1. Zoning -Are you zoned for livestock? Pygmy goats are considered “large animal” livestock and you must have county zoning to keep them on your property. |
Before deciding to buy a pygmy goat, there are a few things a potential buyer needs to think about.
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So you think you want a pygmy goat... |
2. Commitment – pygmy goats can live into their teens. They are herd animals and bond strongly with their owners, other pets, and of course, goats. They need proper feed and veterinary care. They may not be easy to rehome once they are past the cute kid stage. Velvet (on left) and Cherish (middle) are both over 8 years old. Both ladies have some arthritis and move a little more slowly, but they are definitely still herd queens! |
3. Housing & Safety -- Goats are prey animals and must be housed securely to keep any predators out. While, coyotes are common in San Diego County, and may snatch young kids, they usually leave the older goats alone. The biggest threat to pygmy goats is domestic dogs – your dogs, the neighbor dogs. They can and will attack your goats. Even, if the dogs are “good dogs,” they will often chase the goats and hurt them. The dog may be “playing,” but the goat doesn’t know that! A dog can run a goat to death. Or the goat can hurt itself trying to escape or jump through a fence. |
Pygmy goats need proper housing. They need a pen large enough for them to exercise and a suitable house for the weather. |
My property is entirely fenced with 6' chain link. My goat pens are inside that are and are made of 5' hog panel fencing. They also have run-in sheds or "dogloos" for protection from the weather and either shade trees or shade cloth. |
Cleo is talking some smack to the Weiner, but not all dogs will be so good-natured. |
EXCUSE OUR MESS... WE'RE STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION HERE! |