Posted by Shirley Mcguire on April 30, 2001 at 15:30:53:
In Reply to: Re: pregnant...not by choice! posted by Stephanie on April 30, 2001 at 12:55:31:
I would like to know what kind of goat these are, are they one of the larger breeds? When I first got into goats I was shocked when I found that many breeders actually plan to breed at about 5 or 6 mo., so that the doe will be able to stretch to accommodate the larger babies. It also will do allot for temperament too. Does of the larger breeds are bred when they reach 70lbs. and age is often not an issue. Our first Saanen was purchased from an ADGA judge and she kidded for the first time at 10 months. She was also bred back to her father to increase the good traits he had throw in her. Inbreeding in animals is a very common and helpful practice in allot of cases. Most of the time it will magnify the good trait you have in the animal. It is after all how we ended up with all the different breeds of dogs, cats, horses, and goats. The were bred together for a common trait (usually shared between a family member) that was desired. such as short hair or color production. so don't panic just keep her well fed remembering that she not only needs to grow but also feed a baby.