This is the only Complete Guide to Raising Goats that you will need because this book covers everything you need .
● The 4 vital dimensions of goat husbandry—plus why goats make the best companions.
● Why goats are a smart economic choice for small farmers and why they make the perfect bridge to a sustainable future.
● 3 practical exercises that will help you select the right breed for your needs and preferences
● Techniques to create comfortable, safe housing for your goats, including the 6 essentials of an outdoor shelter
● All the tools you need to raise goats
● 7 techniques for feeding goats—from schedules to feeding for specific needs
● How to formulate a balanced, nutritious diet that is catered to your goats’ age and breed
● Guidelines for essential healthcare practices, including prevention measures and recognizing common health issues, ranging from parasites to hoof issues
● Step-by-step instructions for breeding, kidding, and caring for newborn goats
● Advanced topics—including organic and biodynamic goat raising, goat genetics, and advocacy, community, and sharing the joy of goat racing
● Strategies for turning goat raising into a profitable business—including advice on meat and fiber processing and dairy production
This is the only Complete Guide to Raising Goats that you will need because this book covers everything you need .
● The 4 vital dimensions of goat husbandry—plus why goats make the best companions.
● Why goats are a smart economic choice for small farmers and why they make the perfect bridge to a sustainable future.
● 3 practical exercises that will help you select the right breed for your needs and preferences
● Techniques to create comfortable, safe housing for your goats, including the 6 essentials of an outdoor shelter
● All the tools you need to raise goats
● 7 techniques for feeding goats—from schedules to feeding for specific needs
● How to formulate a balanced, nutritious diet that is catered to your goats’ age and breed
● Guidelines for essential healthcare practices, including prevention measures and recognizing common health issues, ranging from parasites to hoof issues
● Step-by-step instructions for breeding, kidding, and caring for newborn goats
● Advanced topics—including organic and biodynamic goat raising, goat genetics, and advocacy, community, and sharing the joy of goat racing
● Strategies for turning goat raising into a profitable business—including advice on meat and fiber processing and dairy production
“Goats are the quintessence of pragmatic survival,”
said Frank Kingdon-Ward, the great botanist and explorer. His words resonate with the very essence of goat husbandry. They're not merely about raising an animal; they're about embracing a lifestyle, understanding an age-old practice, and forming a bond with nature.
The Essence of Goat Husbandry
Goat husbandry isn't merely a task; it's an art and science combined. It's a calling that demands more than just a cursory understanding of animal behavior. It requires empathy, patience, and keen observation. It's about understanding the subtle signs, the unspoken language, the hidden messages that goats convey.
I still remember the first time I held a goat kid in my arms. The warmth, the innocent eyes, the soft bleating—it was a moment of connection. A moment that transcended the barriers of species and touched the core of existence. That's what goat husbandry is about. It's not just about feeding, sheltering, or milking. It's about a relationship that grows with every passing day.
The Historical Background
Goat husbandry isn't a recent phenomenon. It's as ancient as human civilization itself. Historians believe that goats were one of the first animals to be domesticated, around 10,000 years ago. They have been companions to nomads, farmers, and even kings.
Goats have provided sustenance, clothing, and companionship to generations. They have been symbols of prosperity, creativity, and survival. The tales of their contribution are not mere pages in history; they are living legacies that continue to inspire.
The Different Dimensions
Goat husbandry is multifaceted. It encompasses various dimensions, each with its unique challenges and rewards:
Dairy Production: From the creamy richness of milk to the delightful flavors of cheese, goats offer a culinary experience that is both nutritious and delicious.
Meat Production: Raising goats for meat is a practice that requires ethical considerations, careful planning, and respect for the animal.
Fiber Production: From the luxurious cashmere to the sturdy mohair, goats provide fibers that have clothed humanity with elegance and warmth.
Companionship: Beyond the commercial aspects, goats are wonderful companions. Their playful antics, intelligence, and affectionate nature make them perfect pets for those who understand their needs.
The Challenges and Joys
Goat husbandry isn't all roses. It comes with its share of thorns—unexpected illnesses, behavioral issues, birthing complications, and more. But the joys outweigh the challenges. The satisfaction of seeing a healthy herd, the pride in producing quality products, the happiness in sharing life with these wonderful creatures—it's a joy that words can hardly encompass.
Understanding Why Goats are a Great Choice
"Never underestimate a goat; it's not just about the beard, it's about resilience,"
a wise old goat farmer once said to me. Those words struck a chord and lingered in my mind, painting a vivid image of what goats represent. Goats aren't just another animal on the farm; they are a symbol of endurance, adaptability, and ingenuity. Let's explore why choosing goats can be an enriching experience.
The Many Faces of Goats
A Source of Nutrition: Goats provide us with nutrient-rich milk that's easier to digest than cow's milk. This milk can be transformed into a variety of dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and butter, each with its unique flavor and texture.
Meat Production: Goat meat, known as chevon, is a lean and flavorful alternative to beef or pork. It's a delicacy in many cultures and offers a fresh culinary experience.
Fiber Producers: Certain goat breeds are renowned for their luxurious fibers like cashmere and mohair. These fibers have clothed royalty and adorned fashion runways.
Environmental Stewards: Goats can graze on vegetation that many other animals can't digest. They help in controlling overgrowth and maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
A Joy to Behold: Goats are not just about utility. Their playful antics, their curious nature, and their affectionate behavior can bring joy to any farm.
The Economic Sense
Goats are often considered a smart economic choice for small farmers. Their adaptability to various climatic conditions, ability to thrive on less-than-optimal grazing lands, and lower maintenance costs make them a viable option for those looking to start a farming venture.
Health and Wellness
Did you know that goat milk is often called 'universal milk' because it can be consumed by those who are intolerant to other types of milk? It's not just about the taste; it's about the health benefits. Goats offer us food that's not only delicious but also nourishing.
A Companion and More
Goats can be more than a source of income or food; they can be friends. Spend a day with a goat, and you'll find a companion, a confidante, a playful friend who'll follow you around, listen to your tales, and maybe even answer with a gentle bleat.
Building a Sustainable Future
In an age where sustainability is not just a buzzword but a necessity, goats offer a way to balance our needs with nature's rhythm. They're not just survivors; they're thrivers, adapting to environments, making the most of what's available, and giving back in abundance.
Historical Overview of Goat Raising
"Goats have been our companions, providers, and teachers long before history was penned down."
These words resonate deeply, reflecting the profound connection between human civilization and goats. They have been at our side, feeding us, clothing us, and even guiding us in ways subtle and profound. Let's take a step back in time and uncover the rich tapestry of goat raising, a practice as ancient as humanity itself.
The Early Beginnings
Goats were among the first animals to be domesticated by humans. Evidence suggests that this relationship began around 10,000 years ago in the highlands of Western Iran. Imagine a world where survival was the paramount concern, and then visualize these hardy creatures providing sustenance and comfort. They were a lifeline, a symbol of resilience.
The Goat in Ancient Civilizations
Mesopotamia
In ancient Mesopotamia, goats were revered and considered sacred. They were associated with powerful deities and depicted in art and literature. Goats were not just animals; they were symbols of strength, fertility, and prosperity.
Ancient Egypt
In the land of the Pharaohs, goats were prized for their milk, meat, and hide. They were an integral part of the Egyptian diet and economy. The goats' unique ability to thrive in arid conditions made them invaluable.
Ancient Greece
The Greeks had a special relationship with goats. They were associated with gods and legends. The famous myth of the Golden Fleece involves a magical goat. In daily life, goats were essential for milk, cheese, and meat.
The Middle Ages
In the medieval period, goats continued to play a vital role in sustaining communities. They were a common sight on farms and in villages, providing nourishment and livelihood. Monasteries often kept goats for their milk and cheese.
The New World
When explorers set out to discover new lands, they took goats with them. Resilient and adaptable, goats were able to endure long voyages and thrive in new environments. They became a part of the agricultural landscape in the Americas, contributing to the growth of new societies.
Modern Times
In our modern world, goats continue to be a vital part of agriculture and culture. From small family farms to large commercial operations, goats are raised for various purposes, including dairy, meat, and fiber production.
They are also recognized for their environmental benefits, grazing on plants that other livestock might ignore, thereby contributing to sustainable land management.
A Reflection on the Past
What can we learn from this historical overview? Goats have been our companions in survival, our partners in growth, our symbols in culture, and our teachers in sustainability.
They have adapted with us, grown with us, and in many ways, shaped us. From the highlands of Iran to the bustling modern farms, the history of goat raising is a mirror to our own journey.
It's not just about the products they offer; it's about what they represent - resilience, adaptability, sustainability. It's about a relationship that has weathered the sands of time, a relationship that's not confined to economic transactions but reaches into the very core of our existence.
The Role of Goats in Sustainable Agriculture
"Small hooves make big impacts."
This saying rings true when we consider the role of goats in sustainable agriculture. Far from being mere providers of milk, meat, and fiber, goats have proven themselves to be vital players in the intricate dance of ecology and farming. In sustainable agriculture, every element has its purpose, and goats, with their unique characteristics and abilities, fit perfectly into this harmonious system. Let's explore how.
Grazing Masters: Goats as Natural Weed Controllers
Goats have a preference for eating woody plants, shrubs, and weeds that other livestock usually avoid. This natural tendency makes them excellent weed controllers. Why resort to chemicals and machinery when you can unleash a herd of goats to do the job?
Imagine a field overrun with invasive plants and brambles. Now picture a herd of goats moving through it, munching away, turning what was once a problem into a solution. They are not just eating; they are transforming the landscape, promoting the growth of desirable plants, and enhancing biodiversity.
Soil Health: The Goat Effect
The way goats graze and their light hooves have a positive impact on soil health. They don't just pull out grass; they nibble on a variety of plants, allowing grasses to grow. Their hooves are gentle on the soil, minimizing erosion.
Think about the soil as a living entity, teeming with microorganisms, nutrients, and potential. Goats nurture this entity, not by doing something extraordinary, but simply by being themselves. Their manure adds valuable nutrients back into the soil, completing a cycle that’s both simple and profound.
Water Conservation and Land Management
Goats require less water than many other livestock animals. They can thrive in arid conditions where water is scarce. In regions struggling with water availability, goats can be a responsible choice for farmers.
Additionally, their ability to graze on steep, uneven terrain can be leveraged for land management. Areas that are difficult to cultivate or prone to erosion can be maintained by goats, turning otherwise neglected lands into productive spaces.
A Partner in Mixed Farming Systems
Goats fit well into mixed farming systems where crops and different animals are raised together. They can be integrated with other livestock or crops without competing for resources. The synergy created in such a system enhances sustainability.
Consider a farm where goats, chickens, and vegetables coexist. The goats eat the weeds, the chickens take care of insects, and the vegetables grow without competition from unwanted plants. It's a harmonious relationship, where each part supports the others, creating a balanced ecosystem.
Addressing Climate Change: The Potential of Goats
Goats can be part of the solution to climate change. By reducing the need for chemical weed control and promoting soil health, they contribute to a farming system that's more resilient and less dependent on fossil fuels.
It's about seeing the bigger picture, where every action has a ripple effect. The way we raise goats, the way we integrate them into our farms, and the choices we make can either harm or heal the planet. With goats, we have an opportunity to choose the latter.
Exercises for the Aspiring Sustainable Goat Farmer
Analyze Your Land: Spend a day observing the land you wish to farm. Note the types of weeds, the quality of soil, and the availability of water. How could goats fit into this landscape?
Create a Grazing Plan: Develop a rotational grazing plan for your goats that takes into account their natural eating habits, the needs of the land, and the goals of your farm.
Build a Mixed Farming Model: Sketch out a plan for a mixed farming system that includes goats, other animals, and crops. Think about how each element can support the others.
Research and Reflect: Spend time researching sustainable goat farming practices and reflect on how you can implement them. Consider visiting a farm that practices sustainable goat raising to gain insights.
I am a country girl at heart. Eighteen years growing up in the rural surroundings of the English Cotswolds will do that to anyone. Books on farmyard creatures? Right up my street.
The Complete Guide to Goats by KC Kent does exactly what it says on the cover, providing would-be goat enthusiasts with a comprehensive guide on all elements of ownership, from the sustainable benefits and the importance selecting the right goat breed, to how to care for and make a commercial enterprise out of them. Across eleven chapters and nearly 160 pages, Kent's guidance leaves no stone unturned when it comes to would-be goat enthusiasts.
While this is a highly informative book, the layout and formatting of the guidance itself may form an accessibly blocker for some. Throughout this guide, there are no illustrative examples to support readers and the copy is presented in dense and varied fonts (in some places text appears to have a 1.5 line spacing, in other places single). The indentation of bullets, where used, is also too deep, resulting in copy filling up more space than is probably needed.
Another element that is crucially missing is a introductory biography of the author. There is a throwaway comment made halfway through the introduction of Kent having raised goats for many years, but there seems to be a missing link to add authenticity. To perhaps put it somewhat more bluntly, what makes Kent's guide better than the competition, more importantly still, how can readers trust it? It may be a bit more author background was needed in the initial introduction but as it stands the main concern around recommending this book is the lack of transparency that Kent as the right author to be issuing guidance on agricultural matters.
When it comes to The Complete Guide to Goats, the content is there, but it is the formatting of it, and the lack of author credentials, that lets the side down.
AEB Reviews