Herd management is very important to us here at Shantara Acres Farm. So far we've been blessed with great stock that has remained virtually problem-free. We hope to continue that trend in future years.
All goats get free access to grass hay and/or pasture at all times, fresh water, shelter and shade. We use a lot of alfalfa pellets or alfalfa hay when we can get it.
Grain is fed at milking times and given to kids free choice from birth. Grains consist of both a pelleted ration and mixed whole grains such as barely, sunflower seeds, oats, cracked corn, etc. Minerals are available free choice.
To make sure our herd gets the proper amounts of selenium and copper we give bo-se shots 4 times a year or more often as needed, and copper bolus 2 to 3 times per year.
Worming is done right after kidding and as needed thereafter as indicated by fecal exams. Milk withdrawl times are adhered to for wormed or medicated does.
We do cocci prevention every 21 days on kids until they are eating their medicated grain with gusto and eating enough of it.
We attend all births and most kids are bottlefed. Pre-ordered kids are started on pasturized colostrum and milk.
We test for CAE every 1 to 2 years, and so far all stock has tested negative.
Of course we give the normal goat vaccines on a regular schedule and all kids are started on their vaccines soon after birth. We disbud all kids and they are tattooed before they leave the farm if possible.
Feet on all goats are trimmed once per month.
In winter we bed deeply over a dirt floor, adding more bedding as needed and removing anything wet. The lower layer composting helps keep the does warmer on cold nights. In the summer we have many, many trees for shade and the goats take full advantage of them. We strive to keep them comfortable and happy in all seasons of the year.
|
|