Today we tattooed 13 goat kids and have started weaning about 1/2 of them. It is so sad, first hurting them with the tattooing and then separating them from their mothers. I can tell they are scared and do not know what is going on. We keep telling them it is part of growing up as a goat, but they are not listening. I feel like a big meany. The goats above are the ones being weaned and going to their new homes this weekend.
That’s why I decided to wean my lambs well AFTER banding the boys and putting in ear tags on all of them. I figured they need some “mommy time” when they are hurting.
In other news, my son announced he’s buying a goat next year, and want one to milk. Rick will never go for that, but I would love a little Nigerian!
Thanks Michelle! I should try to do that. The new homes are anxious for their new goats but I could have tattooed earlier. Nigerians make great milk 😉
poor little guys.at least they have each other, right? misery loves company!
Thanks Denise! That is what I thought, but they would rather have their moms.
I told my little ram lamb as I banded him that I was doing it for his benefit – if I didn’t he wouldn’t be able to stay here. It helped me…a little. He’s going to be a grey like his mama I think – all his dark areas have grey underneath. His sister is staying black – I thought for sure she’d be a miniature Pebbles, but I guess not (only in temperament).
Thanks Maureen! That is what I told Magner when we banded him. I am not sure it helped either of us. It sounds like you’ll have a variety of colors and temperaments 😉