health – Goats

August 14, 2019August 14, 2019

The 2009 National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) Goat Report

The National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) program unit of the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) conducts periodic nationwide studies on US livestock populations to assess current health and management practices. The latest NAHMS goat study was conducted in 2009; results are available at: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/nahms/goats/index.shtml.

Summaries and sub-reports of the 2009 study include:

Goat 2009: Part I: Reference of Goat Management Practices in the United States: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/nahms/goats/downloads/goat09/Goat09_dr_PartI_rev.pdf
Goat 2009: Part II: Reference of Goat Health and

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August 14, 2019August 14, 2019

How to Contact a Goat or Sheep Veterinarian

If at all possible, you should establish a valid veterinary-client-patient relationship with a local veterinarian. It’s recommended that the veterinarian visit your farm at least once a year to do a herd-wellness evaluation. This allows the veterinarian to know your herd’s management system and health needs. Such a relationship enables the veterinarian to respond quickly to emergency situations and allows the two of you to resolve minor health questions over the phone or e-mail ( Tips for working with your …

August 14, 2019August 14, 2019

Dairy Goat Management

goat

Herd Health Program for Dairy Goats

An effective animal health program is an essential part of a successful dairy goat management program. Good feeding and breeding will not result in maximum production if goats are not kept in good health.

Since each herd is different, you should work with a veterinarian to create a herd health plan. Keep good records for each animal regarding medications, vaccinations, dewormers, injuries, production, breeding, and culling. Use this information to plan your herd health …

August 14, 2019August 14, 2019

Goat Reproductive Failure Toxicological Factors

Toxicological Factors

Spanish Doe.

When feeds get wet/damp, molds can grow and produce toxins, or mycotoxins, that can lead to reproductive problems and failure. Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium are the most common toxins causing problems in stored feeds. In addition, there are molds and endophytes in forages that can also cause problems. Fescue toxicosis can results from endophyte (fungal)-infected tall fescue that make toxins such as ergot alkaloids, primarily ergovaline, that can delay onset of puberty, impair luteal function to …