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Breeds
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Children can raise goats for a 4-H project or help on the family goat farm. Consider your purpose in raising goats. Different breeds have different uses. The American Dairy Goat Association recognizes six breeds of dairy goats, including Nubians, LaManchas and Alpines. Many people prefer goat's milk to cow's milk, and goat's milk can also provide cheese and buttermilk. Goat's milk can also be used for specialty products such as soaps and lotions. Other goat breeds, including the boer and the New Zealand kiko, are raised for their meat. These goats provide staples like steaks and sausages. If fiber is your end-product, angora and cashmere goats are the breeds to consider. The hairs from both breeds, mohair and cashmere, are prized for their softness and warmth. Children in 4-H can raise a variety of goat breeds. Some choose the smaller pygmy goats, which are often seen in petting zoos, while others choose to rear dairy or meat goats. Goats, particularly castrated males (called wethers"), can be trained to pull carts and/or carry packs.
Space
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Goats need plenty of space as well as shelter from the rain. No matter the breed or purpose, all goats need space. They are nomadic by nature. In fact, goat rearing has been done for thousands of years with nomadic peoples in different countries herding these creatures. Goats are also herd animals and need the companionship of other goats. Therefore, because goats are natural wanderers and need other goat companions, you will need a lot of space if you plan to raise goats. They need pasture with plenty of grass, woody plants and water, and they need shelter from the elements, especially from rain. They also need to be kept safe from roaming dogs; therefore, erect a sturdy, secure fence around their pasture and barn.
Care
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Goats need care from their owners and from a veterinarian. In addition to space, food, water and shelter, goats also need veterinary care and the guardianship of their owners. Like many livestock breeds, goats need their hooves trimmed, and they need vaccinations and wormings. Goats can contract tetanus, and they can be poisoned from eating the wrong plants. Therefore, ensure your goats cannot get into things such as azaleas and other ornamental or landscaping plants, and that they receive an annual tetanus vaccination. Goats need access to various minerals, such as salt.
Considerations
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Many factors should be considered before embarking upon raising goats. Before embarking on a goat-rearing venture, take into consideration several factors: the purpose or purposes of having goats and the breeds that fit those uses; pasture, barn, fencing and other space requirements; veterinary expenses; and your time and financial commitment. The idea of raising goats may be appealing, but there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration before embarking on such an endeavor.
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Project on the Rearing of Goats
People raise goats for many reasons, including milk, meat and fiber. Before embarking upon a goat project, consider a variety of factors, such as your purpose in raising them, how much space you have to rear goats, and if you and your family are able and available to care for the goats' needs.