Instructions
Look for a goat rescue in your area. You can find goat rescues by browsing online or by contacting your local county animal services, which should have a listing of local rescue organizations.
Check for goat breeders in your area if you can't find a rescue organization and you're committed to obtaining pygmy goats. The National Pygmy Goat Association offers a listing of goat breeders who specialize in pygmy goats.
Make sure the kid you're adopting is at least 8 weeks old. A younger goat needs to be bottle-fed, and it's best if the kid can be with her mother until ready to be weaned.
Ask about the goat's vaccinations and find out about his deworming schedule before you buy him. Request that the breeder provide written medical records. If the breeder can't do so, he's not the best person to obtain goats from.
Find out if the herd you're buying from is tested yearly for diseases like TB, brucellosis, Johne's disease and caseous lymphadenitis. These diseases can all affect the goat's quality of life and may be fatal. Keep in mind that if the breeder tests for all diseases, you may pay more for your goat.
Determine whether the goat is registered if you're interested in a pure bloodline. Additionally, some breeders may sell a goat as a pygmy-and then you'll find out you've adopted a full-size goat. Any size goat is lovable, but you need to make sure that you get what you paid for.
How to Buy Pygmy Goats
Pygmy goats, with their diminutive size and socialization, are ideal pet goats with relatively easy fencing options because they're so small. A pygmy goat can behave much like a pet dog as he follows you about your daily business on the farm.