Posted by Shawn Berry on January 28, 2001 at 09:36:20:
In Reply to: Castrating Bucks posted by StacyM on January 28, 2001 at 08:17:44:
Stacy,
I band the bucks when they are just a few days old. Make sure both testicles are down and get the band close to the body.
I bought a Lenk 200 disbudding iron last year from Caprine Supply and it does a good job for me.
I disbud as soon as I can feel the horn bud easily, usually 3-4 days. Press the iron down over
the bud and twist back and forth for about 5-8 seconds. Then you can take the cap off the bud and finish up.
It usually takes a few more seconds. When the iron ring is copper colored, you are done.
I burn the center of the ring also, just a little.
My son built a disbudding box last year for his 4-H project, it makes the job much easier.
I do this right before feeding time so they can have a bottle as soon as they are done. They will scream and make you feel terrible for doing this to them but after it's over they're fine!
Here is the link for Caprine Supply disbudding page, Hope this has helped.
http://www.caprinesupply.com/shop/kid_raising7.html
Shawn