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Why GOATS?
Getting Started
I first got interested in the Boer breed so
that the goats would have a dual purpose. Weed control was the
original intent, but I quickly decided that raising drug-free meat would
be desirable. Goat meat is the "most eaten" meat in the world.
I have discovered many recipes for goat meat that I enjoy.
In addition to
raising healthy drug-free ethical meat, I have also discovered the art of cheese-making.
Although, I generally raise meat type of goats, I discovered that one of
the percentage does is a
great milker and gave plenty of milk to feed my children and to make
cheese and keifer. Feta cheese has become our favorite, although we
have produced aged cheddar as well.
Current Breeding Program: Show Quality
Boers with Top Pedigrees I have improved my herd
dramatically and added three high quality bucks. All of our goats are registered
with ABGA. With my
experience of breeding horses I understood the necessity of producing top
quality offspring with proven bloodlines and sound conformation.
The three bucks here all are different styles. All have strong
show bloodlines but they have been chosen on their own merit as
individuals to continue to improve my herd. I will offer a
selection of high quality breeding stock to buyers and occasionally have
meat goats or show wethers for sale. I do not plan on offering any
intact buck kids for sale unless we have one that is extremely
exceptional.
Regarding conformation, I pay particular attention
to soundness of legs and feet. My ideal goat would resemble the
large, hardy South African goat that grazes over long distances and that
has a strong back and hind leg capable of allowing the goat to stand up
on its hind legs to reach higher browsing branches. The trend in
the U.S. show ring is to breed animals that can be posed beautifully but
that actually have shallow jaws, bad feet, a short hip, and an overly
straight hock. None of these characteristics are desirable and
U.S. breeders should consider the long range impact on the breed type.
I would like to see the successful show ring type to resemble a true
meat type with sound structure and optimal substance that can be raised
economically for its original purpose.
General Management
The goats at Ladybug Hill are raised on pasture
with shelter from rain and wind. They are supplemented with
a good quality goat feed and goat mineral in addition to being hayed in
the winter and wet months. I feed to maintain good condition but I do not
"push" the kids with overfeeding. I believe in raising livestock
in as natural a way as possible. I avoid medicated feeds and other
additives. Any goat that cannot maintain condition on my simple
feeding program is culled. I do not deworm on a schedule but based
on need. This practice selects for resistance to parasites, a highly
desirable quality in meat goats.
Unlike many goat breeders, my
photos presented here are only cropped and WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT
YOU GET!!! In addition, I can take
additional photos of any goat for serious buyers. |
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