Frequently Asked Questions
What sort of Fencing do i need?
A minimum requirement would be 900mm hinge mesh fencing strained at the top and bottom. An electric stand off can be used as well if fences are not very strong. I like to use taller fencing for Bucks and when weaning kids. And smaller mesh netting for while they are young and smaller and they can also squeeze out of small gaps in the fence.
Stronger fencing will be required for Bucks and if breeding ,extra yards and more secure areas would be required.
How much room do i need?
Minimum suggested space for a couple of goats is around a 500 sqm paddock. Suburban or city backyards are not suitable.
What kind of Shelter should i have?
Goats hate the rain and can get really sick if forced to be out in it. They will need a three sided shelter large enough for them to sleep, eat, drink and walk around in for days at a time in the event of bad weather. A minimum of 2 sqm per goat undercover area is a good guide.
Can i get just one goat?
Goats are a herd animal, so they cannot be kept as only animals. I wont sell any goats by themselves unless other goats are already owned. Goats born on my property are used to being in a herd and will definitely be distressed and cry out for their friends if left alone.
What can i give them to play on?
Goats LOVE having things to climb and jump of! Supplying rocks, logs, slides, cable reels (with holes filled in) and trampolines are just some ideas that will keep them playing and exploring.
Anything can be a playground if you are a goat.
What is a PIC Number?
To own goats you will need a PIC number. it is easy and cheap to do a once of application. find out more here
https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/i-want-to/apply-for-a-property-identification-code
Will they mow my lawn?
Goats are browsers not grazers like sheep so they wont choose to eat your grass down to the ground. They prefer a variety of food such as longer grass, branches, weeds and shrubs. When kept in a paddock you should provide ad-lib hay along with minerals and fresh water.
What can/do goats Eat?
Goats are often known for eating anything. This is not true, while they may chew on something that will make them sick they are generally quite fussy eaters. They won’t eat hay or hard-feed once its touched the ground and been walked, pooed/wee’d on etc. They need hay nets or hay feeders and dishes to be fed in.
Goats are browsers, We offer our goats the following
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Ad-lib Meadow hay and additional lucern and oaten
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Daily goat mix with grain/pellets and chaff
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Biowormer with livamol
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selection of branches and access to pasture with long grass, weeds, shrub etc
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Fresh water
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Mineral and salt lick
What kind of treats can i feed them?
Apples, carrots, bread, sultanas, oats, leaves and branches. Absolutely no avocado or rhubarb as it is toxic and can be deadly if consumed by goats. We also feed Weatbix (dry) which make great snacks for goats
