducing the parasite load.

If you have questions, Heather can be reached via email.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/pasture-management-for-parasite-control/

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A couple of months ago, we had a Facebook post that elicited a lot of very passionate responses and also uncovered a lot of myths and misinformation about worms in goats.

In today's episode we are talking about many of the comments that were made on that post and explaining what current research says specifically about goat worms, which are different from worms in other species like dogs, cats, horses, pigs, and even cattle. We are joined by Dr. Michael Pesato, a diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners specializing in Food Animal Practice. He most recently served as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Food Animal Medicine and Surgery at Mississippi State University.

We start by explaining what "smart deworming" means and what it does not mean, and what really causes dewormer resistance. We also talk about what fecals can and cannot tell you about the worms your goat may have.

Dr. Pesato gets into the nitty gritty of why we should never use the calendar as a tool for deworming, whether you are talking about deworming in a specific month, every X number of months, or X numbers of days after the last deworming. These are all old practices that were not based on research. We also discuss when and where eggs hatch and how larvae mature, which is not commonly known.

In addition to a thorough explanation of goat worms, we also talk about continuing education for veterinarians and why you can't trust Google to give you the latest information on worms.

For additional information, check out our podcast episodes on Using Deworming Correctly (Episode 24) and New Guidelines for Using Dewormers in Goats (Episode 68).


See full show notes here >>
https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-worm-myths-and-misunderstandings/

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Losing an animal to a predator is every goat owner's worst nightmare. When it does happen, you want to know who did it and stop them from doing it again. But figuring out whodunnit can often be a challenge.

It this episode, we are talking to Gowan Batist, co-existence programs manager of the Mountain Lion Foundation. She is also a regenerative sheep rancher, hand-shearer, wool spinner, writer, and dog enthusiast who grew up outdoors with wildlife in Northern California and is committed to fostering a land stewardship ethic that increases and preserves biodiversity for future generations.

This episode is the wildlife edition of CSI as Gowan talks about how she helps farmers and ranchers figure out what predator killed their livestock and how to stop them. We also talk about the role that predators play in a healthy ecosystem.

Gowan talks about how and why different predators, including coyotes, lions, bears, and even birds and domestic dogs, kill goats and other livestock. She also talks about how different deterrents work for some predators and not others.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-predators/

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Whether you are interested in finding buck service or renting out your bucks, you don't want to miss today's episode with Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor in Production Management Medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.

Although it is important to be sure that all goats have tested negative for CAE, CL, and Johnes, that is only the beginning. Dr. Stewart is talking about a variety of diseases that can be transmitted during breeding. Some of them are not too serious, but others can cause long-term, tragic outcomes, such as an abortion storm in a few months.

Dr. Stewart tells us how you can protect your herd from these diseases and what tests are available.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/risks-of-buck-service/

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What do you do when your doe gets bred but doesn't get pregnant? There are a number of reasons why this can happen, and Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor in Production Management Medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, joins us in this episode to discuss five of the possibilities.

We are talking about the causes and treatments for cystic ovaries and false pregnancy (pseudo-pregnancy), as well as how nutrition and some plants can negatively affect a doe's ability to get pregnant. Finally, we are talking about does that might not really be does, meaning they don't have a complete reproductive system or perhaps are intersex.


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If you want to view everything we know about individual ADGA-registered dairy goats in one place, check out ADGA Genetics. It's the brainchild of Gene Dershewitz, who created the database and website. He also responds to questions from goat owners or wanna-be goat owners.

Gene says that most people are simply using the site as a pedigree viewer, but it has so much more to offer. In addition to a planned breeding function where you can see what a hypothetical breeding between a specific buck and doe would look like, you can see performance data on individual goats and more.

In this episode, we talk about how the site can be used when you are goat shopping, as well as how you can use it for goats you already own.

You can reach Gene through ADGA Genetics site or the Facebook page.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/adga-genetics/

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If your farm plans are bigger than your budget and you're not even sure where to start, help is available. Your local USDA's Natural Resource Conservation Service office can help you with technical assistance, cost-share programs, and grants.

Joshua Hammond, a public affairs specialist with the NRCS, joins us in the podcast to discuss some of the projects the government agency can help you with, including rotational grazing, fencing, and irrigation. For example, a specialist can come to your farm and develop a rotational grazing plan for you and then can help pay for it with a government grant. One hundred seventy conservation practices are at the root of what the NRCS does, such as using high tunnels, cover crops, composting, and irrigation water management.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/natural-resources-conservation-service/

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Some of the most common questions I receive from new goat owners are on the topic of manure management. Many new goat owners think they need to clean out the barn weekly or even daily, so in this episode I'm talking about how our barn cleaning practices have evolved through the years.

I am also joined by some of our Goats 365 Premium members so they can ask questions. We cover everything from the basics of mucking out stalls to deep bedding, stall mats, straw versus shavings, and different types of barn flooring.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/the-scoop-on-poop/

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Milk testing can provide you with a plethora of information about your does' milk production and the components of their milk, and they can even earn milk stars, but a lot of people never get started because they find the process daunting. 

Lisa Shepard, board member and former Performance Program Coordinator for the American Dairy Goat Association, joins us to talk about the different types of milk testing and how to get started. We talk about where to find a tester, as well as owner-sampler and group testing. You'll learn about one-day tests, 305-day tests, DHI, and DHIR. Lisa also explains how does and bucks earn milk stars, as well as the things that most commonly trip up owners when they are getting stared.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-milk-testing/

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Have you ever had a goat get an udder even though you are 100% sure she has not been anywhere close to a buck so could not possibly be pregnant? Normally, goats have to go through pregnancy and have a baby before they produce milk, but it's not impossible for a doe to start making milk without getting pregnant.

A precocious udder is one that fills up with milk even though the doe has not been bred. Most of these will just go away as mysteriously as they appeared with no intervention needed. However, that is not always the case.

In this episode, we are talking to Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor in Production Management Medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, about what causes a precocious udder and what we should and should not do in managing it.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/precocious-udders-in-goats/

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If you've ever had a goat with wonky knees, today's episode will shed some light on the problem. When a goat has carpal hyperextension, it means that the knees bend backwards rather than being straight.

We are joined today by Dr. Erica McKenzie, Professor of Large Animal Medicine, Oregon State University and Dr. Leah Streb, 3rd year Laboratory Animal Medicine Resident, UC Davis, who are just putting the finishing touches on the first study ever to look at this disease. They are talking about how it is diagnosed and the possible genetic link that they are seeing, which may mean that the disease can be passed on to offspring.

The research on this disease is in its infancy, and if you would like to contribute to future research efforts, you can contribute through one of these options:

1. Send a check payable to OSU Foundation at 4238 Research Way; Corvallis, OR 97333. In the memo section, specify Large Animal Medicine/Wonky Leg
2. Make a gift online by going the college’s giving page here. In the field underneath “I want to give to” press the x, and instead select or type in “Large Animal Medicine Fund/Wonky Leg.”

Many thanks to goat owner and podcast listener Carole Zempel of Dragon Hollow Dairy Goats for letting us know about this study.

See full show notes here >>https://thriftyhomesteader.com/carpal-hyperextension-in-goats/

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Can goats threaten your health if you're a pregnant woman? If you are a woman, there are some specific precautions you should be taking with goats giving birth and also when using drugs for synchronization.

Dr. Jamie Stewart, Assistant Professor at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and a reproductive specialist, is talking about zoonotic diseases that are of special concern to pregnant women, including toxoplasmosis, chlamydia, campylobacter, brucellosis, and q-fever. We talk about wearing gloves, a face mask, and even eye protection to protect yourself from unexpected splashes of goat body fluids, which can contain infectious organisms that can threaten pregnancy and the unborn child.

In addition to diseases, women of all reproductive stages can be affected by drugs like Lutalyse, Estrumate, and CIDRs when they come in contact with skin or mucus membranes. The potential for negative outcomes is much worse, however, for pregnant women.

One of the things we forgot to mention in this episode is that you should never perform mouth-to-mouth on a newborn baby goat because of the risk of contracting a zoonotic disease, a topic that we did discuss in our episode on Infectious Causes of Abortions in goats.

For more information, you can also check out our episodes on Zoonotic Diseases.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-diseases-and-womens-health/

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If you've been looking for a smaller breed of goat that's parasite resistant, has excellent mothering skills, and comes in a variety of colors, the Arapawa goat from New Zealand might be a good fit, especially if you are interested in conserving rare breeds.

In this episode, we are joined by Emily Nyman, Arapawa Goat Breeders Association President and Livestock Coordinator at Conner Prairie in Indiana, a living history farm museum that has a herd of Arapawa.

Their feral history means that this breed is very hardy, but there are also challenges for those who want to raise them, such as finding breeding stock. With only 300 total goats in the United States, you probably won't find them locally.

Emily talks about the Arapawa's history, appearance, size, and more in this exciting episode.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/arapawa-goats/ 

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Who wouldn't love free food for your goats? But before you call your local brewer or distiller and ask if you can pick up their spent grain, listen to this episode with Dr. Robert VanSaun, vet professor and ruminant nutritionist at Pennsylvania State University.

Spent brewers grain and distillers grain are popular feed for cattle, but are less commonly used to feed goats. We've used brew grain to feed our pigs and chickens for about ten years, but have shied away from feeding it to our goats because it doesn't come with a guaranteed nutritional analysis or even an ingredient list.

In this episode, Dr. VanSaun discusses the nutrients we know are in brewer's and distiller's grains and what may or may not be in them, including potentially harmful substances such as sulfur and mycotoxins. We talk about what questions you need to ask the brewmaster before picking up grain, as well as other sources of spent grains.

Many thanks to our listener, Doris, who requested this episode.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/brewers-grain-for-goats/

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If you've ever thought about starting a business with your dairy goats, today's episode will give you a lot of valuable information. We are talking to PJ Jonas, founder of Goat Milk Stuff, which sells all sorts of products made from goat milk. Although they focus on soap and body care products today, they also sold cheese, yogurt, gelato, and caramels before the pandemic.

PJ talks about why she started making soap and how it got turned into a business. She explains how she scaled the business from making batches of 28 bars in her kitchen to one of her sons making 415 bars per batch today. You'll also hear what it was like when her soap was featured in major media outlets like The Today Show and Oprah magazine.

We also discuss the potential downsides of owning a business, such as liability and taxes, and what it's like dealing with some members of the public who make life challenging.

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/success-with-dairy-goats/

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New goat breeders frequently ask where and how they can sell their goat kids. When I started with goats in 2002, I bought goats from breeders who had websites, so I assumed I would also need a website for selling my goats. That has been the only sales channel for my goats forever.

In this episode, Emily Nyman and I discuss what information you need on your website, such as an about page, health history of your herd, photos of your breeding stock, pedigrees, and terms of sale.

We also talk about user-friendly options for building your website, so you don't have to hire a web designer.

Because the cornerstone of every good goat breeder website is the photos, we spend a lot of time talking about the time of day, shadows, lighting, position of the goat, where to take photos, and more, including equipment.

In addition to breeding goats, Emily is also a professional photographer. You can see her photography at her website Emily Nyman.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/creating-a-website-for-your-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Every goat owner has heard that goats don't do well with anesthesia, so we are always understandably nervous when our goats need to be sedated. Dr. Kelly Chen, Veterinary Anesthesiology Resident at Cornell University, joins us in this episode to talk about why goats are so challenging when it comes to anesthesia.

First, we discuss the difference between anesthesia and analgesia and then we talk about some of the common procedures where anesthesia is used.

Dr. Chen talks about pain associated with disbudding and what the options are for veterinarians who disbud, as well as owners who do their own disbudding.

For c-sections, there are three different anesthesia and analgesia options, and Dr. Chen talks about why general anesthesia is no longer preferred.

In severe cases of urinary calculi, anesthesia is required for a couple of the different treatment options.

Dr. Chen also talks briefly about other surgical procedures being done on livestock now, such as joint replacement, pacemaker placement, and mastectomy, which require anesthesia.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/anesthesia-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Have you ever wanted to try raw milk, lauded for its health benefits, but were concerned about the safety? Like all raw foods from lettuce to oysters, there is a risk of contamination, but there’s a lot we can do to be sure that all of our raw food, including milk, is as safe as possible.

We are talking to Mark McAfee, the chairman of the Raw Milk Institute, which was founded in 2011 to help meet the growing demand for safe raw milk and to educate consumers on raw milk safety. He is also the founder of Raw Farm, the largest producer of raw milk in the world.

Raw milk has been a controversial topic for some time. The debate rages between those who praise its health benefits and the regulators who insist that consuming raw milk holds far more risk than benefit. So, what is the truth? And if we choose to consume raw milk, how can we be certain that it has been handled properly – from the milk stand to cold storage – and is safe to drink?

In this episode, Mark discusses common pathogens present in raw milk, the basics of what makes raw milk more beneficial than pasteurized, the historical reasoning behind the pasteurization of milk, and how we can ensure that the raw milk we drink is clean and safe. He also touches on the process behind commercial dairy-to-store pasteurized milk.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/raw-milk-safety/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you ever wondered about the benefits of milk testing, today’s episode contains an abundance of valuable information. Today we are talking to Jeremy Leather, a field technician at Dairy One, a milk testing lab in New York State. While Dairy One offers multiple services, including forage and soil testing, we are focusing on their excellent milk testing services and how milk testing can have a major positive impact on the health of your herd.

Jeremy discusses the basics of milk testing and the most common things goat owners test for and why. He also explains the usefulness of the data that comes from each test and how testing could even help your veterinarian provide more effective treatment to a goat suffering from mastitis. Speaking of data, one benefit of milk testing is that you will always have access to it. No more losing binders containing years of collected data on your herd. Replacement data is always available online.

Finally, Jeremy touches on the added perk of testing for pregnancy through milk testing and the many reasons you should begin milk testing in your herd right away.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/milk-test-reports/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/farm-stays/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Have you ever thought about hosting guests on your farm for additional income, but were too unsure about the logistics to take the first step? Today’s podcast will offer clarity and may even inspire you to finally venture into the world of agritourism.

We are talking to Scottie Jones, co-owner of Leaping Lamb Farm in Oregon and the founder of FarmStay USA, a national marketing and referral website for working farms that offer agritourism opportunities. 

Agritourism has been growing in popularity for some time. First it was glamping, and now Airbnb has added a “farm stay” category. It is obvious that agritourism could help many farms not only survive, but thrive.

Agritourism is also an essential educational tool in bridging the gaping divide between urban and rural life, especially in a time when many no longer understand where their food comes from or how hard it can be to produce it. 

In this episode, Scottie discusses the necessary insurance requirements, how FarmStay farms differ from other “farm stays” offered on sites such as Airbnb and VRBO, how to offer a true experience rather than just “a place to stay,” how to effectively market your farm, and her top tip for those looking to get into agritourism. Scottie also addresses the most asked questions: how much should I charge, and how much can I expect to make?

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/farm-stays/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/listeriosis-in-goats/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Listeriosis can strike fear into the hearts of goats owners, not only because it needs prompt treatment to increase the odds of survival, and because it can be difficult to diagnose due to the fact that it shares symptoms with several other serious illnesses, but also because Listeria bacteria exist everywhere. 

Today, Dr. Melissa Holahan, a postdoctoral researcher from the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, is joining us to talk about listeriosis and how we can prevent these zoonotic bacteria from sickening both our goats and us. She details the symptoms to watch for, the most common approach to treatment, and the medications you should have available on your farm in order to offer swift treatment.

Dr. Holahan also touches on popular fermented hays, such as Alfahay and Chaffhaye, and whether or not they are putting your herd at risk of listeriosis. She also stresses the importance of proper hay storage to reduce mold and keeping feeding areas clean.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/listeriosis-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/herd-shares/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Herd shares are often considered to be a sneaky way to circumvent state laws prohibiting the sale of raw milk. But did you know that herd shares themselves are not legal in all 50 states? In addition, there is far more nuance to the endeavor than simply selling shares in your herd–both in terms of legalities and liabilities.

Today, we’re talking to Alexia Kulwiec, an attorney and Executive Director of the Farm to Consumer Legal Defense Fund. In this episode, Alexia discusses how herd shares work, the general nuances of state laws regarding herd shares, what a sufficient herd share contract should contain, and, most importantly, the steps you as the producer can take to protect yourself from legal issues.

She also touches on the Raw Milk Nation interactive map found on the Farm to Consumer Legal Defense Fund’s website and reveals why maps like this are far from the end-all-be-all when it comes to determining if raw milk sales or herd shares are legal in your state.


See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/herd-shares/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/good-pasture/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

It can be a seemingly insurmountable challenge to balance the grazing needs of your herd with the necessity to maintain pasture and forage growth. If only there was a formula to strike that perfect balance between allowing your goats to get the nutrition they need while sustaining plant growth for future grazing. We have good news! There is a clear path to harmony when it comes to grazing.  

Today, we’re talking to Dr. Woody Lane, a livestock nutritionist and forage specialist and consultant, who's the owner of Lane Livestock Services and the author of three books on forages, grazing, soils, and livestock nutrition. In this episode, Dr. Lane delves into the world of management intensive grazing, a nuanced extension of rotational grazing. 

Dr. Lane details the four basic principles you need to implement in order to get the most out of your forage growth and grazing.  He also tackles the common question “how many goats per acre?” with a simple, yet brilliant, task you can perform to answer that question with precision for your specific land and herd. As a bonus, Dr. Lane reveals the reason it has been such a challenge to comfortably address that question in the past. 

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/good-pasture/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/pasture-grasses/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

In this bonus episode with Dr. Woody Lane, a livestock nutritionist and forage specialist and consultant, who's the owner of Lane Livestock Services and the author of three books on forages, grazing, soils, and livestock nutrition, we are tackling some great questions submitted by several Goats 365 members.

Dr. Lane addresses warm season grasses–great for warmer climates–and the unique biochemical makeup that differentiates them from cool season grasses. He also gives important management advice that could prevent your animals from being sickened by the toxic compounds found in sorghum sudangrass and some tall fescue. He also answers the question we all want to know: “What is the best kind of pasture for goats so you can stop worrying about them dying?”

This the second half of Dr. Lane’s awesome interview which lasted more than an hour. If you haven’t yet heard the first half, be sure to listen in as Dr. Lane covers the four basic principles of good grazing, offers a practical way to measure how many goats per acre your pasture can support, and explains the amazing function of a rumen. 

See full show notes here >>  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/pasture-grasses/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/hay-testing/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

If you’ve ever wondered about the importance of forage and hay testing to ensure your herd is receiving maximum nutrition, today’s episode will provide you with lots of valuable information. We are talking to Cassy Streeter, an expert in near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIR) who directs Dairy One’s NIR affiliate network of more than 30 members in 16 countries. She also holds both Bachelors and Masters degrees in animal science from Cornell University.

Understanding hay quality can help you optimize animal nutrition and productivity, whether you’re raising goats for meat, dairy, or both. Forage testing can be a component in balancing and managing your herd’s nutrition, and even keep you from spending money on unnecessary supplements or expensive feeds.

Wading into the world of hay testing can feel overwhelming. Cassy clarifies the entire process–from collecting a sample, choosing which test best fits your needs, how to send your samples to the lab, and what to do with your results once you receive them.

Cassy also offers some great advice on accessing hay bale corers, also known as hay probes, for sample collection without having to make a costly investment. More importantly, she outlines how to use them correctly. She also pulls back the curtain on how forage testers process and analyze hay samples for accurate results. 

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/hay-testing/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/champion-goats/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Welcome to the world of showing goats! Have you ever dreamed of picking the perfect breeding pair that produces such a successful combination of genetics that you wind up with a doe that wins the title of Grand Champion at the National Show? It is likely that more than a few of us have, and the reality is, with the right education on goat conformation and breed standards coupled with an exacting eye, it is possible to produce that winning goat.

In today’s episode, we are talking to Ed Jodlowski, the breeder and owner of this year’s ADGA Grand National Champion doe. He is also the owner of Kickapoo Valley Dairy Goats and the current president of the American Dairy Goat Association. Having personal experience with all dairy goat breeds except Guernseys, Ed tells the story of the evolution of his own winning herd, and whether luck, skill, or both played into his success.

He also fills us in on the pros of being a judge in the show ring, confirms the significant benefit of attending goat shows now even if you aren’t yet ready to show your own goats, and shares his surprising plans for the future.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/champion-goats/
To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/choosing-goat-mineral/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Does attempting to select the right minerals for your herd make your head spin? Do you know which three minerals are the primary keys to your herd’s health? How about the proper levels that should be included in a good mineral? Is there an easy way to know that the mineral you selected is appropriate and worth your money?

In this episode, I cover the nutrients that goats are most likely to become deficient in and what you should look for when shopping for a great loose mineral. I also touch on mineral antagonists and how balance really is key in your nutritional program. Stop throwing your money away buying minerals that are mostly salt. Learn the whats, whys, and hows for choosing a good mineral. 

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/choosing-goat-mineral/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/anemia-in-goats/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Goat owners should be well-versed in the art of the FAMACHA check. We know that bright red mucous membranes of the eyes are a good sign while pale or white mucous membranes could indicate a heavy parasite load and anemia. But if your goat is anemic, outside of administering a dewormer, should you offer additional treatment? Did you know that your goat may also be anemic from causes other than a heavy parasite load?

In this episode, we are joined again by Dr. Robert Van Saun, professor of veterinary science at Pennsylvania State University and a specialist in ruminant nutrition. Dr. Van Saun covers various other ailments that could lead to anemia in your goat. He also discusses those oral iron supplements and the science behind whether or not they are actually effective in treating an anemic animal. Plus, should you be worried about anemia if your goat eats kale?

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/anemia-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/guardian-llamas/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Have you been considering getting a guard llama for your herd? You may have many questions such as: where can I find a good guard llama? How much should I expect to pay? Are there traits I should look for? What about the importance of age and the castration status for males? 

In this episode, Deborah is talking to Carol Reigh of Buck Hollow Llamas, an expert who has been raising and breeding llamas for 27 years and selling guard llamas for around 20 years. Listen in as she offers sage advice on choosing a good guard llama, identifying behavioral problems you should watch out for and what can lead to them, how to introduce your new guard to your herd, and why you should always avoid purchasing llamas from auctions. Plus, learn about Berserk Male Syndrome and why bottle-fed llamas could be dangerous.   

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/guardian-llamas/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/rent-a-goat/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Delve into the business of goat landscaping, also known as targeted grazing, goatscaping, and even rent-a-goat. In this business, your herd is hired by a landowner to clear off an overgrown plot of land. This has the potential to create a triple win as the goats could get some great browse, the landowner is able to clear land in a holistic way, and you can pocket some extra cash.   

Today, Margaret Chamas, the affiliate network support person for Goats on the Go, is joining us to cover the ins and outs of this intriguing and potentially lucrative market. She discusses the number of goats you need to get started, startup costs, overhead costs that may surprise you, and what you can expect to charge for your services.

She also covers potential pitfalls such as seeing your herd’s body condition slip when the available browse is lower in quality, dealing with escaping goats, and the most difficult part of the job.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/rent-a-goat/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-conformation/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

Show goats are held to strict conformational standards, but we often overlook the fact that our own herds would benefit from those same conformational standards. Extra teats, bad legs, weak pasterns, and crooked faces may sound as though they aren’t that big of a deal outside of the show ring, but those standards have practical reasoning behind them. Ultimately, they produce a strong, sound specimen that can live a long, productive life. Don’t we all want that for our goats, even those that will never see a show ring?  

In this episode, we’re talking to Emily Thompson who has been an ADGA judge for 24 years, co-chaired several committees, served on the Linear Appraisal Committee, and raises Alpines and Toggenburgs with her family under the Kara Kahl Alpines and the Legendairy Toggenburg herd names. Emily offers clarification on breed standards in the ADGA Guidebook, the two areas that award the most points in the show ring and why, and the importance of a good mammary system.

She also covers what to look for regarding good conformation when purchasing a new goat, defects that will never go away (and some surprising ones that may), as well as some serious defects that should immediately land a goat into either the non-breeding pet or freezer category.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-conformation/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/nigerian-dwarf-goats-in-adga/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

The Nigerian Dwarf goat has become a staple breed in the American Dairy Goat Association, and it has only grown in popularity since first arriving in the US from Africa in the 20th century. But how did these wonderful goats climb the ladder from relative obscurity to high demand?

In today’s episode, we are talking to Karyl Dronen, an ADGA Pioneer who worked tirelessly beginning in the late ‘90s to get Nigerian Dwarfs accepted into the American Dairy Goat Association. Karyl relays the story of how she, along with several others who were equally as passionate, lobbied to have the breed accepted into ADGA as a dairy goat breed. She also touches on how the induction of the breed into ADGA in 2005 has gone on to support the organization into the present day.

Though Nigerian Dwarfs are so well-known today, there was a time when they were little known and out of favor against the bigger dairy breeds. Karyl’s story of how a group of people saw their potential and worked relentlessly to bring them into the limelight is truly inspiring and one that any lover of the breed should hear.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/nigerian-dwarf-goats-in-adga/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/blood-transfusion-in-goats/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

There have been instances where a goat owner watched a severely parasitized, anemic goat die because they did not realize that a life-saving blood transfusion was an option for their animal. Surprising as it may be, it is!

In this episode, Dr. Ryan Breuer, Assistant Clinical Professor of Large Animal Internal Medicine at the University of Wisconsin-School of Veterinary Medicine and Diagnostic Case and Outreach Coordinator at the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, discusses blood transfusions in small ruminants. He covers when a transfusion may be needed, whole blood vs plasma transfusions, potential risks, and whether or not goats are always crossmatched with their donors.

Dr. Breuer also talks about his research on the practice of xenotransfusions, which is transferring blood from one species to another–from cow to goat in his study. He discusses why they chose a cow as the donor and whether or not xenotransfusions can be successful in emergency situations when a same-species donor is not available.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/blood-transfusion-in-goats/
To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/raising-goats-in-australia/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

As goat owners in America, we know the challenges we face in caring for our herds here at home. But what is it like to breed and raise goats in another country?

In this episode, Sue Ludwig and Jade Holberton are here to talk about raising goats in Australia. Sue is the founder of the Australian Miniature Goat breed, and is the author of Australian Miniature Goats: A Comprehensive Guide to a Unique Little Breed. She is also a lifetime member and president of the Miniature Goat Breeders Association of Australia (MGBA).

Jade is secretary of the MGBA and a major importer of Nigerian Dwarf genetics into Australia from the US, mostly from Old Mountain Farm. She has been very successful with embryo and AI programs and bringing in new genetics. 

Sue and Jade detail how they approached the breeding of the Australian Miniature Goat, an especially challenging undertaking considering that live animals cannot be imported into Australia due to the fact that the US has not yet been officially declared scrapie-free. They also discuss some of the practical challenges Australian goat owners face, such as finding knowledgeable vets and good minerals.

~~

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/raising-goats-in-australia/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/hermaphroditism-freemartinism-goat-infertility/
--  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! 

Description

When our does have trouble conceiving, our minds often tend to go toward infectious causes. But there are non-infectious causes of infertility to consider as well. 

In this episode, Dr. Fauna Smith, Assistant Professor of Livestock Herd Health and Reproduction at the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, discusses in detail the non-infectious causes of infertility. She explains the difference between true hermaphrodites and pseudo-hermaphrodites and explains the genetic reasons behind why breeding polled to polled can lead to sexual abnormalities.

Dr. Smith talks about freemartinism and how freemartins could be more common in goats than we think. She also touches on the process of fetus mummification in utero and how retained fetuses, as well as anatomic abnormalities from previous problem kiddings, can also negatively impact fertility. 

See full show notes here >> 
https://thriftyhomesteader.com/hermaphroditism-freemartinism-goat-infertility/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/uterine-rupture-and-hemorrhage-in-goats/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

In this deeply personal and emotional episode, host Deborah Niemann shares the heartbreaking story of her goat, Coco, who experienced a uterine rupture and hemorrhage during a challenging kidding in 2013. 

Deborah takes listeners on a journey through Coco's life, from her birth to her tragic passing after giving birth to quintuplets. This episode not only honors Coco’s memory but also provides valuable insights into the risks of uterine tears and hemorrhages in goats, how to recognize the signs, and what steps can be taken to prevent or address such emergencies.

Key Takeaways

• Uterine ruptures can occur during difficult births, especially when there is excessive pressure or improper handling during interventions.
• Goats are horizontal animals, so internal bleeding may not be visible externally. Instead, blood collects in the abdomen.
• Warning signs include mental absence, lethargy, pale eyelids (indicating anemia), and disinterest in kids or milking.

Resources Mentioned

1. Deborah’s book: Goats Giving Birth 
2. Previous podcast episodes: 
   • Blood Transfusion in Goats
   • Anemia in Goats

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/uterine-rupture-and-hemorrhage-in-goats/ 

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Happy anniversary to us! FTLOG is five years old! As we enter our sixth year, you can continue to count on us to help you cut through the clutter of conflicting information out there so that you can be confident that your goats will be living their best lives! 

You can expect to hear from more goat experts like veterinary professors and published scientists who are on the leading edge of goat research. You’ll also hear from goat owners who have turned their love of goats into a successful business. And this year, you’ll hear more stories about goats and the people who love them. 

I’m Deborah Niemann, your host and former clueless city slicker who just wanted a couple of goats so I could make goat cheese. Before I knew what had happened, two goats turned into 20, and a simple desire to make cheese turned into a career in helping people raise their goats. 

Learn more on our website, fortheloveofgoats.com 

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/sharing-milk-with-baby-goats/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply!

Description

The answer to, “When can I start milking my doe?” is not as simple as listing the specific age of the kids. In this episode, we are discussing the complexities of sharing milk with baby goats and offering practical advice for goat owners who want to balance kid health with milk production. 

Deborah draws on her experience as both a homesteader and a former Board Certified Lactation Consultant to share important tips on when to start milking, how to manage multiple kids, and how to ensure healthy growth for your goat kids.

Whether you’re dealing with a single kid or a set of quintuplets, understanding how milk production works and monitoring your kids’ growth is essential to avoid common problems like low milk supply and slow weight gain.

Key Takeaways

• Milk does with a single kid from day one to maintain a strong milk supply.
• Colostrum is vital in the first 24 hours—kids need 20% of their body weight in colostrum within this time to develop a healthy immune system.
• Weigh kids daily for the first two weeks to ensure they are gaining at least 4 ounces per day.
• Dam-raised kids can be just as friendly as bottle-fed kids with enough human interaction.

Related Resources

• Goats 365 Community: goats365.com
• Podcast episodes: 
  • Colostrum for Baby Goats
  • Basics of Bottle Feeding Goat Kids

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/sharing-milk-with-baby-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/c-section-in-goats/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! 

Description

In this episode, host Deborah Niemann shares the emotional and educational story of Caboose, the first goat on her farm to undergo a C-section. As part of the podcast’s fifth-anniversary celebration, Deborah reflects on the challenges, lessons learned, and how this experience helped her understand the critical importance of timely veterinary intervention during kidding complications.

Deborah details what led to Caboose’s C-section, including the initial signs of trouble, her attempts at manual intervention, and the decision to take Caboose to the University of Illinois for surgery. She also addresses common misconceptions about manual dilation and the danger of attempting at-home C-sections.

This episode is a valuable resource for goat owners, providing insights into recognizing when a goat might need a C-section and how to ensure the best possible outcome for both mom and kids.

Key Takeaways

• C-sections should always be performed by a veterinarian in a clinical setting for the safety of the goat and her kids.
• Failure to dilate (ringwomb) usually requires surgical intervention.
• Kids don’t go from healthy to dead instantly. Oxygen deprivation occurs over time, and delayed veterinary intervention can lead to complications or loss.
• Timely veterinary care is essential—don’t wait too long if things aren’t progressing during labor.

Resources Mentioned

• Deborah’s book: Goats Giving Birth: What to Expect During Kidding Season
• Learn more and join the Goats 365 community at www.goats365.com

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/c-section-in-goats/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

As goat owners, understanding diseases that can affect our herds is crucial for maintaining healthy animals and preventing the spread of illnesses. In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Linda Detwiler, staff veterinarian on the sheep and goat health staff at the USDA APHIS Veterinary Service, to discuss scrapie, a neurological disease affecting sheep and goats.

Dr. Detwiler provides an update on the current state of scrapie in the United States, including its history, transmission, symptoms, testing methods, genetic resistance, and efforts to eradicate it.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• What scrapie is and why it matters to sheep and goat breeders
• How scrapie is transmitted and its long incubation period
• Symptoms of scrapie in sheep and goats
• Testing methods for live and deceased animals
• The role of genetic resistance in controlling scrapie
• Challenges in eradicating the last few cases of scrapie in the US
• The importance of slaughter surveillance and official ID in disease control
• Current progress toward declaring the US scrapie-free

Key Highlights

• Scrapie is a prion disease with a long incubation period (2–5 years) that affects the brain and spinal cord of sheep and goats.
• The US has not had a reported case of scrapie since January 2021. To be declared scrapie-free by international standards, seven years without a case must pass.
• Genetic resistance plays a significant role in controlling scrapie. Certain genetic markers in sheep (e.g., RR at codon 171) and goats (e.g., K at codon 222) indicate increased resistance.
• Slaughter surveillance has been instrumental in identifying cases. Since its inception in 2003, over 765,000 samples have been tested.
• Official ID is critical for tracing positive cases back to their source and preventing further spread.

Resources Mentioned

• USDA APHIS Veterinary Services
• World Organization for Animal Health

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/scrapie-in-goats-and-sheep/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/americans-experience-with-goats-in-kenya/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! 

Description

In this fascinating episode, Deborah Niemann sits down with Mark Hicks, an author and adventurer, to discuss his unforgettable experience with goats during a trip to Kenya. Mark’s journey was part of his seminary doctorate program, where he stayed with a pastor who also happened to be a goat farmer. What he encountered there was a completely different approach to goat farming—one that challenged his understanding of how these animals are raised and utilized in different cultures.

During his stay, Mark observed that goats were a primary source of nutrition for the local community. He and his group had the rare opportunity to witness a goat being butchered, an experience that provided valuable insight into how food is prepared and consumed in different parts of the world.

One of the most surprising moments of Mark’s journey came when he learned about the local tradition of eating raw goat kidney. In this region, the kidney is considered a delicacy, often given as a treat to children. Curious about the experience, Mark and one of his fellow travelers decided to give it a try. Beyond the kidney, he was struck by how every part of the goat was utilized, including the blood, which was given to the farm’s dogs as a food source.

Reflecting on this experience, Mark gained a deeper appreciation for the cultural differences in food practices. What might seem unusual or even unappetizing to one person can be a cherished tradition in another part of the world. His time in Kenya also reinforced the importance of sustainability, as the local farmers ensured that no part of the animal went to waste. 

Through this conversation, Mark shares not only his incredible journey but also the broader lessons that travel can teach us about food, culture, and the different ways people sustain themselves around the world. Tune in to hear his full story and gain a new perspective on the role of goats in global communities!

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/americans-experience-with-goats-in-kenya/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to  https://thriftyhomesteader.com/dewormer-resistance-goat-owners-experience/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! 

Description

In this insightful and eye-opening episode, host Deborah Niemann is joined by Tammy Gallagher of Shady Paddock Farm in Texas to discuss the challenges of dewormer resistance and parasite management in goats. Tammy, a certified FAMACHA instructor and Nigerian Dwarf breeder, shares her personal experience of losing goats to barber pole worms and the lessons she learned in regaining control of her herd’s health.

Tammy’s story underscores the importance of understanding parasite biology, pasture management, and responsible dewormer use. Through trial, research, and adaptation, she has successfully built a herd with strong parasite resistance and implemented effective strategies to reduce worm loads without over-reliance on dewormers.

Key Takeaways

• Dewormer resistance develops from overuse and improper use of dewormers, leading to ineffective treatments.
• Farm environment plays a significant role in parasite management—what works in one location may not be effective in another.
• A combination of selective breeding, pasture management, and strategic dewormer use can help reduce worm burdens.
• Learning how to perform fecal egg counts at home allows goat owners to identify high-risk animals and make informed deworming and culling decisions.

Lessons Learned from Tammy’s Experience

• Parasite management is not one-size-fits-all—what works for one farm may not work for another.
• Identifying and culling high-risk goats can make a significant difference in reducing parasite loads.
• Sustainable parasite control involves a mix of breeding, nutrition, and pasture improvements.
• Understanding the biology of parasites and how they spread is crucial for effective management.

Related Resources

• FAMACHA training is available in the Goats 365 membership

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/raising-goats-in-canada/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! 

Description

In this episode, host Deborah Niemann is joined by Mallory Kaiser, president of the Alberta Goat Association and vice chair of the Canadian National Goat Federation. Mallory shares insights into the goat industry in Canada, including available breeds, import/export challenges, traceability regulations, and the demand for goat products. Whether you're curious about how goat farming differs in Canada or considering expanding your own herd, this episode is packed with valuable information.

Key Takeaways:

• Canada has a strong demand for goat meat, but local production struggles to meet consumer needs.
• Strict import regulations limit genetic diversity, making it difficult to bring in new bloodlines from the U.S. or Europe.
• New traceability requirements could open doors for better disease monitoring but are met with resistance from producers.
• Goat farming in Canada comes with unique challenges, from frigid temperatures to predator threats, requiring strategic planning and infrastructure.
• The future of goat farming in Canada depends on better regulation, improved record-keeping, and stronger trade relations with the U.S.

Correction Notice:
In this episode (at 01:05), the guest mentioned that the Canadian Meat Goat Association is in the process of having Spanish goats recognized as a designated breed in Canada. This was incorrect. The correct information is that the Canadian Meat Goat Association is working on having Savannah goats registered in Canada, not Spanish goats.

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-polio/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! 

Description

Goat polio is a serious and often misunderstood condition—frequently mistaken for other neurological diseases like listeriosis, meningeal worm, or even rabies. 

In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Melissa Holahan, a small ruminant veterinarian, goat breeder, and former lecturer and research assistant at Washington State University. As a breeder of Nigerian Dwarf and Alpine goats herself, Dr. Holahan brings a unique combination of clinical expertise and hands-on experience to this important conversation.

Dr. Holahan explains that goat polio isn’t technically a disease on its own, but rather a syndrome caused by brain swelling (cerebral edema), often linked to a disruption in thiamine (vitamin B1) production. You’ll hear why early diagnosis and veterinary involvement are critical—and why relying solely on Facebook advice or over-the-counter B complex may not be enough to save your goat. She also shares what recovery can look like, along with potential long-term side effects.

Key Takeaways:

• What goat polio is and why it’s more accurately considered a syndrome
• How it differs from listeriosis, meningeal worm, and rabies
• Early signs and symptoms to watch for, including blindness, nystagmus (eye twitching), and mobility issues
• The role of thiamine in treatment—and the risks of incorrect dosing
• Environmental and dietary factors that can contribute, such as moldy feed, grain overload, and toxic plants
• Prevention tips, including proper nutrition, clean feeding practices, and feed security 

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

Want to support the content you love?

Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

Got a question? 🤔  Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/from-lab-coat-to-cheesecloth/ --  and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! 

What happens when a medical career ends—but a passion for something totally different begins? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kandice Marchant, a retired physician who traded her lab coat for a cheesecloth. After years of serving patients, Kandice now crafts artisan cheese, bringing a scientist’s precision and a cheesemaker’s creativity to every batch.

We talk about:

• How her medical background turned her on to cheesemaking
• What sparked her interest in artisan cheese to begin with
• Creating her own signature cheeses 
• Opening a retail shop
• Why it's never too late to start a second act

If you’ve ever dreamed of changing careers, getting into cheesemaking, or just love hearing from people who follow their passion—you’ll love this episode.

See full show notes here >> https://thriftyhomesteader.com/from-lab-coat-to-cheesecloth/

To see the most recent episodes, visit  ForTheLoveOfGoats.com

Want to support the content you love?
Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

#001 - Join host and author Deborah Niemann as she tells you her goat story, which started in 2002, as well as why she decided to start a podcast and what you can expect in the coming weeks.


Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/my-goat-story/
To see the most recent episodes, visit FortheLoveofGoats.com

Want to support the content you love?
Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

#002 - Today we're talking to ruminant nutritionist Laura Marie Kramer, Director of National Accounts for Standlee Premium Western Forage, about the difference between different types of hay, as well as the difference between pellets and long-stemmed forage. But first we get nerdy about the whole ruminant digestive tract and how it is different from monogastrics.


Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/forage-and-feeding-goats/
To see the most recent episodes, visit FortheLoveofGoats.com


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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

#003 -  Today we are stepping out of the milk, meat, and fiber goat worlds. We are talking about the elite athletes of the caprines -- pack goats -- with our guest Marc Warnke of packgoats.com. We're discussing how to choose future pack goats, as well as training, and feeding. These are not your typical pet wethers that spend their days lounging in the pasture. These goats grow bigger than any I've ever seen. They walk several miles per day while carrying one-third of their body weight. We also talk about how they compare to using horses, mules, or llamas for packing adventures.

Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/packing-with-goats/
To see the most recent episodes, visit  FortheLoveofGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

In this episode, I'm talking about what you need to have ready before kidding season starts, and I'm sharing some of the things we learned the hard way so you don't have to make the same mistakes. (Like don't leave your clean kidding towels in the barn because mice will make a mess of them!) I'm also giving you tips and tricks for kidding in the middle of a cold winter so that you can reduce the risk of hypothermia for your baby goats.

Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/getting-ready-for-goat-birthing/
To see the most recent episodes, visit FortheLoveofGoats.com

Want to support the content you love?
Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

#005 Angora goats are not just cute. They also produce mohair, which is an exquisite fiber used in clothing, tapestries, and rugs. In this episode, Chris McLaughlin of Laughing Crow & Co Flower and Fiber Farm talks about her angora goats. Since she also raises Nigerian dwarf dairy goats, she explains how the angoras have different needs and personalities. She also shares her secrets on how they can co-exist with her flower farm.

Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/angora-goats-with-chris-mclaughlin/
To see the most recent episodes, visit FortheLoveofGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

#006 Worms in goats are a common problem, and resistance to chemical dewormers is growing. Would you like to have an all-natural feed for your goats that was scientifically proven to kill intestinal worms, coccidia, and even housefly larvae in the goat manure? What if that food was also non-bloating and reduced the somatic cell count of milking does? Sericea lespedeza does all of that! 

Today I'm talking to Tom Terrill, Ph.D., of Fort Valley State University in Georgia, an animal science professor and researcher who has studied sericea lespedeza for more than a decade. Dr. Terrill talks about how to incorporate lespedeza into your goats' diet as forage, as pellets, or as hay. He also provides tips on planting and growing, as well as harvesting lespedeza hay. 

Here is a fact sheet about sericea lespedeza authored by Dr. Terrill. Want more to read? Here are more than two dozen other studies and articles about sericea lespedeza, most of which were written by or co-authored by Dr. Terrill.

Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/natural-parasite-control-with-lespedeza/

To see the most recent episodes, visit FortheLoveofGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

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No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

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🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

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If you are still trying to decide which breed of goat to raise, or if you're looking to add another breed to your farm, you might consider kinder goats. They were originally a cross between a pygmy and a Nubian, but today they are their own breed. In this episode, I'm talking to Sue Beck, president of the Kinder Goat Breeders Association, who has been raising kinders for 12 years. 

She talks about the milk, the meat, the myths, and the misconceptions that people have, and we also talk about the lure of getting goats from lines that tend to throw quadruplets or quintuplets. And if you've ever said that you couldn't eat meat from an animal that you knew when it was alive, Sue has a solution for you!

Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/kinder-goats/
To see the most recent episodes, visit FortheLoveofGoats.com

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Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐

Send us a text - we love hearing from you! Just a heads-up: this is a one-way inbox, so we can’t respond here!

If you've heard that meat goats need to be finished on grain, you'll want to hear this interview with Jennifer Miller, DVM, a small animal veterinarian who raises meat goats with her husband on their small farm in central Illinois. Although Jennifer doesn't work with goats as a veterinary professional, you'll see that she has put a lot of research into their decision to raise their goats on pasture and hay. We talk about how they got started with goats and why they decided to raise them on pasture and hay. She also discusses their experiment with spent brew grain from beer breweries in her area and corn.

She also does the math and explains how a pound of protein from hay costs much less than a pound of protein from grain, which costs less than a pound of protein from a protein tub. She shared this formula for "Calculating Cost of Complete Protein," which means, figuring out how much you are paying for a pound of protein for whatever you are feeding.

Full show notes here --- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/raising-meat-goats-on-pasture/

To see the most recent episodes, visit FortheLoveofGoats.com

Want to support the content you love?
Head over to -- https://thrifty-homesteader.ck.page/products/love-goats-tip-jar

Thanks for tuning in!

No one ever said raising goats was easy, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune or drive you crazy! You just need the right information.

🔹 Check out Goats 365 membership

🔹 Or explore The Goat Academy

Happy goat-keeping! 🐐